The Program & Activity Council (PAC)

PAC is responsible for organizing and executing a wide variety of events throughout the academic year, with the goal of providing entertainment and enrichment opportunities for the entire college community.

PAC is an important part of the Bennington College community, and its tireless efforts to provide high-quality programming and events for students, staff, and faculty are an integral part of the college experience. By fostering strong relationships and encouraging open dialogue, PAC helps to create a campus culture that is welcoming, supportive, and engaged.

Key Objectives

One of the key objectives of PAC is to foster strong relationships with students, staff, and faculty by providing inclusive programming that supports and nurtures the entire Bennington community. PAC achieves this by encouraging an open dialogue between its members and the wider student body, actively soliciting feedback and suggestions for new events and programming, and striving to make sure that all members of the community feel included and represented in the events that are offered.

In keeping with this objective, PAC places a particular emphasis on balancing the academic workload of students with opportunities for social engagement and community building. By providing a wide range of events and activities that are designed to bring students together and foster a sense of shared experience, PAC helps to create a vibrant and dynamic campus culture that encourages learning, growth, and exploration. At the start of each academic year, PAC holds elections to select its members for the upcoming year. The counsel is composed of four individuals representing all class levels, ranging from freshmen to seniors. By selecting members from across different academic years, PAC ensures a diversity of perspectives and experiences, allowing for a more comprehensive and inclusive approach to event planning and production.

What Does PAC Do?

Throughout the year, PAC hosts a diverse array of events that are designed to appeal to a broad cross-section of the Bennington community. These events might include concerts, film screenings, comedy nights, art exhibits, game nights, open mic nights, and much more. By offering such a wide variety of programming, PAC ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy, regardless of their interests or background.

In addition to its role in creating and producing a variety of events throughout the academic year, PAC also plays a significant part in organizing Sunfest—a highly anticipated day-long concert that takes place on the first Saturday of May each year. This event brings together talented artists and performers from all over the country to showcase their skills and entertain the Bennington College community. Set against the backdrop of Vermont's stunning spring landscape, Sunfest is a celebration of music, art, and community, providing a unique opportunity for students and faculty alike to come together and enjoy a day filled with music and fun in the sun.

Connect With Us

Email us at PAC@bennington.edu