Lives of Consequence
Alta Essom Boyer '36
A dedicated member of the William Smith Alumnae Association and contributor to the Pulteney Street Survey, Alta Essom Boyer is lauded for her career as a librarian and her extensive work with the Lodi Historical Society. Boyer celebrated her 102nd birthday in October with recognition from the Ithaca Times for her extensive contributions to the communities of Ovid and Lodi, N.Y.
After graduating from William Smith where she participated in Little Theatre, Boyer earned her master’s in library science from Syracuse University and a second master’s in medical research librarianship from SUNY Geneseo.
In addition to her work as a librarian, Boyer served as the chaplain and chief regent of her local Daughters of the American Revolution chapter. She also led efforts to restore the Lodi Historical Building, a church constructed by Boyer’s grandfather in 1852 and now houses the historical society. Boyer is credited with preserving countless historical documents and items for the town’s records since her childhood, leading the historical society to name her Lodi’s “guardian angel” in 2011.
Boyer received a New York Assembly resolution for her contributions in 2012, in addition to a plaque of recognition from President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama at her 99th birthday party, hosted by the Lodi community.
Throughout her life, Boyer has remained connected to William Smith, returning each year for the Alumnae Welcome. Her passion for William Smith and its history led to the revival of a tradition Boyer enjoyed just prior to her own Commencement: when soon-to-be graduates touch the “good luck tree” at the top of the William Smith Hill.