Things just got a lot brighter for Colby-Sawyer College Athletics. Literally and figuratively.

New London voters approved amending the town’s zoning ordinance in the Institutional — Recreational zone on Tuesday, March 11, which will permit lighting on the Sally Shaw Veitch ’66 Track and Field, which is part of the Kelsey Athletic Campus.

Jeanette McKillop, Colby-Sawyer director of athletics, thanked New London residents for the vote of confidence and thanked Veitch for making this dream a reality.

Veitch, whose gift more than a decade ago enabled the construction of the track and multi-sport artificial turf field, has also generously pledged her support to have the lights installed. 

The lights are expected to be in place for fall 2025 contests. 

"This is a huge step forward for our institution, students and the community. The lights will not only enhance our training and competition opportunities, but we will also be able to host events that are more accessible to fans and families,” McKillop said. “This is a win for everyone involved, and we couldn't be more excited to see the positive impact it will have."

Forty percent of Colby-Sawyer students compete in intercollegiate athletics. Next year, with the addition of softball and men’s lacrosse, the college will sport 18 varsity squads.

The lighting will conform to International Dark Sky standards, which prescribe specially designed LED lights to minimize the impact on surrounding properties and wildlife.