Dean Anstice Harris instituted the Mountain Day tradition at Elmira College in October of 1918. The day is not a designated holiday, but rather a day in which classes are cancelled, allowing students, faculty, and staff to engage with each other in memorable and less formal ways.

In early years, students, faculty, and staff enjoyed a picnic lunch and hiked the same path that Mark Twain often did to Quarry Farm on East Hill. They also participated in games, planting projects, relaxing, and enjoying the colorful foliage. In recent years, Mountain Day has been more campus-oriented. After a number of morning activities, a picnic lunch is served to the entire campus community, and the remainder of the day is spent enjoying the fall weather, games, and outdoor events.

Dr. M. Anstice Harris served as Elmira College Dean from 1901 to 1930. She was highly accomplished and a popular figure among students both as Dean and as head of the English Department. Following the passing of Dr. Alexander MacKenzie in 1915, she served as acting President of EC and signed the diplomas for that year’s commencement. She was named Dean emeritus following her retirement, and was later honored with M. Anstice Harris Hall, built in 1950.