The Bates’ Best Award is presented to Vicky Wicks in appreciation of her remarkable five decades of dedication and service to Bates. Throughout her tenure as an esteemed alumna, Vicky has embodied the essence of leadership and volunteerism. Her extensive engagement, spanning various roles on the Board of Trustees, Alumni Council, Alumni in Admission, Bates Fund Executive Committee, and Reunion Committees, reflects her commitment to the college and her classmates.

Vicky serves as the Co-Chair of the Class of 1974’s 50th Reunion Gift Committee, where her guidance has galvanized her class toward unprecedented levels of giving. Her ability to activate and unite alumni inspires fellow volunteers and underscores her enduring legacy as a catalyst for positive change. Vicky’s dedication, coupled with her compassionate spirit and tireless efforts, exemplify the very essence of the Bates’ Best Award.

The Bates’ Best Award is presented to Win Brown for his leadership and dedication as the 35th Reunion Gift Chair for the Class of 1989. Throughout his tenure as a lead class agent and fundraising volunteer, Win has consistently demonstrated the highest standards of commitment and excellence, leaving an indelible mark on the Bates community.

Win’s pivotal role in shattering every fundraising record during his previous Reunion underscores his remarkable ability to inspire generosity and foster community spirit among his peers. As we celebrate Reunion together on campus, there is no better time to honor his outstanding contributions and enduring impact. Win’s service embodies the very heart of the Bates’ Best Award, serving as a beacon of inspiration for alumni across generations.

The Bates’ Best Award is presented to Arsalan Suhail for his ongoing dedication to engaging the Bates community. With a palpable love for Bates, Arsalan has served in many roles—as a lead agent, Alumni in Admission volunteer, Alumni Council member, and Reunion chair for several years—embodying the true spirit of volunteerism. His passion for Bates shines brightly through his tireless efforts to activate support during key fundraising moments and his diligent work to enhance attendance at Reunion events.

Arsalan’s commitment to fostering a sense of community among all alumni reflects his profound dedication to the Bates family. His outstanding service exemplifies the core values of the Bates’ Best Award, leaving a lasting impact on the college and inspiring others to follow in his footsteps.

Maya Seshan, as Class Officer and a Reunion Plus volunteer, you have worked to help your fellow Class of 2020 alumni to reconnect with Bates, following their interrupted senior year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. By encouraging event attendance at Back to Bates and the Graduation Celebration at Reunion Plus, you have proved to be a strong class leader who is well-respected in your class community. You provide an excellent example for other young alumni on getting involved with Bates after graduation and fostering relationships with your peers, and we look forward to continuing to work with you in the future.

Karen, as College Key President, an Alumni Council member, and a Reunion volunteer, you are known for bringing positive energy, big ideas, and boundless enthusiasm to your many roles at Bates. Recognition for our community has become a common theme in your work with the College Key. You led the effort to recognize alumni through the Distinguished Alumni in Residence program and continue to recognize retired staff and alumni through the Distinguished Service Award.

We are pleased to recognize your service and accomplishments through your many Bates volunteer commitments with a 2022 Bates’ Best Award.

Todd Zinn ’97 received his Bates’ Best awards at the Alumni Awards Ceremony during Back to Bates: Alumni Big Game on Saturday, October 15, 2022.

As 25th Reunion Gift Chair for the Class of 1997, Todd Zinn has worked tirelessly over the past few years to build engagement and philanthropy among his classmates. A valued class connector who acts out of pure love for the college, he emailed nearly every member of his class to engage with them and encourage participation, and even screen-shotted alumni “thank yous” from the Great Day to Be a Bobcat livestream to share with his class and recognize their contributions. With his fellow gift chairs, Todd energized a robust group of committee members to make this a milestone year for philanthropy, and the Class of 1997 is now poised to reach a class-record level of participation. For his energy, enthusiasm, and passion, we are pleased to recognize Todd as one of Bates’ Best for 2022.

Heather Beebe ’85 received his Bates’ Best awards at the Alumni Awards Ceremony during Back to Bates: Alumni Big Game on Saturday, October 15, 2022.

As lead class agent for 1985, Heather Beebe has been a fantastic volunteer and ambassador for Bates, regularly going above and beyond, and providing thoughtful leadership in every scenario. In the last year, she has helped to organize two additional virtual BobChat events, bringing the total to four BobChats programs since 2021, and managed a project for lapsed donors, including hand-written notes to each that garnered five gifts from classmates who had not engaged previously. Not only has Heather’s class work been exemplary, but she is also a highly engaged alumna, a proud Bates parent to a class of 2020 graduate, and a current member of the College Key.  For these contributions, we are pleased to recognize her as one of Bates’ Best for 2022.

Wayne Loosigian ’72 received his Bates’ Best awards at the Alumni Awards Ceremony during Back to Bates: Alumni Big Game on Saturday, October 15, 2022.

As 50th Reunion Gift Chair and Class President for 1972 during the 50th Reunion year, Wayne Loosigian has demonstrated skillful stewardship and passion for Bates that inspires others to get involved. Thanks to his dedication and thoughtful leadership, the 50th Reunion Gift Committee increased tremendously in size and the planned giving work was elevated throughout the class, helping his class to surpass both their dollar and donor goals. The Bates Staff has come to know Wayne as a reliable resource for fundraising strategy as well. He took his commitment to the next level by hand-signing each class solicitation letter and spearheading close to 100 direct solicitations, putting action behind the message he shared with his class about the importance of giving to the college. 

Jodi Kopke ’96 and Jason Ryan ’96 received their Bates’ Best awards virtually in 2021.

Jodi Kopke and Jason Ryan are the formidable duo co-leading the fundraising for the 25th Reunion of the Class of 1996. Thanks in large part to Jodi and Jason’s tireless efforts, the Class of 1996 nearly doubled their previous record for giving. Jodi and Jason overcame the barriers of remote organizing with aplomb, their interactions with classmates marked by an infectious enthusiasm and warmth. Through outstanding philanthropic leadership, done for the benefit of their class, Jodi and Jason have proved themselves to be among Bates’ Best. 

Chuck James ’78 received their Bates’ Best awards virtually in 2021.

For years now, Chuck James has been a wonderful and consistent source of support for the entire Bates community, from students to alumni. The fruits of Chuck’s deep care and substantial effort are manifold: He was a leader in raising money for the Kurt Gelfand Scholarship, an award honoring his friend and classmate that will be a resource for generations of students to come. The philanthropic process was a much-appreciated cathartic opportunity for members of his class to reconnect and reminisce. 

Chuck’s presence is also warmly felt through his involvement with the Benjamin Mays Black Alumni Society, as well as through the mentorship he provides to students of color on campus and his contributions to the Purposeful Work program. It is without a doubt that Chuck James stands as one of Bates’ Best, an aspirational figure dedicated to the betterment of his peers. 

Terry Welch ’83 received their Bates’ Best awards virtually in 2021.

Terry Welch is an invaluable member of the Bates Class of 1983 and the Bates Community at large, a model class agent with a history of generous donations to the Bates Fund and a thoughtful leader in upping his class’s engagement towards fundraising. With admirable commitment and heartfelt effort, Terry has recruited new class agents and re-energized alumni who were previously less involved, proving to be a crucial player in the advancement of the goals of the Bates Fund and Bates in general. Anyone who works with Terry will be fortunate for his partnership, just as we here at Bates have been fortunate for his stellar contributions to our community. He is truly one of Bates’ Best. 

Jerry Donahoe ’82 received their Bates’ Best awards virtually in 2021.

It’s hard to say what Jerry loves more: Bates College or the outdoors. Fortunately, over the past forty years, he’s been able to combine these two great loves into one true passion in his work as a Bates volunteer. He has been a regular fixture at almost every Bates event in Washington DC, and in many of the past fifteen years, he organized an annual fall hike for Bates alumni in the District. Jerry has returned to campus for almost every Reunion, and when I say every Reunion, I mean every single one — not just the ones for his class. He’s written articles in support of the Bates Dance Festival and the Morse Mountain Conservancy, interviewed prospective students, supported Bates as a class officer and class agent, and done everything possible to make new people feel at home in any space he occupies — whether that’s the Alumni Council, Washington DC, or on hiking and canoeing trips for the Bates Outing Club. 

Jerry Donahoe, you truly exemplify Bates values of service to your community and the world at large, and we are pleased to present you with the 2021 Bates Best Award.

Robert Deininger ’90 received their Bates’ Best awards virtually in December 2020.

According to nominator Amy Jefferson, Bob Deininger  “goes above and beyond” for Bates. An Alumni in Admissions volunteer for more than 20 years, a class agent for eight years, a job shadow sponsor, and the co-chair of his 30th Reunion, we can always count on Bob to do more and go farther. For example, in 2020, an unquestionably difficult fundraising climate, Bob led the class of 1990 to its most successful fundraising year to date, surpassing their goal of $130,000 raised. 

He’s dedicated, affable, effective, and always willing to do what needs to be done, often stepping in when others have fallen short. He’s a great motivator of his fellow volunteers, an inventive brainstormer looking to come up with new ideas and strategies, and a true leader who lives and breathes Bates and inspires those around him to follow his lead, especially in honor of their Reunion. For all these reasons and more, Bob is undoubtedly one of Bates Best.

Flora Rice- Chan ’11 received their Bates’ Best awards virtually in December 2020.

Since her time as a student, Flora Rice-Chan has understood the value of higher education and the importance of financial aid. Now working in financial aid and admissions at Harvard University, she recognizes how vital it is for Bobcats to give back to Bates, to ensure that future students receive a great education and have access to important resources. 

Flora has served on the Senior GIft Committee, the Reunion Gift Committee, and been deeply engaged as a class agent. She currently serves on the executive committee of the College Key, where she helps strengthen the relationship between College Key members and Bates. She is always looking for ways Bates and the Key can create strong student and alumni experiences through storytelling, and played a key role in organizing the visit from this year’s Distinguished Alumna in Residence, Jared Golden ‘11. For all this and more, Flora is undoubtedly one of Bates Best.

Dean “Pete” Skelley ’60 received their Bates’ Best awards virtually in December 2020.

Dean Skelley, known as “Pete” among his classmates from the Class of 1960, has been a committed volunteer for Bates for six decades. As class president and Reunion chair, he helps connect his classmates with each other and with Bates, and ensures they always feel included and informed about what’s going on at Bates now. 

In his wide-ranging volunteer work, Pete helps build strong relationships between his classmates and Bates which helps keep Bates strong through consistent giving. He also stays involved with current and future Bates students as an Alumni in Admissions volunteer. 

This year, Pete worked to bring his class closer by helping create a 60th Reunion yearbook with fellow volunteers Louise Davidson and Nan Walsh. At a time when the class could not gather together on campus as planned, this effort gave them a needed point of connection for friends, and a way to honor classmates who have passed.

In June, Pete participated in virtual Reunion programming when he took part in a Bobcats on the Front Lines panel, sharing his experience and expertise as the manager of several labs in Texas working to manage testing for COVID-19. Whether we call him Dean or Pete, he is truly one of Bates’ Best.

Haley Keegan ’15 received their Bates’ Best awards virtually in December 2020.

Together with Kai Payne, Haley has been an unbelievable ambassador for the Class of 2015, and a critical part of raising her class’ awareness about the Bates Fund.

During her time at Bates, she started as a student caller, rose to student calling supervisor, and eventually became co-chair of the senior gift committee. She and Kai have done amazing work keeping their classmates connected to each other and bringing feedback—whether praise or critique—back to Bates to help us do better outreach and keeping us informed of the mood of young alums.  She served on the Reunion gift committee for the fifth Reunion, as a co-chair with Kai Payne, which ended up being virtual. She has also taken a role within the Schuler Task Force, working with alumni from outside of her class year and advancing the goals of the Initiative. For all of these reasons and more, we are pleased to honor Haley as one of Bates Best.

Kai Payne ’15 received their Bates’ Best awards virtually in December 2020.

Along with Haley Keegan, Kai Payne is a wonderful example of a young, engaged alumnus who works hard to keep their classmates connected to Bates. During his time as a student at Bates, he worked as a student caller, student calling supervisor, and eventually co-chair of the senior gift committee. His stalwart volunteerism has continued after graduation and even as he attends business school and navigates the challenges of COVID-19. Kai played a huge role in re-engaging the Class of 2015 with the college post-graduation. He and Haley have been willing to have important, sometimes challenging, discussions with their classmates about the Bates Fund and why it’s so important for young alumni to support the college. He and Haley were co-chairs of the Reunion gift committee for the class’ fifth Reunion in 2020, a particularly challenging role in that unusual year. 

Kai is able to connect members of the class of 2015 to each other, and to bring their perspectives back to the college to ensure we’re responding to their concerns and engaging them on their terms. For his continued commitment to Bates, we honor Kai as one of Bates Best.

Cappie Fay P’21, P’24 received their Bates’ Best awards virtually in December 2020.

One of our staunchest supporters and volunteers on the West Coast, Cappie is always willing to do whatever she can to help Bates and to keep Bates alums, parents, and students connected with the life of the college. She has hosted and sponsored several events—welcome receptions for incoming parents, breakfasts with President Spencer, events with Dean of Admission Leigh Weisenburger, to name a few—that have helped create a thriving Bates community in San Francisco. 

When not hosting events, Cappie is making calls, sending emails, and doing whatever she can to keep people connected and engaged. Whenever she returns to campus, she makes sure to gather the San Francisco families together so they can connect and build stronger networks when they return to the West Coast. Nominator Erin Brown says, “When meeting families and alums in the SF area, they almost all mention that they already know Cappie.” 

Beyond her volunteer support, she is also a loyal supporter of the Bates Fund. For all of these reasons and more, we are proud to honor Cappie Fay as one of Bates Best.

Catherine Djang ’13

Catherine Djang ’13 received their Bates’ Best awards during Back to Bates Weekend 2019.

Cat, you set the gold standard for volunteer leadership. Your tireless work on behalf of Bates is remarkable – and your enthusiasm is infectious. Despite the demands of a busy career in law, you’ve managed to stay actively engaged in numerous efforts supporting Bates. In the six years since you graduated, you have served on the Alumni Council as co-chair of the Virtual and Volunteer Engagement committee, as an Alumni in Admission representative, as a member of the New York Network Steering Committee Chair, and as a Class Agent.

You are known as a passionate and eloquent advocate for the college, inspiring classmates to reconnect with Bates by donating time and resources. We are grateful for your commitment to fostering engagement in meaningful ways, such as the faculty panel on the 2018 midterm elections, or the summer social networking reception that you coordinated. Whatever the opportunity, you take charge and gracefully lead the way. Whatever needs to be done, you do it: recruit volunteers, introduce speakers, make remarks at an event – you throw yourself into the work and motivate others to do the same.

A colleague recently shared this insight: “whether it’s regional programming in New York City, connecting with fellow BOLD alumni, or engaging alumni groups by enhancing Bates’ virtual offerings, Cat brings energy and creative thinking to the table. She has been an invaluable partner.”

Cat, you have made a mark on the Bates alumni community. We thank you for all you do in support of alumni and the college. You are truly one of Bates’ Best.

Peter Post ’58, P’82, P’87, GP ’18

Peter Post ’58, P’82, P’87, GP ’18 received their Bates’ Best awards during Back to Bates Weekend 2019.

Peter, you have been a loyal and dedicated Bates volunteer for many years. Your leadership roles include serving as a Class Agent, an Alumni Class Officer, a member of the 60th Reunion Committee, a volunteer for Friends of Bates Athletics, and as a member of the Alumni Council member from 1976 to 1980. You’ve generously taken on just about every possible volunteer role for our beloved alma mater.

Your tireless fundraising efforts on behalf of the College have been inspiring. You go above and beyond, reaching out to each classmate who has made a gift, asking for insights as to why they support the college and how they might wish to stay connected. You keep your classmates informed about news from campus – and you do so with a discipline that is awe-inspiring. You have even been spotted doing your class agent work while visiting campus – making calls and writing personal notes from Lane Hall. In addition to this dedicated outreach, you’ve stayed involved with Bates Athletics, as reflected in your encyclopedic knowledge of the teams and players.

Your roots at Bates run deep. Many family members are Batesies, including your wife Jane ’58, your brother Garret ’63, your son Benjamin ’87, your daughter Debra ’82, and most recently your grandson Tyler Class of 2018.

There simply aren’t many alumni like you, Peter. We are deeply grateful for your loyalty and commitment to Bates these past 41 years. On behalf of everyone at Bates, and the many alumni you have cared for and inspired, we thank you. You are truly one of Bates’ Best.

Jack DeGange ’59

Jack DeGange ’59 received their Bates’ Best awards during Reunion Weekend 2019.

Jack, you have been a dedicated volunteer for many years, up through and including your current service as 60th Reunion Gift Chair and co-secretary for your class. Over the past ten years, you have volunteered as a class officer and class agent and interviewed prospective students for the Office of Admission. You have generously provided job shadow opportunities for Bates students interested in communications, your own area of expertise.

Jack, you often recall how you started college with the Class of 1958 but ended up graduating with the Class of 1959 as a transplant. You have taken on an important leadership role with your “adopted” class. This year, you created a special 60th reunion memories book, a project that went above and beyond the call of duty.

You are thoughtful and kind and care deeply for the well-being of your classmates. Your warm personality and sense of humor helps bring people together in service to the college, and for this we are very grateful. Jack, you are truly one of Bates’ Best.

Dwight W. Harvie ’54 & Jonas Klein ’54

Dwight W. Harvie ’54 & Jonas Klein ’54 received their Bates’ Best awards during Reunion Weekend 2019.

Dwight and Jonas, you have a combined thirty years of service to Bates as class agents. Dwight, you have been the Class of 1954 president for eight years. Jonas, you have served as secretary for twenty-three. Together, you have been a dynamic team, creating novel ways to keep your classmates informed and engaged. For countless years, you have partnered on clever letters ranging from the traditional “call-for-news” communications to fun and experimental class surveys.

Dwight, you generously offered to volunteer as 65th Reunion Gift Chair. And Jonas, you took on the task of Reunion Social Chair. Together, you have been remarkable community-builders, always striving to make all members of your class feel welcome and celebrated. You are classmates and friends whose personalities and skills complement one another perfectly. As individuals and as a team, you have gone above and beyond for Bates.

Dwight and Jonas, we thank you for your long and loyal service to the college and alumni. We are honored to recognize you both as Bates’ Best.

John Harvey ’09

John Harvey ’09 received their Bates’ Best awards during Reunion Weekend 2019.

John, your enthusiasm and energy for all things Bates is infectious. You have been a dedicated class agent for three years and have helped lead the charge as Reunion Gift Committee Chair this year for your class’s Tenth Reunion. We are thrilled that you have agreed to stay on as a lead agent post-Reunion.

You have been an ideal volunteer, always eager to contribute to fundraising and alumni engagement efforts on behalf of the college. We appreciate how you regularly keep in touch with classmates and motivate them to give back to Bates, leading by example by making Bates your own philanthropic priority. As a former staff member in the Bates Office of Advancement, and now as the Director of Alumni Relations and Engagement at Cheverus High School, you bring both professionalism and personal experience to your many roles in support of the college.

John, thank you for the many ways you have shared your enthusiasm and affection for the college and its alumni. We appreciate your loyal service and are pleased to recognize you as one of Bates’ Best.

Alicia Hunter Warner ’94

Alicia Hunter Warner ’94 received their Bates’ Best awards during Reunion Weekend 2019.

Alicia, you are a remarkable volunteer for the Alumni Council, traveling all the way from your home in Atlanta to Lewiston three times each year to give back to Bates. In Atlanta, you have planned Bates Days of Service for the last few years and led volunteer efforts for regional Bates programs. You have served tirelessly on the Second Decade Engagement and Event Attendance and Participation committees. We appreciate your dedication and impact as part of the Bates Alumni Mosaic engagement committee, which—in partnership with the Office of Equity and Diversity—strives to make connections and build community among alumni from underrepresented groups.

Through the Alumni Council award process, you have helped the college recognize and celebrate alumni and their distinguished service to Bates. You have also gone out of your way to connect with and give guidance to students on campus, offering advice and networking opportunities—especially for those interested in public health, your own area of expertise.

Alicia, you consistently offer new and thoughtful perspectives and ask questions that lead discussions in meaningful directions. We appreciate and value your voice on the Alumni Council. You have made Bates a priority in so many ways and we are pleased to recognize you as one of Bates’ Best.

Michael F. Nolan ’69, P’94

Michael F. Nolan ’69 P’94 received their Bates’ Best awards during Reunion Weekend 2019.

Mike, you are a devoted Bates alumnus and volunteer. As the 50th Reunion Gift Chair, you have modeled the importance of giving back and leaving a legacy for future generations. Your creative fundraising efforts and ability to motivate others have resulted in your class more than doubling the amount raised for the Bates Fund as compared to previous years.

As a former Bobcat football player, you have also been incredibly influential to the Friends of Bates Athletics and one of the biggest supporters of Bates Football. Along with your classmate, Steve Brown, you helped create the popular Annual Football Golf Outing 16 years ago. We are pleased that this year, your teammates will be interviewed about your 1968 season, one of the greatest in Bates football history.

Mike, you are always willing to tell memorable stories about your time on campus and spread Bobcat pride. Bates has been the fortunate beneficiary of your unwavering determination to succeed in all that you undertake. Your loyalty to the college and its alumni runs deep, and you truly exemplify what it means to be one of Bates’ Best.

David W. Longdon III ’14

David W. London III ’14 received their Bates’ Best awards during Reunion Weekend 2019.

David, you have truly gone above and beyond for Bates, both as a BOLD (Bobcat of the Last Decade) Trustee and as a Special Gifts Chair for the Class of 2014’s fifth Reunion.

You have also taken a lead role in the Schuler Initiative, helping Bates achieve stronger engagement with young alumni. You understand and value how, through engagement and philanthropy, individuals can make an impact about issues they care about, and you seek to spread this message among your peers. You have led regional young alumni seminars focused on developing strategies to increase participation in the Bates Fund while communicating the importance of these gifts to the college. Projects like the “Bates Beat” newsletters that you and your fellow BOLD Trustee Emma Sprague ’10 have spearheaded are playing a crucial role in keeping our youngest alumni informed about and engaged with Bates.

David, we thank you for your commitment to engaging young alumni in support of Bates. The community that you have helped build for this alumni cohort is tremendously important. We are deeply grateful for all that you have done and continue to do for the college. You are truly one of Bates’ Best.

Missy Moreland P’19

Missy Moreland P’19 received their Bates’ Best awards in 2018 during Back to Bates: Homecoming and Family Weekend.

Missy, you are the definition of a “Bobcat superfan” and a dedicated Bates parent. During your son Ned’s time on campus, you’ve been “all in” for Bates—sharing your experience with prospective students and families at every available opportunity. Leaning on your extensive background in college counseling, you’ve welcomed new families to Bates by warmly and empathetically answering their questions, and assuaging their concerns. From making personal welcome calls to incoming Bates families, to volunteering on the Parents Fund committee, and speaking to admitted students, you have helped set the tone as families begin their journey at Bates.

As Ned enjoys his last year on campus and begins to think about life beyond Bates, we share in your and Rich’s excitement for the opportunities that lie ahead. We know that your relationship with the college will continue to evolve and grow as you transition from the role of parents of a Bates student to parents of a Bates alumnus.

Missy, thank you for all you have done and continue to do for the college. You are truly one of
Bates’ Best.

Jen Crawford ’01

Jen Crawford ’01 received their Bates’ Best awards in 2018 during Back to Bates: Homecoming and Family Weekend.

Jen, it’s no stretch to say that you are among the Bates’ most dedicated volunteers. Through your service on the Alumni Council over the past three years, and now as its Vice President, you’ve played an important role in deepening alumni engagement with the college. Specifically, your work on the governance subcommittee has helped council leadership communicate and connect with the broader alumni association. Your thoughtful recruitment of new members has brought rich, diverse perspectives and voices to the council. And at regional and campaign events, you’ve served as a bridge between alumni who’ve recently graduated and those more established—helping alumni realize the power of the Bates alumni network.

In addition, you’ve been a steady leader for the Class of 2001, having served as a longtime class agent, and on the committee for every one of your reunions. Fellow classmate Jennifer Carleton describes you as, “a quintessential Batesie who gives generously and humbly.” We could not agree more with that assessment.

Thank you Jen, for all you have done and continue to do for the college. You are truly one of Bates’ Best.

Cynthia Kalber Nordstrom ’62, P’93, P’03

Cynthia Kalber Nordstrom ’62, P’93, P’03 received their Bates’ Best awards in 2018 during Back to Bates: Homecoming and Family Weekend.

Our final Bates’ Best award recipient this evening is Cynthia Kalber Nordstrom, Class of 1962, and parent of alumni of the Classes of 1993 and 2003. Cindy, could you please join me up front?

Cindy, as secretary of your class for the past twelve years, you’ve played an instrumental role in keeping classmates connected to each other and to the college. Through your own personal outreach and creative communications, you’ve gone above and beyond to evoke warm memories of Bates and the lifelong relationships forged on campus. Leading up to your 50th Reunion in 2017, you crafted a biweekly email newsletter titled, “50 Years Ago Today”— an impressive compilation of headlines and photos from the Bates Student published on that day in 1962. These efforts have undoubtedly had a marked impact on the Class of 1962’s engagement with Bates.

In speaking with your peers, it is clear you are a well-loved and admired leader and friend. Fellow member of the Class of 1962 Ed Wilson was quick to note that he, and many others, are grateful for your efforts and proud to call you a classmate.

Cindy, thank you for all you have done and continue to do for the college. You are truly one of Bates’ Best.

Liz Murphy ’08 and Jon Blanchard ’08

Liz Murphy ’08 and Jon Blanchard ’08 received their Bates’ Best awards in 2018 during Reunion Weekend.

Liz and Jon, you are what we might refer to as a young alumni “dream team.” You’ve been champions of fundraising for Bates since graduation, and in particular this past year serving on the Bates Fund Executive Committee. You both care deeply about how your class performs, serving as class agents for the last five years and as volunteers for your 10^th Reunion committee, for which Liz is co-chair. And your pride in Bates extends to athletics and alumni engagement, where you’ve helped boost attendance at numerous college events in Boston. Jon, you’ve mentored Bates interns at your company, one of whom was so motivated by your leadership that he now serves as a young alum member of the Bates Fund Executive Committee.

Celebrating your 10^th Reunion, you’re at a unique point in your alumni journey. You are transitioning out of BOLD and into a second decade that will provide new opportunities — and challenges — for engagement with the college. We know you will shepherd your class through this important transition, and that your continued leadership and advocacy will be central to 2008’s future successes.

Thank you, Liz and Jon, for all that you have done and continue to do for the college. You are truly two of Bates’ Best.

Nancy J. Hohmann ’68, P’97

Nancy J. Hohmann ’68, P’97 received their Bates’ Best awards in 2018 during Reunion Weekend.

Nancy, as chair of your 50^th Reunion yearbook committee, you have played an integral role in helping your classmates reconnect with the college. You recognized their desire to better understand today’s Bates students, and incorporated a “then and now” section featuring the perspectives of current students juxtaposed with your classmates’ memories from the 1960s. You recruited and collected over 130 submissions for the yearbook, and helped with Reunion planning and fundraising. You have already taken the initiative to connect with volunteers in the Class of 1969 to share your experiences so that they, too, can be successful in their efforts. You bring a spirit of generosity to everything you do. We are grateful for your energy, drive, and passion for Bates.

Nancy, thank you for all that you have done and continue to do for the college. You are truly one of Bates’ Best.

Jason Hanley ’93 and Lauren K. Fine ’93

Jason Hanley ’93 and Lauren K. Fine ’93 received their Bates’ Best awards in 2018 during Reunion Weekend.

Jason and Lauren, as co-chairs of your Reunion committee this year, you have set a high bar for 25^th reunion classes to come. Thanks to your open and collaborative style of leadership, you reached a wide array of affinity groups from your class and connected them to one another and to the college. When you heard from a classmate that she wanted to receive news but was not on social media, you took it upon yourself, Lauren, to create and send weekly e-newsletters to your class. You have both served as gift committee members and championed your class’ fundraising efforts, in addition to social planning and recruiting classmates to attend Reunion. Your hard work has paid off. This year, the Class of 1993 has shattered the previous record for 25^th Reunion attendance of 24 percent. Over 32 percent of your classmates are here on campus this weekend. This is a huge accomplishment. The Class of ’93 is now the class to beat.

Jason Hanley and Lauren Fine, thank you for all that you have done and continue to do for the college. You are truly two of Bates’ Best.

Michael A. Ferrari ’98

Michael A. Ferrari ’98 received their Bates’ Best awards in 2018 during Reunion Weekend.

Mike, I can honestly say that your fondness for and dedication to Bates knows no bounds. During your time at Bates, you were involved with your class’ senior gift campaign, and we’re so grateful that you’ve remained engaged ever since. You helped select the next generation of Bobcats as an Alumni-in-Admissions interviewer, and served on your 5^th, 10^th, 15^th, and most recently 20^th Reunion committees.

This year, as Co-Chair of 1998’s Reunion committee, you’ve worked tirelessly to connect with and encourage your fellow alumni to give to Bates, eagerly taking on additional assignments to help your class reach its goals. And you didn’t stop there. In March, you were a driving force for Great Day to be a Bobcat, where your outreach to peers garnered the most donations of any alumni volunteer. Great Day would not have been nearly as successful without your enthusiasm and persistence. You are a leader and an advocate for Bates, and we look forward to your continued strategic partnership in the future.

Mike, thank you for all that you have done and continue to do for the college. You are truly
one of Bates’ Best.

George E. Stone, Jr. ’63 and Dorothy Selden Stone ’63, P’90

George E. Stone, Jr. ’63 and Dorothy Selden Stone ’63, P’90 received their Bates’ Best awards in 2018 during Reunion Weekend.

George and Dottie, you have been described by your classmates as the “heart and soul of Reunion planning.” You’ve taken the initiative to send communications to classmates, and also educated your peers about retirement tax laws and the opportunities they present for giving to Bates. For Great Day to be a Bobcat you and another classmate put forth a match which you generously opened to all classes of the 1960s, helping to boost participation and fundraising for this important decade. George, you also stepped into the co-chair role for your 55^th Reunion this year, and have been a thoughtful, reliable leader for your class. You are both beloved by your peers and it is evident to all of us that many of them have stepped up for Bates because of the two of you.

George and Dottie, thank you for all that you have done and continue to do for the college.
You are truly two of Bates’ Best.

Ken Snow ’62 

Ken Snow ’62 received their Bates’ Best awards on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017, during Back to Bates: Homecoming & Family Weekend.

In acknowledging Ken Snow, there are two important rubrics to consider: what he has accomplished for Bates and how he has gone about it. For nearly 30 years, Ken has been a class agent or lead class agent for the Class of 1962. In recognition for his service to the college, including 17 years as a career advisor for the BCDC, three years on the Alumni Council, and a year as recording secretary of the College Key, Bates wisely honored him with the Alumni Community Service Award. In the midst of all that, Ken also found time — 17 years to be exact — to serve the Office of Admission as an alumni interviewer. For helping encourage the best and brightest high school students to choose Bates, he received the college’s Alumni in Admission Award.

Just as important is how Ken has conducted his service to Bates. The many alumni who nominated him said he leads with a genuine spirit that reflects a love of the college and Bates alumni. He cares deeply about everyone and takes a thoughtful approach to his outreach to classmates. He is a joy to work alongside, dedicated to the success of his class, and maintains a positive, grateful demeanor throughout any project.

Ken, thank you for your loyal service, your personal philanthropy to Bates, and your deep affection for the college and all alumni. Congratulations — you are one of Bates’ Best.

Jeanmarie Hester Cooper ’85, P’19, and Colin Cooper P’19

Jeanmarie Hester Cooper ’85, P’19, and Colin Cooper P’19 received their Bates’ Best awards on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017, during Back to Bates: Homecoming & Family Weekend.

Jeanmarie and Colin, we have much to thank you for this evening. As co-chairs of the Parents Executive Council, you have made the college a philanthropic priority and modeled the importance of volunteerism for other Bates parents and alumni. As a result of your personal outreach, 81 families joined the PEC and made gifts totaling $738,000 to the Parents Fund — more than half of all annual giving from Bates parents. You have also graciously opened your home in Guilford to welcome new families to the Bates community in Connecticut. Whether you are cheering your son, Eli, Class of 2019, and his lacrosse teammates at home and away games, encouraging the Class of 1985 to make special Reunion-year gifts, or serving as career advisors for the BCDC, you always go the extra mile to support the college and the Bates community.

Thank you, Jeanmarie and Colin, for all you have done and continue to do for Bates. Congratulations, you are truly two of Bates’ Best.

Michael F. Hogan ’85

Michael F. Hogan ’85 received their Bates’ Best awards on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017, during Back to Bates: Homecoming & Family Weekend.

Mike, it’s no stretch to say that you are among the college’s most active volunteers, coast to coast. Through your involvement in the Bay Area Bates Network, you helped coordinate a volunteer leadership seminar to ensure a splendid turnout for the San Francisco Campaign launch event. As a member of the Alumni Council, you were one of an intrepid few to attend all three Campaign launch events in Boston, New York City, and San Francisco. Through your business travels as senior vice president for Charles Schwab in San Francisco, you make yourself available to meet with Bates alumni across the country, keeping them connected to their alma mater. And by making Bates a philanthropic priority, you have provided students with financial aid support so that they can take advantage of a Bates education.

Thank you, Mike, for all you have done and continue to do for the college. Congratulations, you are truly one of Bates’ Best.

Tracy O’Mara Peacock ’94

Tracy O’Mary Peacock ’94 received their Bates’ Best awards on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017, during Back to Bates: Homecoming & Family Weekend.

Tracy, you have been instrumental in providing Chicago-area alumni and families with highly engaging programs. In 2016, you and your husband, Brad, Class of 1992, brought the Bates community together at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater to see Othello: The Remix, featuring acclaimed actor and director Postell Pringle, Class of 1998. Last spring, you introduced alumni and families to Jonathan Pereira, Class of 1998, who — as executive director of Plant Chicago — hosted a tour of his organization’s farmer’s market, followed by a craft beer tasting. Your events celebrate not only the venues and organizations that make Chicago special, but the contributions that alumni make to your community. Your collaboration with Chicago’s after-school program MetroSquash and Bates Head Squash Coach Pat Cosquer, Class of 1997, has brought many accomplished student-athletes to the college. Tracy, your energy and enthusiasm inspires those who serve with you on the Alumni Council and your Reunion Committee.

Thank you for all you have done and continue to do for the college. Congratulations, you are truly one of Bates’ Best.

Jeffrey D. Sturgis ’69, P’93

Jeffrey D. Sturgis ’69, P’93 received their Bates’ Best awards on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017, during Back to Bates: Homecoming & Family Weekend.

Jeff’s engagement with the college now spans more than 50 years, a remarkable record of service. Here are just a few highlights: He is president of the College Key and a member of the Alumni Council. He served on the Bates Board of Trustees from 2000 to 2005 and is now a member of the Cheney Society. He was president of the Class of 1969 for more than 20 years and has been a lead class agent, a Reunion Committee member, and Reunion Gift Committee chair. He has been a leader in the Androscoggin Bates Club and the Bates Alumni Fund Committee. A Deansman and member of the Bates football team in his student years, Jeff coordinates and participates in Deansmen Reunions and provides commentary for webcasts of Bates football games.

This isn’t the first time the college has wisely chosen to honor Jeff. He is a recipient of the Helen A. Papaioanou ’49 Distinguished Alumni Service Award and was inducted into the Bates Scholar-Athlete Society.

Jeff, your many accomplishments in service to the college have brought honor to the Bates community, as well as to your father, Dean Sturgis, Class of 1949, your mother, Erma Rowe Sturgis, Class of 1946, and your daughter, Jodi Sturgis Coppetta, Class of 1993.

Thank you, Jeff, for all you have done and continue to do for the college. Congratulations, you are truly one of Bates’ Best.

Katy L. Corrado ’07

Katy L. Corrado ’07 received their Bates’ Best awards on June 10, 2017, during Reunion Weekend.

Katy, as a member of the Reunion Committee, you were instrumental in the Class of 2007 setting a new Bates record for 10th Reunion attendance. As a loyal class agent and a member of the Reunion Gift Committee — and even stretching back to your senior year, when you made your first foray into higher education advancement as a BatesStar class fundraising volunteer — you have helped your classmates understand the importance of philanthropy in strengthening the college for generations to come. It’s no wonder that you found your professional calling in the field of Alumni Relations and Advancement. Harvard is lucky to have you!

Those who nominated you say they have never met a bigger cheerleader for Bates. And, for my part, I agree wholeheartedly. Katy, you were the person who most encouraged me to enroll at Bates. Following your advice was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. To this day, I know you are a compelling advocate for the college.

Katy, thank you for your commitment to alumni and the college. In honor of your loyal service and generosity, you are truly one of Bates’ Best!

Leah Wiedmann Gailey ’97

Leah Wiedmann Gailey ’97 received their Bates’ Best awards on June 10, 2017, during Reunion Weekend.

Leah, as you know, Bates’ Best honors are awarded annually to dedicated volunteers who demonstrate a passion and commitment for advancing the mission of the college.

Because you have been in the employ of the college for the last 16 years, you technically haven’t been eligible for this honor. Now, as you prepare to embark on this next chapter with your family, it’s your turn. I am honored to present you with this most special award. No one is more deserving of the honor.

There probably aren’t many gathered here tonight who don’t know about your stellar career at Bates.

You joined College Advancement in 2001 as Assistant Director of Alumni Relations and steadily rose through a series of positions that focused on alumni engagement, volunteer management, annual giving, and the Mount David Society, culminating in your promotion to the position of Assistant Vice President, in 2013, with responsibility for the Bates Fund and Alumni and Family Engagement programs.

In each of these roles, you helped alumni, parents, and friends celebrate their passion for Bates.

As we have shared the news of your impending departure, the praise has flowed in. Trustees, volunteers, and colleagues across the campus have expressed gratitude for all that you have accomplished.

We are all grateful to you:

• For inviting alumni and parents to take an active role in ensuring that Bates remains one of the most vibrant and beloved colleges in the nation;
• For helping fellow alumni understand that Bates is forever their home;
• For your patience, grace, and generosity to all who work with you;
• For tackling challenges head-on with poise and assurance;
• For serving as a role model to so many colleagues over the years, and in that capacity helping to guide them on their professional paths;
• For leading teams that are inspired by your work ethic, innovation, creativity, and positivity;
• And for your tireless commitment to achieving “best in class” in all of our programs.

Leah, you leave the Office of College Advancement to devote yourself full time to raising your beautiful sons, Ollie and Elliot. They are truly lucky.

And we at Bates are truly lucky to have had you as a colleague, a leader, a mentor, and a friend for the past 16 years. I know I speak for everyone at the college when I say that you will be missed. But we will be happy to think of you and Chris in Freeport, not so far from Bates, making your community and its schools and organizations stronger through your involvement.

Just as you have worked to remind alumni that Bates is their home, let me say what you already know — that Bates is also your home, and our doors will always be open for you. We look forward to seeing you, Chris, Ollie, and Elliot often.

Thank you, Leah Wiedmann Gailey. You are truly one of Bates’ Best.

Keith C. Harvie ’67

Keith C. Harvie  ’67 received their Bates’ Best awards on June 10, 2017, during Reunion Weekend.

Keith, you are a tireless organizer for Bates and the Class of 1967. Through recruiting classmates for the Reunion Gift, Social, and Yearbook committees, as well as your own efforts, you have played a central role in making all aspects of the 50th Reunion a tremendous success. The 50th Reunion Yearbook Committee, which you co-chaired with Joanne Hayes Healy, produced a keepsake that perfectly captures the spirit of the Class of ’67 and features a wonderful compilation of biographies and memories that will be treasured by your classmates for years to come. Thanks to the biannual “rendezvous” you coordinate — one on campus and the other in Mystic, Connecticut — as well as your regular humor-filled emails, the Class of 1967 enjoys an exceptional level of camaraderie and connection.

Thank you, Keith, for your longstanding devotion to ensuring your classmates’ hearts are never far from each other or from the college. You are truly one of Bates’ Best.

Aya S. Murata ’92

Aya S. Murata ’92 received their Bates’ Best awards on June 10, 2017, during Reunion Weekend.

As I’m sure all of you know, Aya is all in for Bates.

As a testament to her dedication to the college, consider this: she and her husband, Mike Charland, of the Class of 1993, named their firstborn son after the college — Aki Bates Charland.

(So, if I’m doing the math right, I suspect we might soon receive Aki’s application for the Class of 2022.)

 Aya joined the Alumni Council in fall 2015 and made an immediate impact. She led the Council’s Second Decade subgroup in developing and executing an informative survey that gave Bates a better understanding of how to offer alumni of the 1990s more meaningful programming and communications.

As associate dean of college counseling at Phillips Academy, Aya is perfectly positioned to serve the college as an Alumni in Admission interviewer, something she has done for the past 17 years. She also has been a class agent and was instrumental to the Reunion committee’s efforts to make your 25th a splendid event.

Those who nominated Aya say that her warmth, her love of Bates, and her devotion to alumni rally others to join her in turning out for Reunions and Boston-area Bates events. She brings out the best in Bates alumni.

Aya, thank you for your loyal service, your philanthropic commitment to Bates, and your deep affection for the college and all alumni. Congratulations — you are one of Bates’ Best.

Michael H. Pasek ’12   

Michael H. Pasek ’12 received their Bates’ Best awards on June 10, 2017, during Reunion Weekend.

Mikey, you have recruited classmates from all corners of the country to join you in serving on the Reunion Committee and making your fifth Reunion a huge success for the Class of 2012. As class co-president and Reunion chair, you keep your classmates and the college informed and connected through your steadfast and savvy management of the class Facebook page.

Through your work with Alumni in Admission — as an admission fair representative, an interviewer, and an event host — you help the best and brightest high school students find their way to Bates, thereby strengthening the college with future generations of successful and highly engaged alumni.

And I would be remiss if I didn’t also acknowledge the work you did in your senior year to launch Bates Night in Town, a vital town-gown partnership that introduces students to the diverse dining options and cultural opportunities offered within their host community of Lewiston-Auburn. Were they here tonight, the proprietors of She Doesn’t Like Guthries, Lyceum Gallery, Gritty McDuff’s, Chopsticks, and Pedro O’Hara’s, among other downtown hotspots, would no doubt express their gratitude to you for this initiative.

Mikey, thank you for your commitment to alumni and the college. In honor of your loyal service and generosity, you are truly one of Bates’ Best!