In keeping with Bates’ 150 year history, a group of Bates seniors has created the “Graduation Pledge of Responsibility,” inviting all in the class to sign:

“I choose to recognize the privilege that comes with receiving a Bates education and the power that this education and degree afford me.

I accept the responsibility that comes with this power and privilege and choose to pursue a life that promotes:

social justice
environmental sustainability
understanding
community
equality
economic justice
peace

There are many tangible, concrete ways to promote these abstract goals, and I will seek, through my life’s work, to find those which satisfy my personal ideals most fully.”