Philip J. Otis, Bates class of 1995, designed his own environmental studies program to pursue his interests in nature and culture. During the summer following his senior year, while working as a Park Ranger on Mount Rainier, he lost his life in a rescue attempt for some stranded hikers.  In his memory, the Philip J. Otis endowment was established which funds a number of opportunities for students and faculty.

A Maine granite memorial on the campus’s Lake Andrews acknowledges the life and interests of Phil Otis.