Thank You!

Thank you for making 2020-2021 another record-breaking year for Bates, giving an astonishing $34.2 million to the college and helping the Bates Campaign cross the $263 million mark. Your generosity supports the entire Bates experience and impacts life on campus every day.

Here’s a snapshot of what you make possible.

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Fall sun shines through trees on Bates' historic Quad.

Professor of Earth and Climate Sciences Beverly Johnson demonstrates a lab technique during class at Lake Andrews.

Three dancers watch a fourth dancer move across a backlit stage during a performance.

The Bates women's rowing team poses with their championship trophies and throws celebratory confetti.

President Clayton Spencer addresses graduates in the Class of 2021 in May. Bates is committed to meeting 100 percent of students’ financial need for all four years—an annual commitment of approximately $36 million in grant aid. This commitment is supported by generous philanthropy from our alumni, parents, and friends. Nearly one-third of donors to the Bates Fund direct their gifts in support of financial aid.

Three Bates students pose with baskets of herbs.

Three students work with lab equipment in a Bonney Science Center lab.

The Bonney Science Center as seen from the outside in August 2021.

Photos by Phyllis Graber Jensen and Theophil Syslo for Bates College.

Thank you to our donors and volunteers…

This past year, almost 11,000 alumni, families, and friends set new records for both overall and Bates Fund giving. This inspiring show of support helped us to bring students to campus safely in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, and allowed us to creatively adapt our teaching and learning in response to ever-changing global circumstances. Even in a year unlike any other, Bates students earned Fulbright Awards, won championships, and created innovative artistic work in disciplines including theater and dance.

We are exceptionally grateful to every community member whose support—in the form of time, energy, connection, or philanthropy—makes the Bates experience possible. Thank you!

Who Gave

More than 10,900 people from all corners of the Bates community supported the college, contributing more than $34 million in gifts.

What You Supported

Students and faculty feel the impact of your gifts every day.

Bates Fund Giving

The Bates Fund, including gifts to Friends of Bates Athletics, provides vital support for academic, athletic, and co-curricular programs.

Thank you to our donors and volunteers…