The Harward Center’s new Associate Director for Volunteer Programs and Community Partnerships, Mohamed (Mo) Awil, is poised to significantly impact our community. Born in Kenya, Mohammed relocated to Lewiston at a young age. He attended Salem International University in West Virginia and competed in Track and Cross-Country athletics. Mohamed continued his education at the University of Southern Maine, studying business management.

Prior to joining the Harward Center, Mo worked with several local organizations, including Spurwink Services, Gateway Community Services, Community Concepts, and Lewiston Public Schools. His roles in management, coaching, human resources, and cultural exchange have already left a lasting impact on the LA community.

Mohamed’s job at Bates will include working to connect students to the off-campus community through the college’s extensive volunteer program and the Community Work Study program. He will also work with students who are Community Outreach Fellows and Bonner Racial Justice Fellows. Another emphasis will be to strengthen community partnerships–something Mo is passionate about. “Growing up in Lewiston, there was not much connection between the city and Bates College,” he reflects. “Through my role, I want to contribute to more intentional work to foster this relationship, bringing Bates to the community and the community to Bates.”

Expressing his excitement for his new role, Mo emphasizes his belief in community synergy and Bates’ mission of preparing leaders committed to informed civic action and responsible stewardship of the wider world. “I am truly excited to step into this role with the Harward Center and the greater Bates community,” Mo says. “To build upon the strong partnerships that already exist at the Harward Center is such a privilege. I see tremendous potential in the L/A area and am eager to contribute to its growth and development.”

As he settles into his new role, Mohamed is enthusiastic about the opportunity to engage directly with Bates students: “I love to see young people develop themselves through my work, and I am excited to meet many of you Bobcats along the way.” Starting his journey at the Harward Center, Mohamed already feels at home. “While there may be some adjustments from my previous roles, I’m confident in the supportive environment here,” he remarks. “The sense of care and camaraderie among the staff here is remarkable.”