Six Bates alumni were recognized for their contributions to Bates and the wider world — in fields and endeavors including emergency medicine, applied psychology, and financial services — during the Annual Gathering of the Bates College Alumni Association on June 8 during Reunion.
“We are incredibly proud to honor these outstanding alumni for their distinct accomplishments and important work for Bates and beyond,” said Kevin Moore ’93, president of the Bates Alumni Association. “Their commitment to service, excellence, and social responsibility embodies the spirit of Bates, and we are grateful for their continued dedication to the Bates community.”
Alumni Award Nominations
Bates welcomes nominations for Bates Alumni Association awards and for other alumni and parent awards sponsored by the college.
During the gathering, President Garry W. Jenkins offered the traditional Presidential Address, his first as president, to the Reunion alumni, who gathered in Merrill Gymnasium following the 110th Alumni Parade.
“Thank you for being here and listening,” he said in his conclusion. “Thanks for your warm welcome into the Bates community. And thanks for your engagement, your generosity, and your loyal support of Bates.”
Alumni Community Service Award: Michael Schlechter ’99
Schlechter received the Alumni Community Service Award for his steadfast and nearly lifelong volunteer commitment to the field of emergency medical services, currently as volunteer chief of the Weston (Conn.) Volunteer EMS; his countless hours of dedicated service has safeguarded the well-being of others, saved lives, enhanced public safety, and inspired his home community of Weston.
Alumni Professional Recognition Award: Robin Hodgskin ’76
Hodgskin received the Alumni Professional Recognition Award for her remarkable success as a senior vice president in the financial-services industry, including an influential role in guiding ultra-high-net-worth families towards impactful philanthropy, and her unwavering dedication to community service and social responsibility through extensive involvement in organizations like Safe Passage and the Maine Women’s Fund.
Alumni Professional Recognition Award: David Wilcox ’74
David Wilcox ’74 received the Alumni Professional Recognition Award for his distinguished 45-year career in medicine, his academic contributions at institutions like Brown University Medical School and the University of Massachusetts Medical School, his leadership in leading medical organizations, and his unwavering commitment to advancing healthcare, patient-centered care, and mentoring future generations, reflecting the service and community engagement ideals of Bates.
Bruce Stangle ’70 Award for Distinguished Service: Ira Waldman ’73
Waldman ’73 received the Bruce Stangle ’70 Award for Distinguished Service for his extraordinary dedication and engagement as a Bates alumnus, providing valuable expertise to many Bates programs and initiative, including impactful advocacy for Bates Athletics and skillful efforts as a Reunion volunteer, Alumni Council member, Bates Admission representative, and leader of the John Jenkins Scholarship Committee.
Distinguished Young Alumni Award: Alexandria Onuoha ’20
Alexandria Onuoha ’20 received the Distinguished Young Alumni Award for her exceptional dedication to Bates and remarkable early-career achievements as a doctoral candidate in applied developmental psychology, including publishing peer-reviewed articles, presenting on critical societal issues, and advocating for social change through psychology, all while actively engaging with broader audiences to amplify her voice and drive informed civic action.
Helen A. Papaioanou ’49 Distinguished Alumni Service Award: Jennifer Bouchard ’99.
Bouchard received the Helen A. Papaioanou ’49 Distinguished Alumni Service Award for her exceptional dedication and impactful roles as a Bates volunteer, demonstrated through her leadership on the Alumni Council and Bates Fund Executive Committee; her active work to support Bates Admission recruiting, career advising, and event coordination; and her tireless service as a liaison between alumni, students, and the college community.
