Hello, Bates Class of 2024 Families –

Commencement Weekend is just around the corner, and we have a few reminders for you as you get ready to head to campus or to tune in to the Commencement livestream from afar.

• We encourage you to review the Commencement FAQ and then to check the campus map for best parking options for Commencement Weekend. Note that the lot behind Lane Hall will be closed, and our best advice is to park at the big lot at Merrill Gymnasium.
• Seating on the Historic Quad opens to families at 7 a.m. on Sunday, May 26. If you wish to hold seats with jackets, etc., a person from your party must remain with your held seats. Unattended seats are not considered held, even if you leave items on the chairs.
• Bates strives to make Commencement accessible. Families can find accessible parking behind the Bonney Science Center, an accessible drop-off zone on Campus Avenue next to Carnegie Hall, and accessible seating on the Historic Quad for Baccalaureate on Saturday and Commencement on Sunday. A limited number of wheelchairs are available; please reach out to Brenda Pelletier, Associate Director of Conferences and Campus Events, at bpelleti@bates.edu or 207-786-6400.

Finally, remember that Maine weather is changeable, so consider packing your rain jacket as well as your sun hat – except in the case of severe weather, Commencement is outside, rain or shine!

We look forward to seeing you soon on campus. 

With best regards,
The Bates Parent Team

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