For Carol Chase Bjerke ’65, time spent at Bates set the stage for her artistic career. Carol was a visual artist and educator whose work is anchored in her love of mountains and rock walls, which intertwines with themes of self-expression, communication, healing, and change.

In 2024, Nancy Bacon announced that her late mother, Paula Bacon ‘64, included a generous gift to Bates College in her estate, reflecting Paula’s lifelong appreciation for her time on campus. Nancy emphasized her mother’s deep love for Bates and how she helped her mother decide on the legacy she wished to leave, highlighting the importance of end-of-life conversations.

Stuart’s gift will establish an endowed scholarship fund for Bates students in the sciences with a preference for students from Maine. His commitment to community and rigorous STEM education will have a lasting legacy.

“I value liberal arts and I value my family’s connection to Bates and my place in it. Also, I’m in a place in my life where I can do this, rather than just giving every year. I have this amount of money and I want it to go to Bates and be used in whatever way that seems right to Bates.”

"There is no shortage of challenges in the world and it’s places like Bates that prepare people to take on those challenges.”

“Giving back to Bates has always been important for me. Bates had a huge impact on my life, and I want the college to continue to provide a high quality education and ever-increasing opportunities to current and future students. "

“I’m forever indebted to Bates for allowing me to attend a small, liberal arts college. I am grateful for the financial support and happy to repay that debt from 50 years ago."

When Jerry Davis and Gretchen Shorter arrived in Lewiston, Maine in 1957, they did not realize the extent of the transformative connections they would experience at Bates.