There’s no mistaking the colors, light, and feel of early autumn in Maine — even though this year's warm temperatures layered on something of a summery feel, too. No matter: Add more than a thousand alumni and family members, and everything fell into place.
After a month’s separation, families and students met again with pleasure.
“She told me, ‘Mom, I'm happy to be here.’ What a comfort for Mom!” — Nerissa Boggan, with her daughter Imani Boggan ’21 of Lafayette, Calif., on campus for Back To Bates Weekend.
From poster presentations on Purposeful Work internships and summer research, to classroom observations, to discussions on pedagogy, educational opportunities abounded for all.
Assistant Professor of German Jakub Kazecki welcomed parents to his introductory German language and culture class.
A panel of Bates faculty presented to families on preparing their students for Bates and beyond. Moderated by Kathryn Low, professor of psychology and interim vice president for academic affairs and dean of the faculty, the panelists included:
Lee Abrahamsen, associate professor of biology and chair of the Medical Studies Committee
Matthew Jadud, associate professor of digital and computational studies
Kirk Read, professor of French and francophone studies
Mara Tieken, associate professor of education
Canine pets are members of the family, of course. And many arrived on campus to spend quality time with their beloved students, who doubtlessly missed their companions. Were such feelings reciprocated? Apparently so.
Arts events during Back to Bates had the kind of effect once described by the painter, poet, and essayist Marsden Hartley (1877–1943), a native of Lewiston whose works are in the Bates Museum of Art.
“What I have to express…must ‘come’ to the observer. It must carry its influence over the mind of the individual into that region of him which is more than the mind.”
Bates a cappella, of course!
Bates Dining Services is always in high gear. And when the campus population doubles in size for a weekend, the turbocharger kicks in, and Christine Schwartz, assistant vice president for dining, conferences, and campus events, makes sure everything goes in the right direction.
The football game included lots of tough moments, but loyal fans hung in for the duration as Trinity dealt Bates a blow. We’re looking to next weekend and cherrypicking our memories from these encouraging and joyous experiences.
Halftime ceremonies included recognition of All-American athletes at Bates. A special moment included the women's rowing team presenting their NCAA Division III championship trophy to President Clayton Spencer and Athletic Director Jason Fein. Rugby played a 40th Anniversary Reunion game, while the Office of College Advancement recognized outstanding alumni and parent volunteers.
President Clayton Spencer held a reception for family members of Bobcats First! students at the Office of Intercultural Education in Chase Hall for light fare and conversation.
The Olin Concert Series presented Harris in a Sunday afternoon performance. A Watson Fellowship recipient and acclaimed blues guitarist, Harris presented a treasure trove of music from the African Diaspora to celebrate the Watson’s 50th anniversary.
© 2026 Bates College