{"id":876,"date":"2013-07-30T13:46:54","date_gmt":"2013-07-30T13:46:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/president\/?page_id=876"},"modified":"2025-06-23T10:47:13","modified_gmt":"2025-06-23T14:47:13","slug":"speeches-and-statements","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/home-2\/speeches-and-statements\/","title":{"rendered":"Speeches and Statements"},"content":{"rendered":"<ul class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__list is-grid columns-3 has-dates has-author wp-block-latest-posts\"><li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2023\/06\/30\/bates-responds-to-supreme-court-ruling-in-lgbtq-case\/\">Bates Responds to Supreme Court Ruling in LGBTQ+ Case<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Clayton Spencer and Garry W. Jenkins<\/div><time datetime=\"2023-06-30T12:36:48-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">June 30, 2023<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community, We write to express our serious concern about today\u2019s Supreme Court decision in 303 Creative, LLC v. Elenis and to offer support to our LGBTQ+ community in light of this ruling. The Court invokes&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2023\/06\/29\/bates-responds-to-supreme-courts-ruling-on-race-conscious-college-admissions\/\">Bates responds to Supreme Court\u2019s ruling on race-conscious college admissions<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Clayton Spencer and Garry W. Jenkins<\/div><time datetime=\"2023-06-29T14:35:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">June 29, 2023<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community: We are deeply disappointed by today\u2019s decision by the Supreme Court, a ruling that turns back the clock on 45 years of established constitutional principle and significantly restricts the admissions practices used at many&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2023\/06\/10\/address-at-the-annual-gathering-of-the-alumni-association\/\">Address at the Annual Gathering of the Alumni Association<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Clayton Spencer<\/div><time datetime=\"2023-06-10T14:45:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">June 10, 2023<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">President Clayton Spencer&#8217;s final public remarks as the college&#8217;s eighth president were at the Annual Gathering of the Alumni Association held during Reunion on June 10, 2023. George Colby Chase was the second president of Bates, serving for 25 years,&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2023\/03\/23\/union-election-results-statement\/\">Union Election Results Statement<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Clayton Spencer<\/div><time datetime=\"2023-03-23T15:00:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">March 23, 2023<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Colleagues, I write to provide an update on the union election conducted by the Regional Office of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) in Boston in January 2022. There were 440 valid ballots cast from the designated bargaining unit,&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2023\/03\/22\/union-ballot-count-to-take-place-tomorrow\/\">Union Ballot Count to Take Place Tomorrow<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Clayton Spencer<\/div><time datetime=\"2023-03-22T15:00:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">March 22, 2023<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Colleagues, I write to let you know that the Regional Director of the National Labor Relations Board in Boston has scheduled the opening and counting of the ballots from last year\u2019s union election for tomorrow, Thursday, March 23. We&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2023\/03\/17\/further-update-on-a-pending-union-issue\/\">Further update on a pending union issue<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Clayton Spencer<\/div><time datetime=\"2023-03-17T15:00:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">March 17, 2023<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Colleagues,&nbsp; I write to share with you that the college received notice this afternoon that the National Labor Relations Board (the Board) today issued an order granting union counsel\u2019s motion to open and count the ballots in our case.&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2023\/03\/13\/update-on-a-pending-union-issue-2\/\">Update on a Pending\u00a0Union\u00a0Issue<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Clayton Spencer<\/div><time datetime=\"2023-03-13T15:00:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">March 13, 2023<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Colleagues, I write to share an update on a pending union issue.&nbsp; On Thursday, March 9, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB, or the Board) published a notice in the Federal Register to rescind four provisions in its own&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2022\/12\/21\/announcement-of-vice-president-for-equity-and-inclusion\/\">Announcement of Vice President for Equity and Inclusion\u00a0<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2022-12-21T13:20:02-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">December 21, 2022<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">I write to share the news that Leana E. Am\u00e1ez, a seasoned equity and inclusion leader and longtime advocate for underrepresented populations, will become our vice president for equity and inclusion, effective Feb. 27, 2023.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2022\/10\/25\/letter-regarding-campus-safety\/\">Letter Regarding Campus Safety<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2022-10-25T09:58:28-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">October 25, 2022<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff:&nbsp; You may be aware that we have recently experienced some troubling incidents on campus, including several reports of assault, unwelcome encounters in outdoor spaces, reports of theft of personal belongings primarily from unlocked residence hall&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2022\/09\/20\/bates-community-letter-fall-2022\/\">Bates Community Letter: Fall 2022<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2022-09-20T12:21:35-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">September 20, 2022<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">From the arrival of the Class of 2026 with their loved ones and their \u201cstuff,\u201d to the faculty settling into their new spaces in the rejuvenated Dana Hall, to encounters with colleagues in virtually every corner of our campus, these past few weeks have brought a palpable energy back to Bates.\u00a0<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2022\/09\/15\/equity-and-inclusion-update-september-15-2022\/\">Equity and Inclusion Update September 15, 2022<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2022-09-15T09:50:16-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">September 15, 2022<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community, As we enter the new academic year, I write to provide you with an update on several aspects of our ongoing work to advance equity and inclusion at Bates. Overview Over the past year,&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2022\/08\/26\/a-word-of-thanks-for-the-success-of-the-bates-campaign\/\">A Word of Thanks for the Success of the Bates Campaign<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Clayton Spencer<\/div><time datetime=\"2022-08-26T10:13:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">August 26, 2022<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">I write to thank you for your part in making possible an important achievement for Bates \u2014 the successful completion of the Bates Campaign, which concluded officially on June 30, 2022.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2022\/08\/17\/announcement-of-vice-president-for-college-advancement\/\">Announcement of Vice President for College Advancement<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Clayton Spencer<\/div><time datetime=\"2022-08-17T10:03:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">August 17, 2022<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">I write to share the news that our colleague Eric Foush\u00e9e has been appointed vice president for college advancement, effective immediately. Eric has served as acting vice president since July 1, succeeding Sarah Pearson \u201975, who retired June 30.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2022\/08\/05\/announcement-of-vice-president-for-communications-and-marketing\/\">Announcement of Vice President for Communications and Marketing<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Clayton Spencer<\/div><time datetime=\"2022-08-05T12:37:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">August 5, 2022<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">I write to share the news that Tracey A. Reeves, associate vice president for research and academic communications at Georgia Institute of Technology, will become vice president for communications and marketing at Bates, effective Sept. 12.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2022\/06\/22\/message-bates-community-2023\/\">A Message to the Bates Community<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2022-06-22T09:40:38-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">June 22, 2022<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">I write to share with you that earlier this week, I informed the Board of Trustees of my decision that the upcoming academic year will be my last as president of Bates. <\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2022\/06\/06\/vpei-search-update\/\">VPEI Search Update<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Clayton Spencer<\/div><time datetime=\"2022-06-06T14:40:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">June 6, 2022<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community, I write to thank you for your very helpful engagement throughout this spring\u2019s search for Bates\u2019 next Vice President for Equity and Inclusion, and I appreciate those of you who took time to meet&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__featured-image alignleft\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2022\/06\/04\/welcome-and-remarks-at-class-of-2020-commencement-celebration-june-4-2022\/\" aria-label=\"Welcome and Remarks at Class of 2020 Commencement Celebration, June 4, 2022\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"267\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2022\/06\/220604-2020-screen-capture-400x267.webp\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" style=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2022\/06\/220604-2020-screen-capture-400x267.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2022\/06\/220604-2020-screen-capture-900x600.webp 900w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2022\/06\/220604-2020-screen-capture-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2022\/06\/220604-2020-screen-capture-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2022\/06\/220604-2020-screen-capture-200x133.webp 200w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2022\/06\/220604-2020-screen-capture-942x628.jpg 942w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2022\/06\/220604-2020-screen-capture.webp 1919w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><\/div><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2022\/06\/04\/welcome-and-remarks-at-class-of-2020-commencement-celebration-june-4-2022\/\">Welcome and Remarks at Class of 2020 Commencement Celebration, June 4, 2022<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2022-06-04T08:07:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">June 4, 2022<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">President Clayton Spencers welcome and remarks at the Class of 2020&#8217;s graduation celebration on June 4, 2022.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2022\/03\/18\/update-on-a-pending-union-issue\/\">Update on a Pending Union Issue<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Clayton Spencer<\/div><time datetime=\"2022-03-18T19:50:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">March 18, 2022<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Colleagues, This afternoon, we received word from the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) in Washington, D.C. that they have granted the college\u2019s request for review of the decision by the regional director of the NLRB to combine faculty and&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2022\/03\/15\/bates-sustainability-roadmap\/\">Bates Sustainability Roadmap<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Clayton Spencer<\/div><time datetime=\"2022-03-15T15:00:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">March 15, 2022<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community, We are very pleased to share with you&nbsp;the final version of our Sustainability Roadmap, which sets goals for the college including a shift from being carbon neutral, a goal Bates achieved one year ahead&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2022\/02\/07\/information-on-a-pending-union-issue\/\">Information on a Pending Union Issue<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Clayton Spencer<\/div><time datetime=\"2022-02-07T15:18:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">February 7, 2022<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Colleagues, In response to questions from faculty and staff, I write to address the union election and the college\u2019s request for review by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) of the decision to combine faculty and staff in a&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2022\/01\/31\/update-on-union-election\/\">Update on Union Election<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2022-01-31T12:01:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">January 31, 2022<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">I write to provide an update on the union election conducted by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) from January 6 through January 28. Ballots have been received by the regional office of the NLRB, but it was confirmed this afternoon that they will not be counted today as originally scheduled because a request for review of the appropriateness of the bargaining unit is pending before the NLRB and remains unresolved.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2022\/01\/21\/equity-and-inclusion-call-for-vpei-search-committee-nominations\/\">Equity and Inclusion: Call for VPEI Search Committee Nominations<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2022-01-21T14:25:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">January 21, 2022<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Colleagues, I write today with an update on the consultation process regarding the work of equity and inclusion at Bates that I announced&nbsp;in September&nbsp;and that is ongoing this semester. I also write to invite nominations and self-nominations for a&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2021\/10\/12\/union-organizing-at-bates\/\">Union Organizing at Bates<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Clayton Spencer<\/div><time datetime=\"2021-10-12T15:15:51-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">October 12, 2021<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Colleagues,\n\nI write to address issues and questions that have arisen in the context of union organizing efforts at Bates and to outline how the college intends to support all employees as we move through the process.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2021\/09\/30\/bates-community-letter-fall-2021\/\">Bates Community Letter: Fall 2021<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2021-09-30T16:18:34-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">September 30, 2021<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community, As we settle into the rhythms of the academic year, I wanted to be in touch to share some thoughts and plans about our work together.&nbsp; First, I want to thank all of you\u2014students,&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2021\/09\/23\/equity-inclusion-and-antiracism-work-at-bates-report-on-progress-and-planning\/\">Equity, Inclusion, and Antiracism Work at Bates: Report on Progress and Planning<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2021-09-23T14:03:13-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">September 23, 2021<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Introduction The work of equity, inclusion, and antiracism is central to achieving our core mission of providing an education that is meant to transform lives. No student can learn and grow and realize their full potential unless they are seen&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2021\/08\/31\/the-project-of-truth-seeking-remarks-at-convocation-aug-31-2021\/\">&#8216;The Project of Truth-Seeking&#8217;: Remarks at Convocation, Aug. 31, 2021<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2021-08-31T16:42:50-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">August 31, 2021<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">I would like to think with you this morning about a project that is central to everything we do at Bates and, I hope, central to what you wish to get out of your college experience: the project of truth-seeking.&nbsp;&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2021\/05\/11\/may-2021-financial-update-for-faculty-staff\/\">May 2021 Financial Update for Faculty &amp; Staff<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2021-05-11T11:35:21-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">May 11, 2021<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Colleagues, As we approach the end of the academic and fiscal years, I write to share an update on the state of college finances and some financial actions that we will undertake for the benefit of faculty and staff.&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2021\/04\/20\/statement-on-chauvin-verdict\/\">Statement on Chauvin Verdict<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2021-04-20T19:16:20-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">April 20, 2021<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">The verdict in the trial of Derek Chauvin is in, and in this one, singular case, a measure of justice has been done. That it feels so exceptional tells us how deep the struggle for racial justice in this country&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2021\/03\/17\/standing-with-our-asian-and-asian-american-community-members\/\">Standing with Our Asian and Asian-American Community Members<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2021-03-17T15:59:55-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">March 17, 2021<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community, As the world struggles with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we continue to see an appalling rise in anti-Asian discrimination and hate crimes across the country. Last night, our nation witnessed a horrific series of&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2021\/03\/12\/information-about-commencement-2021\/\">Information about Commencement 2021<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2021-03-12T13:31:11-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">March 12, 2021<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Class of 2021, I write today to share information about Commencement and how we plan to celebrate and formally mark your graduation from Bates in May.&nbsp; Last week, Maine Governor Janet Mills&nbsp;issued an Executive Order&nbsp;that eased&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2021\/01\/07\/statement-on-recent-national-events\/\">Statement on Recent National Events<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2021-01-07T18:10:23-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">January 7, 2021<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community: Yesterday\u2019s assault on our nation\u2019s Capitol was both predictable and profoundly shocking. With the president urging them on, armed mobs invaded the literal seat of our democracy in order to disrupt the certification of&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/12\/07\/winter-2021-announcement\/\">Winter 2021 Announcement<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-12-07T18:15:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">December 7, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community, I write to share important news about a shift in our calendar for the winter semester in response to developments in the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the new plan, Bates will extend the winter break&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/11\/30\/the-work-of-antiracism-at-bates-progress-update\/\">The Work of Antiracism at Bates:  Progress Update<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Clayton Spencer and Noelle Chaddock<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-11-30T11:12:20-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">November 30, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Creation of a Trustee Committee on Equity, Inclusion, and Antiracism To reinforce our commitment to the work of antiracism at every level of the institution, this summer the Bates College Board of Trustees formed a Committee on Equity, Inclusion, and&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/11\/12\/financial-update-for-faculty-staff\/\">Financial Update for Faculty &amp; Staff<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-11-12T12:21:11-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">November 12, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Faculty and Staff Colleagues, I write to share a few brief updates and to announce several financial actions that we are undertaking to benefit Bates employees. This message summarizes matters that we discussed this afternoon on a webinar for&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/09\/21\/bates-community-letter-fall-2020\/\">Bates Community Letter: Fall 2020<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-09-21T09:51:50-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">September 21, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community, As we head into the fourth week of the first semester, I write with an update on how we are managing this fall\u2019s unique challenges and to give you a sense of some important&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/09\/01\/welcome-remarks-at-convocation-2020\/\">Welcome Remarks at Convocation 2020<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-09-01T12:00:47-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">September 1, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Good afternoon. Welcome to the opening convocation of the new academic year. We do not know how this year will unfold, and we continue to live, in all aspects of our lives, with more than the usual quotient of trepidation&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/08\/20\/a-few-thoughts-as-we-open-the-year\/\">A Few Thoughts as We Open the Year<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-08-20T16:21:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">August 20, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Faculty and Staff Colleagues, Beginning this weekend, we will welcome students back to campus for what will surely be one of the most unusual academic years in the history of Bates. Already, the campus is beginning to come alive,&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/08\/10\/response-to-petition-on-fall-2020-plans\/\">Response to Petition on Fall 2020 Plans<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-08-10T15:56:55-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">August 10, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community: Last week, senior staff colleagues and I received a petition raising various questions with respect to our plans for the fall semester. The petition offers a set of considered viewpoints on many of the&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__featured-image alignleft\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/06\/15\/the-work-of-antiracism-at-bates\/\" aria-label=\"The Work of Antiracism at Bates\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"210\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2020\/06\/Clayton_AntiracismStatement_TitleCard-400x210.webp\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" style=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2020\/06\/Clayton_AntiracismStatement_TitleCard-400x210.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2020\/06\/Clayton_AntiracismStatement_TitleCard-900x472.webp 900w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2020\/06\/Clayton_AntiracismStatement_TitleCard-768x403.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2020\/06\/Clayton_AntiracismStatement_TitleCard-1536x806.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2020\/06\/Clayton_AntiracismStatement_TitleCard-200x105.webp 200w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2020\/06\/Clayton_AntiracismStatement_TitleCard-1197x628.jpg 1197w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2020\/06\/Clayton_AntiracismStatement_TitleCard.png 1919w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><\/div><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/06\/15\/the-work-of-antiracism-at-bates\/\">The Work of Antiracism at Bates<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-06-15T15:31:58-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">June 15, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community, In light of the national crisis arising from ongoing police killings of black people and accompanying public outrage at the ways in which we persist in diminishing the value of black lives, I wanted&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__featured-image alignleft\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/06\/02\/racism-and-educational-mission\/\" aria-label=\"Racism and Educational Mission\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"210\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2020\/06\/ImportantMessageLandscape-400x210.webp\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" style=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2020\/06\/ImportantMessageLandscape-400x210.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2020\/06\/ImportantMessageLandscape-900x472.webp 900w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2020\/06\/ImportantMessageLandscape-768x403.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2020\/06\/ImportantMessageLandscape-1536x806.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2020\/06\/ImportantMessageLandscape-200x105.webp 200w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2020\/06\/ImportantMessageLandscape-1197x628.jpg 1197w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2020\/06\/ImportantMessageLandscape.png 1919w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><\/div><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/06\/02\/racism-and-educational-mission\/\">Racism and Educational Mission<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-06-02T16:18:48-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">June 2, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">On behalf of Bates College, I condemn these acts of extreme cruelty and the long history of racial injustice and violence against black, brown, and indigenous people that have made them possible and dangerously routine.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/05\/30\/a-pause-to-acknowledge\/\">A Pause to Acknowledge<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-05-30T20:10:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">May 30, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Bates President Clayton Spencer, VP for Equity and Inclusion Noelle Chaddock, and Bates Multifaith Chaplain Brittany Longsdorf take a moment to reflect and pause as our nation grapples with the recent, yet sadly familiar events, of continuing race-based violence.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/05\/19\/reply-to-may-8-2020-letter-from-faculty-and-staff\/\">Reply to May 8, 2020 Letter from Faculty and Staff<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-05-19T16:19:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">May 19, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Colleagues, Many thanks for your letter, dated May 8 and signed by 52 members of faculty and staff and an additional 74 anonymous individuals, concerning issues arising out of the current COVID crisis, its financial implications for the college&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/05\/08\/planning-for-next-academic-year\/\">Planning for Next Academic Year<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-05-08T18:46:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">May 8, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Bates Students and Families, Now that we have reached the end of a winter semester none of us could have imagined, I want to share an update on how we are planning for the fall and the next academic&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/05\/07\/community-message-revised-title-ix-regulations\/\">Community Message: Revised Title IX Regulations<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-05-07T11:44:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">May 7, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community: Yesterday, the U.S. Department of Education Office of Civil Rights released revised regulations governing the handling of sexual misconduct on college campuses under Title IX. The new rules will go into effect on August&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/04\/27\/april-27-update-on-financial-impact-of-covid-19\/\">April 27: Update on financial impact of COVID-19<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-04-27T09:04:57-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">April 27, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Colleagues, As we enter another week of managing through a global crisis that has disrupted our personal and professional lives at a level inconceivable a few short months ago, I write with important information about the impact of the&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/04\/14\/faculty-staff-working-group-on-fall-planning-and-college-finances\/\">Faculty-Staff Working Group on Fall Planning and College Finances<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-04-14T08:00:39-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">April 14, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Colleagues: As we enter the last week of classes for the semester, I write to provide an update on the college\u2019s ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic and share plans for how we are organizing ourselves to address some&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/04\/06\/announcement-about-reunion-weekend-2020\/\">Announcement About Reunion Weekend 2020<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-04-06T19:50:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">April 6, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Bates Alumni, I write today to share what I know will be disappointing news: Due to the COVID-19 crisis, we have made the difficult decision to cancel Reunion Weekend 2020. Given where we are in the current pandemic, we&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/04\/06\/announcement-about-commencement\/\">Announcement About Commencement<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-04-06T19:48:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">April 6, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Seniors, I write today with important information about plans for this year\u2019s Commencement. Given where we stand with the global pandemic, it is clear that it would be neither safe nor prudent for us to host an in-person Commencement&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/03\/22\/message-to-faculty-and-staff-thank-you\/\">Message to Faculty and Staff: Thank You!<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-03-22T15:51:58-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">March 22, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Bates Faculty and Staff, Tomorrow we head into our first week of teaching our students remotely and into yet another week of continual adjustment to this new and strange reality. This experience is stressful and disorienting for everyone, and&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/03\/22\/greetings-from-campus\/\">Greetings from Campus<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-03-22T15:51:07-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">March 22, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Students and Families, I hope that by now most of you are settled in at home or somewhere else safe and are beginning to adjust to this new and strange reality. These past two weeks have been stressful and&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/03\/19\/confirmed-case-of-covid-19\/\">Confirmed Case of COVID-19<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-03-19T17:49:47-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">March 19, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community: I write to inform you that a member of our community has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual has been at home in self-isolation for a number of days while receiving the necessary care&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/03\/17\/important-covid-19-update-for-staff\/\">Important COVID-19 Update for Staff<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-03-17T16:14:52-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">March 17, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Colleagues: I write with an important update about the college\u2019s continued response to the COVID-19 situation. Beginning immediately, Bates will transition to a remote working model for any employees whose physical presence on campus is not required to carry&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/03\/14\/urgent-information-about-timely-departure-from-campus\/\">Urgent Information About Timely Departure from Campus<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-03-14T16:30:56-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">March 14, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Students, I write to ask that you respond with a greater sense of urgency to the public health crisis that confronts us and depart campus as soon as possible. We know from meal counts in Commons and residence hall&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/03\/13\/march-13-covid-19-announcement\/\">March 13 COVID-19 Announcement<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-03-13T07:23:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">March 13, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community, I write to share important news about Bates\u2019 response to the rapidly evolving COVID-19 situation. As I wrote to you earlier this week, because of our unique academic calendar, with our winter semester well-advanced&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2020\/03\/10\/message-regarding-college-response-to-covid-19\/\">Message Regarding College Response to COVID-19<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Clayton Spencer<\/div><time datetime=\"2020-03-10T00:32:00-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">March 10, 2020<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Families, Many of you may have heard the news that one of our NESCAC peer institutions has announced that the college will move to remote learning so that students can complete their learning off campus beginning March 23, after&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2019\/09\/11\/community-letter-fall-2019\/\">Bates Community Letter: Fall 2019<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2019-09-11T14:00:01-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">September 11, 2019<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community, Welcome to the 2019\u201320 academic year! I write to share news of recent progress and outline institutional plans and priorities for the year ahead. The Bates Community First, I want to offer a special&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2019\/05\/24\/update-on-veterans-project\/\">Update on Veterans Project<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2019-05-24T10:41:24-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">May 24, 2019<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community, I write with an update on the planned Veterans Recognition Project at Bates, which was announced last May. A Veterans Recognition Project Committee, comprising students, faculty, staff, and alumni, began work last summer to&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2019\/01\/31\/bates-letter-to-u-s-department-of-education-on-title-ix\/\">Bates Letter to U.S. Department of Education on Title IX<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2019-01-31T08:00:47-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">January 31, 2019<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community: As you may know, in November 2018, the U.S. Department of Education proposed revised regulations governing the handling of sexual misconduct on college campuses under Title IX. We write today to let you know&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2018\/09\/25\/bates-community-letter-fall-2018\/\">Bates Community Letter: Fall 2018<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2018-09-25T09:10:34-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">September 25, 2018<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community, As we settle into the rhythms of the new academic year, I write to share with you goals and aspirations for the year ahead and to provide some context on priorities and progress in&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2018\/09\/06\/remarks-at-convocation-fall-2018\/\">Remarks at Convocation: Fall 2018<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2018-09-06T16:20:23-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">September 6, 2018<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">\u201cThe arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.\u201d I\u2019m sure that many of you are familiar with this statement, made famous by the Reverend Martin Luther King Jr.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2018\/05\/17\/veterans-recognition-at-bates\/\">Veterans&#8217; Recognition at Bates<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2018-05-17T10:47:55-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">May 17, 2018<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">&nbsp; Dear Members of the Bates Community, I am pleased to share with you our plan to create a public space on campus to recognize the service and sacrifice of members of the Bates community who are military veterans and&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2017\/12\/13\/announcement-of-professorship-appointments\/\">Announcement of Professorship Appointments in 2017\u201318<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2017-12-13T11:40:34-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">December 13, 2017<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">I am delighted to announce the appointment of five faculty members to endowed professorships, effective in 2017\u201318.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2017\/09\/26\/bates-community-letter-fall-2017\/\">Bates Community Letter: Fall 2017<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2017-09-26T10:33:29-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">September 26, 2017<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community, Now that we have settled into the 2017\u201318 academic year, I write to share with you some of the plans and priorities that I hope will guide our work together. As I mentioned at&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2017\/09\/05\/statement-on-decision-to-end-deferred-action-for-childhood-arrivals-daca-policy\/\">Statement on Decision to End Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Policy<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2017-09-05T16:10:54-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">September 5, 2017<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">We are deeply disappointed by President Trump\u2019s cruel decision to rescind the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy. Ending this program runs counter to core American ideals and will cause unnecessary fear and uncertainty for thousands of students and&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2017\/09\/05\/remarks-at-convocation-fall-2017\/\">Remarks at Convocation: Fall 2017<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2017-09-05T13:26:58-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">September 5, 2017<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">I cannot remember a time in my professional experience when matters of context and principle have intruded so insistently into the project of teaching the next generation of students.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2017\/08\/14\/standing-with-charlottesville\/\">Standing with Charlottesville<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2017-08-14T15:00:55-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">August 14, 2017<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community, The events of this past weekend in Charlottesville, based on hatred, bigotry, and deeply twisted notions of white supremacy, represent an assault on values fundamental to our nation and our democracy. The violence that&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2017\/06\/14\/update-and-findings-of-independent-investigation\/\">Update and Findings of Independent Investigation<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2017-06-14T08:24:52-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">June 14, 2017<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community: I write to share the findings of the investigation into an incident that occurred on campus on Saturday, May 13; to outline actions the college will take to address issues relating to campus security&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2017\/05\/19\/update-on-recent-campus-events\/\">Update on Recent Campus Events<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2017-05-19T14:55:20-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">May 19, 2017<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community, As this week comes to a close, I write to share an update on the incident that occurred at a dance this past Saturday, May 13, involving a black male student, event staff members,&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2017\/05\/15\/message-to-the-bates-community-2\/\">Message to the Bates Community<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2017-05-15T14:28:13-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">May 15, 2017<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community, On Saturday night, at a campus party hosted by the Women of Color student group, there was an incident between a student, staff who serve as event support assistants, and security officers. Because of&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2017\/02\/10\/update-on-dean-of-faculty-transition-and-search\/\">Update on Dean of Faculty Transition and Search<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Clayton Spencer<\/div><time datetime=\"2017-02-10T08:00:18-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">February 10, 2017<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">I write to share my thinking and seek your advice about the transition in the Dean of Faculty role.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2017\/01\/30\/statement-on-executive-order-regarding-immigration\/\">Statement on Executive Order Regarding Immigration<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2017-01-30T11:36:33-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">January 30, 2017<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community, This past Friday, President Trump signed an executive order that, among other things, bans nationals from seven countries, including Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen from entering the U.S. for at least&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2017\/01\/18\/response-to-open-letter-regarding-undocumented-students\/\">Response to Open Letter Regarding Undocumented Students<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2017-01-18T06:00:50-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">January 18, 2017<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">In early December, The Bates Student printed an open letter asking the Bates administration to announce the measures we will take to protect the rights and status of undocumented students and seek \u201cofficial status as a sanctuary campus for undocumented&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__featured-image alignleft\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2016\/11\/30\/message-to-the-bates-community\/\" aria-label=\"A message to the Bates community\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"185\" height=\"220\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/bobcat-secondary-thumb2rev.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" style=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/bobcat-secondary-thumb2rev.jpg 185w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/bobcat-secondary-thumb2rev-168x200.webp 168w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 185px) 100vw, 185px\" \/><\/a><\/div><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2016\/11\/30\/message-to-the-bates-community\/\">A message to the Bates community<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2016-11-30T15:25:30-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">November 30, 2016<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Dear Members of the Bates Community, I hope Thanksgiving provided time with family and friends and an opportunity for restoration after an intense couple of months. As we head into the final sprint to winter break, I want to follow&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__featured-image alignleft\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2016\/11\/28\/katie-vale-passing\/\" aria-label=\"The passing of Katie Vale\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"185\" height=\"220\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/bobcat-secondary-thumb2rev.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" style=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/bobcat-secondary-thumb2rev.jpg 185w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/bobcat-secondary-thumb2rev-168x200.webp 168w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 185px) 100vw, 185px\" \/><\/a><\/div><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2016\/11\/28\/katie-vale-passing\/\">The passing of Katie Vale<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2016-11-28T15:30:51-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">November 28, 2016<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">I write to share the shocking and profoundly sad news that Katie Vale, our vice president for information and library services and librarian, died yesterday, Sunday, November 27, after suffering cardiac arrest.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__featured-image alignleft\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2016\/11\/09\/a-message-to-the-bates-community\/\" aria-label=\"A message to the Bates community\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"185\" height=\"220\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/bobcat-secondary-thumb2rev.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" style=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/bobcat-secondary-thumb2rev.jpg 185w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/bobcat-secondary-thumb2rev-168x200.webp 168w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 185px) 100vw, 185px\" \/><\/a><\/div><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2016\/11\/09\/a-message-to-the-bates-community\/\">A message to the Bates community<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2016-11-09T15:55:31-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">November 9, 2016<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Last night marked the end of one of the most divisive and vitriolic presidential campaigns in recent U.S. history.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__featured-image alignleft\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2016\/11\/07\/information-about-election-day-and-registering-to-vote\/\" aria-label=\"Information about Election Day and registering to vote\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"185\" height=\"220\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/bobcat-secondary-thumb2rev.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" style=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/bobcat-secondary-thumb2rev.jpg 185w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/bobcat-secondary-thumb2rev-168x200.webp 168w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 185px) 100vw, 185px\" \/><\/a><\/div><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2016\/11\/07\/information-about-election-day-and-registering-to-vote\/\">Information about Election Day and registering to vote<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2016-11-07T09:58:03-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">November 7, 2016<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">This weekend, a flyer was circulated on the Bates campus with false information about tomorrow\u2019s election and what our students need to do to register to vote.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__featured-image alignleft\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2016\/09\/19\/community-letter\/\" aria-label=\"Bates Community Letter: Fall 2016\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"185\" height=\"220\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/bobcat-secondary-thumb2rev.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" style=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/bobcat-secondary-thumb2rev.jpg 185w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/bobcat-secondary-thumb2rev-168x200.webp 168w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 185px) 100vw, 185px\" \/><\/a><\/div><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2016\/09\/19\/community-letter\/\">Bates Community Letter: Fall 2016<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2016-09-19T10:21:35-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">September 19, 2016<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">With opening days behind us, the Class of 2020 duly welcomed, and new and returning students ensconced in their dorms, classes, and activities, I write to share news from campus and provide a preview of the year ahead.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2015\/11\/13\/letter-to-the-campus-community\/\">Letter to the campus community<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2015-11-13T15:09:49-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">November 13, 2015<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">I write in response to events that are happening on campuses across the nation and to make you aware of a unique opportunity for considered conversation on race and inclusiveness in higher education that is happening on the Bates campus this weekend.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2015\/10\/04\/remarks-at-the-inauguration-of-valerie-smith-president-of-swarthmore-college\/\">Remarks at the inauguration of Valerie Smith, president of Swarthmore College<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2015-10-04T13:59:32-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">October 4, 2015<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">In Val Smith, you have chosen an inspired and inspiring leader.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2015\/09\/09\/co-creating-our-world-remarks-at-convocation-sept-8-2015\/\">\u2018Co-Creating Our World\u2019: Remarks at Convocation, Sept. 8, 2015<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2015-09-09T13:55:04-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">September 9, 2015<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">This morning we call you together to constitute you formally as the Class of 2019 and to mark your entry into the academic community. <\/div><\/li>\n<li><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__featured-image alignleft\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2015\/09\/01\/bates-community-letter-fall-2015\/\" aria-label=\"Bates Community Letter: Fall 2015\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"286\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/A1_120402_Clayton_Spencer_0602-286x400.webp\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"President Clayton Spencer\" style=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/A1_120402_Clayton_Spencer_0602-286x400.webp 286w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/A1_120402_Clayton_Spencer_0602-643x900.webp 643w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/A1_120402_Clayton_Spencer_0602-768x1074.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/A1_120402_Clayton_Spencer_0602-143x200.webp 143w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/A1_120402_Clayton_Spencer_0602-449x628.jpg 449w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2012\/07\/A1_120402_Clayton_Spencer_0602.jpg 772w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 286px) 100vw, 286px\" \/><\/a><\/div><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2015\/09\/01\/bates-community-letter-fall-2015\/\">Bates Community Letter: Fall 2015<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2015-09-01T12:57:33-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">September 1, 2015<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">I write to share the sense of excitement we feel, to highlight areas of focus for the fall, and to invite your engagement with, and suggestions about, all things Bates.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2015\/06\/06\/remarks-to-bishops-university-class-of-2015\/\">Remarks to Bishop\u2019s University Class of 2015<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2015-06-06T14:49:52-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">June 6, 2015<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Chancellor, Principal and Vice-Chancellor, members of the Platform Party, graduating students, families and friends, thank you for the honor of receiving a degree from Bishop\u2019s University and for the privilege of sharing in this day of celebration. Since I arrived&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2015\/03\/09\/letter-campus-events\/\">President Clayton Spencer&#8217;s letter about recent campus events<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2015-03-09T07:00:49-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">March 9, 2015<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">I thought it might be helpful to share facts about recent events and give a sense of the principles and values that guide my thinking about how to honor what is most important about Bates as we work together to move the institution forward.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2015\/01\/19\/mlk-day-keynote-welcome-jan-19-2015\/\">Welcome remarks at MLK Day Keynote, Jan. 19, 2015<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2015-01-19T13:08:47-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">January 19, 2015<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">To state the obvious, this year\u2019s topic, \u201cFrom Selma to Ferguson: 50 years of Nonviolent Dissent,\u201d could not be more timely.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2014\/09\/02\/the-challenge-of-community-remarks-at-convocation-sept-2-2014-2\/\">\u2018The Challenge of Community\u2019: Remarks at Convocation, Sept. 2, 2014<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2014-09-02T11:27:55-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">September 2, 2014<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Good morning. Welcome to the opening convocation of this new academic year. Members of the faculty, welcome back after what I hope has been a restorative summer. Welcome, members of the staff&nbsp;\u2014 it is exciting to see so many of&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2014\/08\/27\/bates-community-letter-fall-2014\/\">Bates Community Letter: Fall 2014<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2014-08-27T10:43:57-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">August 27, 2014<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">I write to share news and plans at the start of a new academic year, my third as president of the college. As I have said before, serving Bates as president is a source of great personal joy, even as we tackle inevitable challenges. Every day I am struck by the dedication of our faculty, the energy of our students, the pride of our staff, and the solidarity and support of alumni, parents, and friends in sustaining the work and sense of common feeling that make Bates such an extraordinary college and community.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2014\/01\/21\/statement-on-climate-change-and-divestment\/\">President Clayton Spencer&#8217;s statement on climate change and divestment<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2014-01-21T08:00:10-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">January 21, 2014<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">I write to outline important aspects of our institutional response to the urgent problem of climate change and to address the question of whether the college should divest its endowment from the fossil fuel industry.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2014\/01\/10\/statement-on-the-boycott-of-israeli-academic-institutions\/\">President Clayton Spencer&#8217;s statement on the boycott of Israeli academic institutions<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2014-01-10T13:10:54-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">January 10, 2014<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">On behalf of Bates College, I reject unequivocally the boycott of Israeli universities that was recently passed by a majority of the members of the American Studies Association.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__featured-image alignleft\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2013\/09\/09\/president-spencers-community-letter-fall-2013\/\" aria-label=\"Bates Community Letter: Fall 2013\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"225\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2011\/11\/web_120715_Clayton_Spencer_3565b-400x225.webp\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" style=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2011\/11\/web_120715_Clayton_Spencer_3565b-400x225.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2011\/11\/web_120715_Clayton_Spencer_3565b-900x506.webp 900w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2011\/11\/web_120715_Clayton_Spencer_3565b-768x432.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2011\/11\/web_120715_Clayton_Spencer_3565b-200x113.webp 200w, https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/files\/2011\/11\/web_120715_Clayton_Spencer_3565b.jpg 960w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><\/div><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2013\/09\/09\/president-spencers-community-letter-fall-2013\/\">Bates Community Letter: Fall 2013<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2013-09-09T17:10:14-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">September 9, 2013<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">I write to share with you developments at the college as we welcome the Class of 2017 and begin a new academic year.<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2013\/09\/03\/remarks-at-convocation-september-2013\/\">&#8216;Some Thoughts on Work&#8217;: Remarks at Convocation, Sept. 3, 2013<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2013-09-03T19:37:36-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">September 3, 2013<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Thank you, Brent, and thank you, Matt, for those very thoughtful reflections. I am going to direct my remarks today in particular to you, our first-year students, and I want to speak about a subject that you might expect to&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2012\/10\/26\/president-clayton-spencers-inaugural-address\/\">&#8216;Questions Worth Asking&#8217;: President Clayton Spencer&#8217;s Inaugural Address, Oct. 26, 2012<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2012-10-26T14:48:16-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">October 26, 2012<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Well, I guess now I really am the eighth president of Bates College. It is an enormous honor and a humbling trust. Thank you Mike, Marcus, Umar, Lynn, and Danny for making it official. And thank you, Drew, for those&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2012\/09\/04\/remarks-at-convocation-september-2012\/\">Remarks at Convocation: Sept. 4, 2012<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2012-09-04T14:47:35-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">September 4, 2012<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Welcome back, faculty, staff and returning students, to the beginning of a new year. And welcome, Class of 2016, to the Bates community. As I mentioned to you on Saturday, I feel a special bond with you, as I am&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2012\/01\/25\/video-remarks-from-president-clayton-spencer\/\">Video remarks from President Clayton Spencer<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Bates College<\/div><time datetime=\"2012-01-25T14:45:02-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">January 25, 2012<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Watch video remarks from Bates&#8217; eighth President, Clayton Spencer Educating the whole person: http:\/\/vimeo.com\/33037362 Why Bates? http:\/\/vimeo.com\/33028273 The liberal arts: Bates as an educational leader: http:\/\/vimeo.com\/33002361 Diversity and excellence: http:\/\/vimeo.com\/33002146 Access and affordability: http:\/\/vimeo.com\/33000827 Leadership: http:\/\/vimeo.com\/32999750 The late Peter Gomes&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/2011\/12\/09\/president-elect-clayton-spencers-first-remarks\/\">President-elect Clayton Spencer&#8217;s first remarks<\/a><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-author\">by Clayton Spencer<\/div><time datetime=\"2011-12-09T14:43:35-04:00\" class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-date\">December 9, 2011<\/time><div class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-excerpt\">Remarks by President-elect Clayton Spencer on Dec. 4, 2011, following her introduction by Mike Bonney &#8217;80, chair of the Bates Board of Trustees: Wow. Thank you so much. Mike, thank you for your overly generous words \u2014 I was sitting&hellip;<\/div><\/li>\n<\/ul>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":614,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","template":"","meta":{"_hide_ai_chatbot":false,"_ai_chatbot_style":"","associated_faculty":[],"_Page_Specific_Css":"","_bates_restrict_mod":false,"_dimp_site_id":"","_dimp_override_contact":false,"_table_of_contents_display":false,"_table_of_contents_location":"","_table_of_contents_disableSticky":false,"_is_featured":false,"footnotes":"","_bates_seo_meta_description":"","_bates_seo_block_robots":false,"_bates_seo_sharing_image_id":0,"_bates_seo_sharing_image_twitter_id":0,"_bates_seo_share_title":"","_bates_seo_canonical_overwrite":"","_bates_seo_twitter_template":""},"class_list":["post-876","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/876","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=876"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/876\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3145,"href":"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/876\/revisions\/3145"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/614"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/clayton-spencer\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=876"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}