Elizabeth Sheppard named director of alumni relations at Bates

Auburn resident Elizabeth K. Sheppard is the new director of alumni relations at Bates College, Vice President for Alumni Affairs and External Relations William W. Hiss recently announced.

Sheppard oversees project and staff management for the alumni relations office, in addition to continuing her role as director of major events for the college. She also works closely with the development, college relations and career services offices at Bates.

“Beth’s skills in creating and managing complicated events and projects are legendary,” said Hiss. “She has been invaluable in her sound judgment, energetic and affectionate relationships with alumni, and wonderful imagination about how to best serve and involve alumni.”

Sheppard was promoted to director after serving as coordinator of special events and alumni/development projects from May 2000 through September 2001.  From 1988 until 2000, she served Bates as director of special projects and summer programs, running a full summer schedule and managing all of the large on-campus events for the Office of the President.

Sheppard served as assistant director of development and then director of public relations and publications at Emma Willard School from 1982 to 1985, followed by two-years as project manager and editor at Northeastern University. She received her B.A. in English, with honors, from Smith College.
Sheppard’s promotion is part of a significant step in the strengthening of resources and skills in alumni relations at Bates. Over the last 18 months, the college has created the new position of vice president for external and alumni affairs, expanded the alumni relations staff from four to seven, revitalized the alumni relations Web site with an online alumni directory, and linked the office with career services and college relations.

Sheppard lives in Auburn with her family. She is vice president of the Auburn Public Library Board of Trustees, a Maine Music society volunteer and an Odyssey of the Mind coach for Webster Intermediate School.