Stories from 2026
‘Be You, Bravely’: Stephanie Kelley-Romano’s Baccalaureate speech
Thursday, June 4, 2026 1:22 pm
Each year the graduating class at Bates picks a faculty or staff person to offer the Baccalaureate Address. The Class of 2026 selected Professor of Rhetoric, Film, and Screen Studies Stephanie Kelley-Romano.
‘A beautiful thing’: Stalwarts on the sidelines at Bates Commencement
Thursday, June 4, 2026 1:20 pm
For many, Commencement is a one-and-done visit. For others in the audience — local alumni, retirees, and Lewiston friends — it’s an annual touchstone, rich with memories, friendships, and purpose.
Picture Story: Commencement 2026
Thursday, June 4, 2026 12:56 pm
On Sunday, May 31, 2026, 480 Bates students became Bates alumni, ready to face uncertainty with the support of the lessons they’ve learned at Bates, both in and out of the classroom.
Commencement 2026: Into the future with heart, humanity, and curiosity
Sunday, May 31, 2026 5:45 pm
The skies were changeable but the mood was resoundingly upbeat on Sunday, May 31, as 480 members of the Class of 2026 celebrated their Bates graduation surrounded by family and friends, and bolstered by speeches that dwelled on bright promises, both those already delivered and those to come.
Built by Bates: Oh, the places they’ll go!
Friday, May 29, 2026 4:25 pm
As we celebrate our graduating seniors, wishing each of them the very best in what is ahead, we are highlighting some Bates students who are already turning the page to their exciting next chapters. Read ahead to learn about 14 Batesies with a range of experiences awaiting them.
Free (laundry) for all!
Friday, May 29, 2026 3:31 pm
Persistent student engagement led to a change in the cost of laundry on campus. Thanks to their advocacy, laundry will now be free to all students at Bates.
Q&A: Senior speaker Sebenele Lukhele embraces Bates’ promise of celebrating differences
Friday, May 29, 2026 3:02 pm
Sebenele Lukhele ’26 of Manzini, Eswatini, will deliver the Senior Address at the 160th Commencement on Sunday, May 31.
Two Bates Faculty named Fulbright Fellows
Friday, May 29, 2026 1:28 pm
Elena Maker Castro, assistant professor of psychology, and Michel Droge, visiting assistant professor of art and visual culture, have both earned Fulbright fellowships for the 2026-2027 academic year.
Commencement 2026 Preview: Know before you go (or stream)
Friday, May 29, 2026 1:22 pm
On Sunday May 31, 2026, at its 160th Commencement, Bates will graduate 480 members of the Class of 2026, confer three honorary degrees, and hear remarks from speakers including honorand Deborah Harkness, historian and best-selling author of the All Souls series of novels.
Take a seat: 2026 ivy stone highlights community gathering at Bates
Thursday, May 28, 2026 3:48 pm
For Mia Wetzel ’26 of Mashpee, Mass., the Adirondack chairs on Bates' Historic Quad evoke a feeling of community representative of her Bates experience. That’s why she chose to depict them in her design for this year’s ivy stone.