Bates College Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Bates College has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and student leadership.

Driven by a commitment to human dignity and diversity, Bates College upholds academic rigor and fosters opportunities for qualified learners of all backgrounds, linking education with service and leadership.

Leadership Roles at Bates College

  • President - Donald Harward
  • President - Ryan Harding
  • President & Co Captain - Leah Brouda
  • Senior Co-Chair President - Alaina Rauf
  • Co President - Anna Lawlor
  • Co-president At Bates Africana - Chidera Kalu-uka
  • President, Bates Engineering Society - Fraol Nigusse
  • Co-President - Sophia Cocchiarella
  • President - Katherine Bither
  • Team Captain - Harrison Nash
  • Donald Harward - President

    Donald Harward, the President at Bates College, directs the institution's strategic vision and overall academic mission. Overseeing all facets of college operations, Donald Harward ensures alignment with the founding principles of human dignity and diversity. This leadership role involves fostering an environment of academic rigor and promoting opportunities for learners from all backgrounds. By championing initiatives that link education with service and leadership, Donald Harward directly impacts the college's commitment to its students and the broader community. The President's responsibilities extend to guiding faculty development, managing institutional resources, and representing Bates College in national and international forums. Harward's focus remains on advancing the college's reputation as a leading liberal arts institution.

    Ryan Harding - President

    Ryan Harding, the President at Bates College, drives the operational execution of the college's strategic objectives. Overseeing key administrative departments, Ryan Harding ensures the efficient functioning of campus services and academic support systems. This leadership position involves managing budgets, optimizing resource allocation, and implementing policies that uphold Bates College's commitment to academic rigor and diversity. By coordinating efforts across various divisions, Ryan Harding facilitates the seamless integration of educational programs and student life. The President's duties include fostering collaborative relationships among staff, faculty, and students, thereby strengthening the college's community fabric. Harding's efforts are critical in maintaining the institution's operational excellence and advancing its mission.

    Leah Brouda - President & Co Captain

    Leah Brouda, the President & Co Captain at Bates College, spearheads initiatives focused on student engagement and leadership development. Overseeing student organizations and activities, Leah Brouda ensures a vibrant campus life that complements academic pursuits. This dual role involves coordinating team efforts and fostering a spirit of collaboration among student leaders. By championing programs that promote diversity and inclusion, Brouda actively contributes to the college's core values. The President & Co Captain's responsibilities include representing student interests to college administration and facilitating communication channels. Leah Brouda's leadership is instrumental in empowering students to connect their educational experiences with practical leadership opportunities and community service.

    Alaina Rauf - Senior Co-Chair President

    Alaina Rauf, the Senior Co-Chair President at Bates College, directs strategic planning for key student initiatives. Overseeing the coordination of multiple student leadership groups, Alaina Rauf ensures cohesive efforts toward common goals. This position involves guiding the development and implementation of programs that align with Bates College's commitment to academic rigor and community service. By fostering collaboration among peers, Rauf enhances the collective impact of student-led organizations. The Senior Co-Chair President's responsibilities include liaising with college officials and advocating for student needs. Alaina Rauf's leadership focuses on empowering students to take ownership of their educational journey and contribute meaningfully to campus life and beyond.

    Anna Lawlor - Co President

    Anna Lawlor, the Co President at Bates College, shares responsibility for guiding student governance and organizational development. Overseeing specific portfolios within student leadership, Anna Lawlor ensures the effective execution of initiatives that enhance campus life. This role involves collaborating closely with other student leaders to foster a dynamic and inclusive environment. By championing programs that promote academic excellence and community engagement, Lawlor supports the college's overarching mission. The Co President's duties include facilitating communication between student bodies and administrative offices. Anna Lawlor's focus is on empowering students to develop leadership skills and contribute to the college's legacy of service.

    Chidera Kalu-uka - Co-president At Bates Africana

    Chidera Kalu-uka, the Co-president At Bates Africana at Bates College, leads efforts to promote cultural understanding and community engagement within the Africana studies context. Overseeing programming and outreach activities, Chidera Kalu-uka ensures that student voices and perspectives are amplified. This leadership role involves fostering an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and encourages dialogue. By organizing events and initiatives, Kalu-uka directly supports the college's commitment to human dignity and academic rigor. The Co-president At Bates Africana's responsibilities include collaborating with faculty and students to enrich the educational experience. Chidera Kalu-uka's dedication is vital in connecting students with opportunities for service and leadership rooted in cultural appreciation.

    Fraol Nigusse - President, Bates Engineering Society

    Fraol Nigusse, the President, Bates Engineering Society at Bates College, leads initiatives to advance engineering education and professional development for students. Overseeing society operations and event planning, Fraol Nigusse ensures the delivery of valuable resources and networking opportunities. This role involves fostering collaboration among engineering students and faculty, promoting academic excellence in technical fields. By organizing workshops and guest lectures, Nigusse enhances the practical learning experience and connects students with industry insights. The President, Bates Engineering Society's responsibilities include representing the society's interests and promoting STEM engagement. Fraol Nigusse's leadership is key to empowering future engineers and reinforcing the college's commitment to rigorous academic pursuits.

    Sophia Cocchiarella - Co-President

    Sophia Cocchiarella, the Co-President at Bates College, collaborates on guiding student affairs and enhancing campus community initiatives. Overseeing specific operational areas within student leadership, Sophia Cocchiarella ensures the effective implementation of programs designed to enrich student life. This position involves working closely with fellow student leaders to cultivate an environment that supports academic rigor and personal development. By championing initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion, Cocchiarella actively contributes to the college's core mission. The Co-President's duties include facilitating communication between student groups and college administration. Sophia Cocchiarella's focus is on empowering students to engage actively in their educational journey and contribute to the college's legacy.

    Katherine Bither - President

    Katherine Bither, the President at Bates College, directs the strategic direction and operational oversight of key student-led organizations. Overseeing multiple committees and initiatives, Katherine Bither ensures the effective coordination of activities that align with the college's mission. This leadership role involves fostering an environment of collaboration and academic excellence among student members. By championing programs that promote community engagement and service, Bither reinforces Bates College's commitment to developing well-rounded individuals. The President's responsibilities include managing resources, representing the organization to college leadership, and guiding strategic planning. Katherine Bither's focus is on empowering students to develop leadership skills and make meaningful contributions to campus life.

    Harrison Nash - Team Captain

    Harrison Nash, the Team Captain at Bates College, directs the strategic execution of team objectives and fosters a culture of athletic excellence. Overseeing player development and on-field performance, Harrison Nash ensures adherence to rigorous training protocols. This leadership position involves motivating team members and promoting sportsmanship, aligning with the college's values of academic rigor and personal growth. By coordinating team strategies and fostering camaraderie, Nash enhances the collective performance and spirit of the team. The Team Captain's responsibilities include serving as a liaison between athletes and coaching staff, advocating for team needs. Harrison Nash's commitment is crucial in developing student-athletes who embody leadership and dedication both on and off the field.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Bates College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Bates College?
    Bates College is led by Donald Harward (President), along with executives such as Ryan Harding (President) and Leah Brouda (President & Co Captain).
    Who is part of Bates College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Bates College includes leaders such as Donald Harward (President), Ryan Harding (President), Leah Brouda (President & Co Captain) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Bates College have?
    Bates College has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Bates College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Bates College includes roles such as President, President, President & Co Captain, Senior Co-Chair President, Co President.