Bates College Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

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 of Chemical Society - Isabelle Baumann
  • Senior Co-Chair President - Alaina Rauf
  • President - Garrett Pontin
  • President - Katherine Bither
  • President - Donald Harward
  • President - Garry Jenkins
  • President and Founder of Protect Our Breasts Bates Chapter - Tess Holland
  • Co-Chair President - Alyssa Lowther
  • President, Bates Engineering Society - Fraol Nigusse
  • Team Captain - Sydney Wilmot
  • Isabelle Baumann - President of Chemical Society

    Isabelle Baumann, the President of Chemical Society at Bates College, directs the society's academic and professional development initiatives. Overseeing all chapter activities, Baumann ensures alignment with the college's broader educational mission. This leadership role involves fostering a collaborative environment for students interested in chemistry, driving engagement through specialized workshops and guest lectures. By organizing research symposiums, Isabelle Baumann directly supports the advancement of chemical sciences within the Bates community. Ultimately, Baumann strengthens the academic foundation for future chemists and researchers.

    Alaina Rauf - Senior Co-Chair President

    Alaina Rauf, the Senior Co-Chair President at Bates College, spearheads the strategic direction for student governance and advocacy. Directing cross-functional student initiatives, Rauf ensures cohesive operations across various student organizations. This critical role involves liaising with college administration to champion student interests and facilitate campus-wide improvements. By fostering collaboration among student leaders, Alaina Rauf enhances the overall student experience and promotes a vibrant campus culture. Ultimately, Rauf drives student engagement and empowers the student body.

    Garrett Pontin - President

    Garrett Pontin, the President at Bates College, guides the institution's overarching strategic vision and operational framework. Directing all facets of college administration, Pontin ensures academic excellence and fiscal responsibility. This pivotal role involves fostering strong relationships with faculty, staff, and external stakeholders to advance the college's mission. By championing innovation in educational programs, Garrett Pontin enhances Bates College's standing as a leading liberal arts institution. Ultimately, Pontin secures the college's long-term sustainability and impact.

    Katherine Bither - President

    Katherine Bither, the President at Bates College, oversees the strategic implementation of academic policies and faculty development. Directing the educational curriculum, Bither ensures rigorous academic standards are maintained and enhanced. This key position involves fostering an environment conducive to scholarly research and intellectual growth for both students and faculty. By promoting interdisciplinary studies, Katherine Bither strengthens the college's commitment to a comprehensive liberal arts education. Ultimately, Bither cultivates academic distinction and supports faculty excellence.

    Donald Harward - President

    Donald Harward, the President at Bates College, drives the institution's long-term strategic planning and external relations. Directing the college's engagement with alumni and philanthropic partners, Harward secures vital resources for institutional growth. This significant role involves articulating the college's value proposition and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. By championing Bates College's legacy of service and diversity, Donald Harward strengthens its national reputation. Ultimately, Harward ensures the college's enduring commitment to its founding principles.

    Garry Jenkins - President

    Garry Jenkins, the President at Bates College, directs the institution's financial operations and resource allocation. Overseeing budget management and investment strategies, Jenkins ensures fiscal stability and supports academic priorities. This crucial position involves developing financial models that sustain the college's mission and long-term growth. By optimizing resource utilization, Garry Jenkins enhances the college's capacity to provide exceptional educational experiences. Ultimately, Jenkins safeguards the financial health of Bates College.

    Tess Holland - President and Founder of Protect Our Breasts Bates Chapter

    Tess Holland, the President and Founder of Protect Our Breasts Bates Chapter at Bates College, establishes and directs the chapter's health advocacy and awareness programs. Spearheading initiatives focused on breast health education, Holland ensures comprehensive outreach across the student body. This foundational role involves building strategic partnerships with health organizations and campus resources. By championing preventative health measures, Tess Holland empowers students with critical knowledge and promotes well-being. Ultimately, Holland cultivates a culture of proactive health management.

    Alyssa Lowther - Co-Chair President

    Alyssa Lowther, the Co-Chair President at Bates College, collaborates on student governance and campus life initiatives. Directing specific projects related to student welfare, Lowther ensures effective implementation of campus programs. This role involves coordinating with other student leaders to foster a supportive and engaging environment. By advocating for student needs, Alyssa Lowther contributes to the positive evolution of campus policies and services. Ultimately, Lowther enhances the student experience through dedicated leadership.

    Fraol Nigusse - President, Bates Engineering Society

    Fraol Nigusse, the President, Bates Engineering Society at Bates College, leads the society's technical workshops and career development events. Directing activities that bridge academic learning with practical application, Nigusse enhances student preparedness for engineering careers. This position involves fostering collaboration among engineering students and faculty. By organizing industry networking opportunities, Fraol Nigusse strengthens the society's impact on student professional growth. Ultimately, Nigusse promotes engineering excellence and innovation within the Bates community.

    Sydney Wilmot - Team Captain

    Sydney Wilmot, the Team Captain at Bates College, leads athletic team strategy and performance. Directing training regimens and game-day operations, Wilmot ensures peak physical conditioning and competitive readiness. This role involves fostering team cohesion and motivating athletes towards collective success. By embodying sportsmanship and dedication, Sydney Wilmot enhances the college's athletic program and promotes a culture of excellence. Ultimately, Wilmot drives team spirit and achieves athletic objectives.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Bates College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Bates College?
    Bates College is led by Isabelle Baumann (President of Chemical Society), along with executives such as Alaina Rauf (Senior Co-Chair President) and Garrett Pontin (President).
    Who is part of Bates College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Bates College includes leaders such as Isabelle Baumann (President of Chemical Society), Alaina Rauf (Senior Co-Chair President), Garrett Pontin (President) 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 of Chemical Society, Senior Co-Chair President, President, President, President.