Young Alumni Leadership Program

Story posted March 10, 2011

On Thursday, January 27, President Mills ’72 spoke the Young Alumni Leadership Program’s core group about his role as President of Bowdoin College. Barry Mills became Bowdoin’s 14^th president in October of 2001 and since then has worked tirelessly to reform Bowdoin’s curriculum, increase diversity at the College, enhance Bowdoin’s national visibility, build art programs and developments, expand financial aid, and to further establish Bowdoin’s commitment to sustainability.

President Mills briefly touched on his background and previous occupations, but claimed that nothing has been more rewarding or enjoyable as his position as President of Bowdoin College. President Mills explained that his job mainly consists of maintaining connections, networking, and fundraising for the College. President Mills spoke of his commitment to expanding programs, diversity, and financial aid at Bowdoin, while retaining the same degree of excellence we currently hold.  He pointed to the importance of building Bowdoin’s reputation and national visibility through Alumni giving. President Mills stressed the significance of high alumni participation rates, and emphasized that all donations have an impact on Bowdoin, no matter the size of the donation.

During the Question and Answer session following his speech, Mills offered open and honest responses to questions surrounding Bowdoin’s size, the acquisition Brunswick Naval Air Station, Bowdoin’s faculty, allotting credit to laboratory courses, tuition, the percentage of Maine students at Bowdoin, and vocational courses at Bowdoin. His inviting and open demeanor shone through, and President Mills reminded students that his door is always open to anyone who needs advice or has any questions. President Mills has played a crucial role in developing Bowdoin into the remarkable institution it is today and his insightful comments left YALP members with a better understanding of the college’s inner workings.