In 2025, Bates College’s social media presence saw significant engagement, with more than 1,500 posts across platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and TikTok. The college reported a total of 10.58 million impressions and reached 5.68 million users, resulting in over 259,000 engagements and more than 700,000 video views.
Among the most notable moments was an Instagram post featuring images of the aurora borealis over campus by Hannah Kothari ’26. This post became the 11th most-viewed of the year with over 53,000 views and was highlighted as an honorable mention.
The list of top posts also included announcements like the Office of Admission’s decision to waive the $65 application fee for Fall 2025 applicants. The news was widely shared within the community.
A story about Jose Carmona ’25 and his connection with a local Lewiston resident resonated with both the Bates and Lewiston-Auburn communities, reaching nearly 55,000 unique users on Facebook.
Athletics featured prominently in engagement numbers. A football game celebrating the program’s 150th anniversary drew attention after a comeback win in double overtime. Another high-performing post celebrated Bates Field Hockey’s first NESCAC Championship after defeating Wesleyan.
Alumni achievements were also popular topics. Perla Figuereo ’21’s victory on Netflix’s “Squid Game: The Challenge” generated significant excitement among followers. Similarly, Laura Poppick ’10 received recognition for her debut book “Strata,” which was featured in Rolling Stone.
The arrival of new students each fall remains a highlight for the community. In August, a post about welcoming the incoming class—including Dean James Reese moving his son into Adams Hall—garnered strong engagement.
A scavenger hunt trend involving a maple tree outside Hedge Hall also attracted attention from students and alumni alike.
Commencement content ranked highest in reach and engagement. Angela Duckworth’s address to graduates provided advice on managing phone use and social media distractions—a message that resonated widely online. An Instagram reel featuring Duckworth received nearly 364,000 views and over 38,000 engagements; the full YouTube video surpassed 430,000 views with more than 23,000 engagements.
These results reflect how campus events, student achievements, athletics victories, alumni successes, and thoughtful commentary continue to drive online interest for Bates College throughout the year.
