LEWISTON, Maine - The Bates College community raised a grand total of $32,296 for the 16th annual Dempsey Challenge, held last Saturday in actor Patrick Dempsey's hometown of Lewiston.
The Dempsey Challenge is the major fundraiser for the Dempsey Center, an organization dedicated to making life better for people impacted by cancer. Through the efforts of students, faculty, and staff, Bates won the College Cup, which goes to the college that raises the most money each year.
"I am incredibly proud of the Bates College community and our student-athletes for their remarkable turnout Saturday," Associate Director of Athletics Adrienne Shibles '91 said. "As a cancer survivor, I understand firsthand the invaluable support the Dempsey Center offers to patients and their families. Our fundraising efforts will make a meaningful difference for Mainers facing immense challenges."
Bates athletics played a key role in the fundraiser, led by the rowing team, which raised $6,020. The women's lacrosse team ranked second with $5,929 raised, and the alpine skiing team came in third among Bates varsity sports at $3,460.
The rowing team's efforts hit close to home, as one of their own, Jack Stephenson '26 of Oreland, Pa. (in the main photo shaking handes with Patrick Dempsey), currently has cancer.
"The rowing team has been especially driven to support community members battling cancer, as their own teammate continues to bravely endure treatment for the illness while at Bates," Shibles said. "Jack's resilience has inspired us all, and it was a true honor to see him accept the College Cup on Bates' behalf."
This marks the fourth straight year that Bates has won the College Cup.
About the Dempsey Challenge
The Dempsey Challenge is an annual run/walk/ride experience to benefit the Dempsey Center. With two physical centers in Lewiston and South Portland, Maine, and the third, virtual center—
Dempsey Connects, which launched in 2020—their specially-trained team of experts provides curated, holistic care to people impacted by cancer in Maine and beyond. Founded by actor Patrick Dempsey in 2009, this flagship fundraising event has raised over $18 million for the Dempsey Center since its inception, with 100% of all funds raised going directly to client care.
