L-r: Richard Mersereau ’69, Alvin Hall ’74, Chris Omachi ’12, Saddie Smith ’75, Michael T. Sullivan ’94, Mary Ann Villari ’75, Gabriele Caroti ’97, Lewis Salas ’13, Ellen Baxter ’75.
The group members are all known for their support of the nonprofit Broadway Housing Communities (BHC), which established the museum in the fall of 2015 as part of the larger Sugar Hill project, offering affordable housing and early childhood education in a low-income area.
The museum provides for cultural programs, educational needs, and artistic engagement for young children, as well as tuition-free preschool for the community.
BHC was founded in 1983 by Ellen Baxter ’75, who was present at the gathering. In 1994, Baxter received Bowdoin’s Common Good Award for her commitment to fighting homelessness. Joining Baxter at the celebration were retired BHC board members Richard Merserseau ’69 and Saddie Smith ’75, along with current board members Christopher Omachi ’12 and Michael T. Sullivan ’94.
“I think it’s fair to say that your support, both individually and collectively, has been instrumental to the success of Ellen’s vision for over 40 years—and far into the future,” said BHC Interim Development Director Melissa Benson in an email to the alumni.
Other polar bears who have helped BHC and the children’s museum over the years include George Khaldun ’73 (winner of the 2025 Common Good Award), Barbara Tarmy ’75, Roman Jackson ’06, and Christiana Whitcomb ’14.