Oakland, CA -

July 19, 2005

The Mills College Board of Trustees and the AAMC Board of Governors are pleased to announce that, following months of negotiations, Mills College and the Alumnae Association of Mills College have successfully reached a mutually acceptable agreement to strengthen our alumnae network.

We appreciate the efforts of everyone involved in the productive negotiations.  The cooperative spirit and genuine commitment to our mission have resulted in an agreement that responds to the needs and interests of both the College and the AAMC.

Under this agreement, the AAMC retains its independent, non-profit status. Recognizing the importance of Reinhardt Alumnae House as an alumnae home on campus, the AAMC will continue in residence there, and the College will comply with the 1948 agreement regarding maintenance and upkeep of the building.  The AAMC will continue to be responsible for running alumnae functions, including class reunions.

Beginning July 1, 2005, the College will assume operation of the Mills College Annual Fund, and the AAMC will engage only in fundraising for its own activities as outlined in the agreement.  The College will provide financial support to the AAMC on an annual basis and maintain a strong commitment to providing these resources in support of alumnae relations and functions.

We are confident that this agreement will encourage a vigorous and independent Alumnae Association so vital to the College and its alumnae, while providing a new strategic direction for fundraising. This agreement provides many new opportunities for giving and underscores the long-standing commitment of both the College and the AAMC to advancing women’s education and leadership.