In Memory of Dr. Mark Bateman

Dr. Mark Bateman, co-founder and visionary for College Choice Foundation, passed away on November 16, 2023 leaving a void that weighs heavily on our hearts. Mark suffered from the progressive brain disorder corticobasal degeneration for more than a decade. This diagnosis made significant demands on his life and well-being, eventually claiming his professorial career. But anyone who knew Mark knew he would never accede to discouragement or defeat. He determined early in his illness not to allow the diagnosis to prevent him from living a full life or from impacting the lives of others. It was in graduate school that Mark brainstormed a CCF-like mission, and we are committed to carrying forward his vision for the Bateman Scholars Program and ensuring that the impact he made continues to thrive.

Mark was an extraordinary individual, and his indelible legacy will continue through the lives he directly or indirectly touched. Mark had a profound passion for working with CCF students, instilling in them the belief that they could achieve anything they set their minds to. His favorite saying was, "You have no idea how big your world can be."

A few years ago we named our main program after Mark to honor his legacy with CCF. As a result, our students will forever be known as a Bateman Scholar, carrying forward his dream and the spirit of his vision.

Thank you for making a donation in Mark's memory to the Bateman Scholars Program. Mark will be profoundly missed, but his influence and spirit will persist in the endeavors we undertake in his memory through the Bateman Scholars Program. (Please include your mailing address in the payment link so the family can show their gratitude).

Messages to Mark before he passed away from his CCF Family: https://app.memento.com/oIv-9J4Go8/group-video

Mark met me out of his own good will to help a stranger and empowered a kid who didn’t know they needed it. My world is bigger because of Mark’s impact, my vocation has more meaning because of Mark’s impact, and my life has clearer direction because of Mark’s impact. (Sean Conboy, Boston College graduate, CCF alumni, CCF Class of 2016)

Mark gave me the option to go forth and choose my life unapologetically! It all started with my college choice. Now I can adult with freedom! (Laura Mbogo, Centre College graduate, CCF alumni, CCF Class of 2016)

Mark Bateman helped me compile a list of colleges all around the US, and helped me narrow down the ones that would fit me best. He also helped me with preparation for the ACT test. He was so kind and patient when I got the chance to work with him. Mark will be missed so much! (Jessica Mau, Trinity University graduate, CCF alumni, CCF Class of 2018)

Mr. Mark changed my life. He not only changed my life but my family’s as well. His belief in my potential is what encouraged me to apply to a school like Yale, a school I never thought I would have been able to attend, and to eventually attend once I got accepted. His passion for helping students do the impossible and find their college fit will forever empower me to push barriers and help others. I could never thank him enough for the words of wisdom and encouragement that he spoke to me (and instilled in me) every time he saw me. He meant and means a lot to my family and I, and I’m incredibly saddened by this loss. (Jillian Jolly, Yale University graduate, CCF alumni, CCF Class of 2019)

He was an amazing man. The vision he had is the reason why I was able to attend Boston College. The vision of the foundation has given me a family and support network. I am so grateful to be living the vision he had. I am inspired everyday to go into the world to take up space, forge fire and to also give back. (Nyla Bowler, Boston College, CCF Class of 2021)

Dr. Bateman was an incredible man. The Bateman Scholars program and him personally helped me find a college that was the perfect fit for me; he and the program have transformed countless lives. His passion for education and willingness to assist young people, however he could, changed my life for the better. I am forever grateful for Dr. Bateman’s impact and to have had the honor of knowing such a kind and generous man. (Kylan Benson, Harvard College, CCF Class of 2022)