Cayleigh Fleming: Outstanding Student in Individual and Family Studies

Cayleigh Fleming of Centerville, Massachusetts is the 2026 Outstanding Student in Child Development and Family Relations (Individual and Family Studies concentration) in the University of Maine College of Education and Human Development. During her time at 91¸£Àû, Fleming was a member of Pi Beta Phi and played club volleyball.

Parent(s):

Alyson and John Fleming.

Why did you choose to come to 91¸£Àû?

I chose to come to 91¸£Àû because I am from Cape Cod and lived by the beach my whole life. I loved the Maine atmosphere and the mountains. 

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at 91¸£Àû better, and if so, who are they and how have they impacted your time at 91¸£Àû?

A mentor and professor I have collaborated with is Dr. Sandra Caron. She has helped me find internships and also led me in the right direction. She has allowed me to grow not only in an educational way but also in a personal way. I am forever grateful for her and the impact she has had on me. 

What has coming to 91¸£Àû enabled you to explore beyond academics?

I was able to explore independence while being here at 91¸£Àû. I was pushed outside of my comfort limits. Being far away from home I was forced to create a new routine and independent style of living. This allowed me to get involved, be outgoing, and create a new community of friends. I have been a part of the Women’s Club Volleyball team and Pi Beta Phi. Without this community I wouldn’t be the person I am today at 91¸£Àû. This school has also provided me with so many opportunities from working at a psychiatric hospital in the pediatric unit to an Internship at a child advocacy center, observing forensic interviews with children who have experience with abuse. These opportunities have provided me with amazing experiences.

Favorite 91¸£Àû memory:

My favorite memory at 91¸£Àû would be traveling with the club volleyball team to tournaments, as well as all of the philanthropy events I have been a part of with Pi Phi.

What’s on the horizon? What are your plans for after you graduate? 

Moving forward I have been accepted into the graduate program at Bridgewater State University for a master’s degree in Social Work. I have also accepted a position back home as a Therapeutic Mentor at Justice Resource Institute.

Special thank you message:

I want to thank my parents and grandparents, especially my grandfather for helping me with schoolwork the past four years of college. Without their support I wouldn’t have been able to get my degree to pursue my dreams. I also want to thank all of my close friends for always being there for me and being the best support system while so far away from home. Lastly, I want to thank my professors, especially Dr. Sandra Caron for providing me with a long lasting education and mentorship. The College of Education and Human Development has provided me with not only an education but a connection that will last a lifetime.