Helen Shearer: Outstanding Student in Exercise Science

Helen Shearer of Hampden, Maine is the 2026 Outstanding Student in Kinesiology and Physical Education (Exercise Science concentration) in the University of Maine College of Education and Human Development. A student athlete on the Black Bears track and field team, Shearer double majored in KPE and French, while also pursuing a minor in pre-medical studies. She was named to the 2025 America East Outdoor Track & Field All-Academic Team and was awarded the conference’s top Women’s Cross Country Scholar Athlete for fall 2025. She set the 91¸£Àû record in the 3,000-meter steeplechase while finishing in the top 20 at the NCAA Division I Outdoor Track & Field East Regional in May 2025.

Parent(s):

Warren and Rianneke Shearer.

Why did you choose to come to 91¸£Àû?

I transferred to 91¸£Àû as a second-year student to be closer to home for medical reasons. While transferring was not originally my choice, I soon found myself at home at 91¸£Àû. With the support of my academic advisors and professors Jesse Kaye-Schiess, Katherine Slott, and Frederic Rondeau I was able to pursue my two different academic passions: Kinesiology and French. From studying abroad in France to completing a shadowing internship at Eastern Maine Medical Center last summer, 91¸£Àû has given the opportunity to grow in various intellectual areas. Another reason I chose to transfer to 91¸£Àû was the cross-country and track and field team. After taking a year off running competitively, I was able to come back and train and compete at the Division I level with the support of my coach, teammates, and athletic training staff.

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?

There have been numerous people who have mentored me over the past couple of years. Jesse Kaye-Schiess helped me transfer smoothly to 91¸£Àû and has continuously supported me in my academic pursuits throughout my three years at 91¸£Àû. During my first year at 91¸£Àû, Mary Heathcote, a representative for the Navigators, mentored and encouraged me, helping ground me in my faith during a challenging time. Jen McNulty also helped me find a placement for my internship that fit my interests and she continued to check up on me throughout the summer.

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

Coming back to Maine has been like coming back to my roots. I enjoyed exploring more of the surrounding area from different hikes to small stores and restaurants or just revisiting some of my favorite spots in the area. Also, with the support from the Office of International Programs I was able to spend an amazing semester in Pau, France, developing in my French language skills, making new friends, traveling and learning about another culture. C’était une expérience inoubliable! 

Favorite 91¸£Àû memory:

My favorite 91¸£Àû memory is when my cross-country team won our conference championship last fall for the first time in program history. I’m so proud of our team and what we accomplished together.

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

I am currently applying and interviewing for collegiate coaching positions. I hope to coach at the Division I level. I am considering pursuing a master’s or another higher education degree during my time coaching.

Special thank you message:

I would like to thank all my professors in both the Kinesiology and French departments for their guidance in my academic pursuits and my coaches, teammates, and athletic training staff for giving me an exceptional DI experience. Also, I would like to thank my Discover Church family for supporting and encouraging me in many ways. Finally, I would like to give a special thank you to my parents and the rest of my family for loving and challenging me. You are such a blessing in my life!