Sylvia Valentin: Dean’s Award

Sylvia Valentin of St. Paul, Minnesota is the 2026 recipient of the Dean’s Award from the University of Maine College of Education and Human Development. This award recognizes a student who has overcome significant challenges along the path to graduation, who is dedicated to their field and shows perseverance and commitment to their program. The road to success is often not clear, or easy, but students who are recognized with the Dean’s Award find a way to do what is needed and rise to the challenge. Valentin is graduating with a degree in Elementary Education and a concentration in Child Development. She started working as an educational technician at Asa Adams Elementary School in Orono while completing her student teaching, and recently accepted a position as a kindergarten teacher at Vine Street School in Bangor.

Why did you choose to come to 91¸£Àû?

I chose to come to 91¸£Àû because it reminded me of home state, Minnesota, and I was seeking a grounded environment. After looking into the education program at 91¸£Àû, I was impressed by the resources available to students, such as ample field experience opportunities. It was very important to me to receive an education that I was confident would set me up for success in my career. I decided to reach out to the Advising Center in the College of Education and Human Development and had such a positive experience meeting who would be my future advisors over Zoom.

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?

My most impactful mentor would have to be Faith Erhardt, who is the Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Student Success. She has provided me with meaningful guidance and support that helped me navigate my academic and life journey as a young adult. The College of Education and Human Development is really lucky to have someone who is truly invested in the success and well-being of students. Faith was the person I went to when I needed help picking up pieces and making a plan. I strive to spread the same kindness and humanity she showed me as I enter the field as a professional. Erin Straine, Executive Director of Educator Preparation, also had a significant impact on my journey. She paved the way for me to simultaneously work as an Ed Tech 3 in special education at a local elementary school and fulfill my student teaching requirements. I am grateful that Erin was committed to making this huge opportunity accessible to me, as it supported several areas of my life. 

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

I didn’t realize it until I got closer to graduating, but 91¸£Àû provided me with so many connections and roots that have led to my decision to reside here. My first field placement was through the Town of Orono’s after-school program and summer camp called RAD. From starting as an observer/volunteer to working as a lead counselor, over the past 4 years, I have become familiar with town members and have been active within the community. It is such a gift to find belonging and proudly be a part of something bigger than myself. 91¸£Àû provided me with a community beyond the campus.

Favorite 91¸£Àû memory:

My favorite memories at 91¸£Àû include quiet floor library sessions with Kahlysta, looking for turtles in the campus garden, and walks/catching frogs at night with Hadley. I also had a blast with my roommates when 91¸£Àû brought Trippie Redd for a homecoming concert.

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

I am so thrilled to share that after graduation, I will be working as a kindergarten teacher in the Bangor School Department. Julie Ireland, Field Experience Coordinator and my student teaching seminar instructor, was very helpful in guiding me through the application and interview process this past March. Being able to secure a job before graduation would not have been as attainable without the support and experiences I had access to throughout my learning.
 
After the school year ends, I will be moving the rest of my belongings from Minnesota to Maine and prepping for my first year of teaching! My best friend Justine, who is a third-year teacher, will also be moving with me, and I am excited to have her support during my first year. I can’t wait to apply what I’ve learned to create a safe and positive learning environment for my future kindergarteners. I feel so fortunate to look forward to a job where I get to help other humans and make learning accessible to all.

Special thank you message:

I’d like to give a sentimental thank you to my Asa Adams School community. I can’t imagine myself going into teaching without all of the invaluable skills, knowledge, and experiences you taught and shared with me. Thank you for seeing my potential, challenging me, being patient with me, and making me feel seen. Not to be dramatic, but you’ve impacted my life greatly.
 
Additional shoutouts to Bettina Burgess, Cassandra Henri (mentor), Kathy Blais, John Curry, Kim Oldenburgh, Maggie Auxier, Karen Grindle, Kelley Dill, Suzanne Neville, Annie Boitz, Sofia Rivera, Emily Ernst, Angie McLaughlin, Jodi Puleo, Victoria Howe, Kahlysta Morris, and Justine Cobbett. I value and admire each of you dearly.