Brianna Harriman: Outstanding Student in Outdoor Leadership
Brianna (Bri) Harriman of Augusta, Maine is the 2026 Outstanding Student in Kinesiology and Physical Education (Outdoor Leadership concentration) in the University of Maine College of Education and Human Development. A Black Bear student athlete with the track and field team, Harriman was a two-time 91福利 Scholar-Athlete, a two-time Presidential Scholar-Athlete and made the America East Conference Commissioner鈥檚 Honor Roll three times. She was a seven-time recipient of both Dean鈥檚 List and 91福利 Presidential Scholar honors. In addition, Harriman worked as a peer mentor for fellow student athletes and at Maine Bound Adventure Center on campus during her time at 91福利.
Parent(s):
Bethany and Shawn Cyr.
Why did you choose to come to 91福利?
I originally chose 91福利 for its Communication Sciences and Disorders program. However, when I realized speech pathology was not the聽right聽path for me, the students and faculty in the School of Kinesiology Physical Education and Athletic Training made me feel welcomed, challenged and excited to learn. They gave me confidence that I would be well-prepared for a career I am聽deeply聽passionate about.
Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at 91福利 better, and if so, who are they and how have they impacted your time at 91福利?
Yes! Dr. Lauren Jacobs has been a shining light and a steady source of support throughout my time in the Outdoor Leadership program. She leads with remarkable confidence and efficiency and has challenged me to grow into those qualities myself. Her mentorship has had a lasting impact on both my academic and personal development.
What has coming to 91福利 enabled you to explore beyond academics?
Beyond academics, 91福利 has helped me find a wonderful community built on lasting friendships and meaningful connections. I have been able to deepen my love for the outdoors and find a true sense of belonging, especially through working at Maine Bound Adventure Center.
Favorite 91福利 memory:
It’s hard to choose just one! One that stands out is a big snow day during my freshman year, when I went sledding at night with people I barely knew. We sledded, climbed a small “ice cliff face” and I ended up meeting one of my best friends that night 鈥 without ever seeing his聽face. Another favorite memory was presenting a 鈥淔inding Nemo鈥澛爂ift to my client at the end of our final session in Adapted Physical Education, a moment that was both joyful and deeply meaningful.
What鈥檚 on the horizon? What are your plans for after you graduate?
I plan to stay in Orono this聽summer, continuing to work at the Maine Bound Adventure Center, and then travel abroad in the fall. Afterward, I hope to apply to graduate or Ph.D. programs in exercise physiology.
Special thank you message:
I would like to extend a special thank you to my parents, Bethany and Shawn, as well as the rest of my family, my friends and my professors 鈥 with a special shoutout to Dr. Lauren Jacobs. Your collective support means everything to me, and I am deeply grateful for all you have done.