Why did you want to be an APPL?

I wanted to be an APPL to be a leader and help make first-year students excited and feel connected to 91����.

How do you think this experience will help you in the classroom and in your career after you graduate?

I think this is a great opportunity��to practice my leadership skills. More specifically, I think learning how to collaborate with others will greatly aid me when entering a school where I must collaborate with many other staff and students.

What activities are you most excited about doing as an APPL?

I have a mindfulness��activity, where we make slime and just focus on our immediate surroundings. During Bridge Week we did an Expl-Orono Day, where we showed first-year students many different places around town. I’m excited to do more activities like that with the first-year students who I’m working with throughout the year.

What other activities, groups or clubs are you involved with at 91����?

I’m the current president��of the 91���� chapter of Student Maine Education Association (SMEA), which is a group for aspiring teachers that is part of the statewide teachers union, the Maine Education Association, as well as the National Education Association. It’s a great club for future��educators to make connections.�� I’m also a��part of Back Country Squatters, Kappa Delta Pi, the national honors society for students in education. I also work on campus.

Any advice for other students considering becoming an APPL or getting involved with other groups or activities on campus?

My biggest��piece of advice is to get involved, go to all of the events offered, the club fair, when clubs run events, as well as student involvement events.

What’s your favorite spot on campus, in Orono or in Maine?

My favorite spot on campus is the Bear’s Den in Memorial Union. In Orono, my favorite spot is The Nest coffee shop!

Hometown: Bangor, Maine
Graduation Year: 2029
Major: Elementary Education (Child Development concentration)

Why did you want to be an APPL?

I wanted to be an APPL to give the incoming freshman can have someone that they know and can look up to, someone who they can always count on to reach out to when they need it.

How do you think this experience will help you in the classroom and in your career after you graduate?

I think that this experience will help me in when I become a teacher and have my own classroom, because I am learning to work with different types of people, getting to know names and coming up with fun activities to keep students engaged.

What activities are you most excited about doing as an APPL?

Bridge Week was amazing. Beyond that, I’m looking forward to continuing to work with this year’s freshmen just helping them get used to college.

What other activities, groups or clubs are you involved with at 91����?

None, unfortunately. But that is one thing I say to our freshmen, is that I wish I got involved with more things happening on campus.

Any advice for other students considering becoming an APPL or getting involved with other groups or activities on campus?

Do it! It is such an amazing opportunity to be a person that incoming students look up to.

What’s your favorite spot on campus, in Orono or in Maine?

I love the library. There are so many different spots to study, and I love meeting up with friends to work together on projects.
��
Hometown: Glenburn, Maine
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Elementary Education (Special Education concentration)

Why did you want to be an APPL?

I wanted to be an APPL to meet new people in my major and explore outside of my comfort zone.

How do you think this experience will help you in the classroom and in your career after you graduate?

Being an APPL is helping me become a better leader, which will help me be a better teacher when I have a classroom of my own someday.

What activities are you most excited about doing as an APPL?

I’m excited to meet other students and explore Orono with them!

What other activities, groups or clubs are you involved with at 91����?

Being an APPL is my only activity right now.

Any advice for other students considering becoming an APPL or getting involved with other groups or activities on campus?

I would say to absolutely apply to be an APPL if interested! It has helped me make so many friends and has helped prepare me for becoming a teacher. I truly have enjoyed this experience so much!

What’s your favorite spot on campus, in Orono or in Maine?

The New Balance Student Recreation Center is my favorite spot on campus, because I like to use the hot tub and sauna.

Hometown: Belfast, Maine
Graduation Year: 2028
Major: Elementary Education (Child Development concentration)

Why did you choose to come to 91����?

I chose to come to 91���� because it reminded me of home state, Minnesota, and I was seeking a grounded environment. After looking into the education program at 91����, 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���� better, and if so, who are they and how have they impacted your time at 91����?

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���� enabled you to explore beyond academics?

I didn’t realize it until I got closer to graduating, but 91���� 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���� provided me with a community beyond the campus.

Favorite 91���� memory:

My favorite memories at 91���� 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���� 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.

Hunter Towne of Freeport, Maine is the 2026 Outstanding Student in Elementary Education in the University of Maine College of Education and Human Development. Towne is in the Child Development concentration in the Elementary Education major. She is also in the Honors College, and completed her Honors Thesis, “Supporting ELL Students and Families in Public Libraries as Observed in Cumberland County, Maine.” As an undergraduate, Towne worked as a peer success coach. She plans to continue her education at 91���� in the fall, starting a master’s program in Curriculum, Assessment and Instruction with a concentration in Library and Media Studies.

Parent(s):

Derek and Sheila Towne.

Why did you choose to come to 91����?

In all honesty, 91���� was my very last choice of schools. As an in-state student, I was desperate to escape after high school. My parents convinced me to apply and tour, and I fell in love. I met Faith Erhardt and Dominick Varney from the College of Education and Human Development Advising Center on Accepted Students Day, and felt such a connection and unwavering support in that moment that I knew I had to stay. It was easily the best choice I’ve ever made. I’ve grown through my time at 91���� more than I ever thought possible.

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

I’ve been lucky enough to have more incredible mentors and professors than I can count. Dr. Julie DellaMattera taught my first Honors course, and I eventually took education coursework with her and she became my Honors Thesis advisor. I’ve appreciated her advice and guidance so, so much, especially as someone who has known me since my very first day on campus. Faith and Dominick have been so incredibly supportive, both as academic advisors and otherwise. Julie Ireland has genuinely gotten me through the past year, and I’ve learned so much taking part in her student teaching seminar. Finally, I have had the opportunity to be mentored by Erin Adams, a third grade teacher at George B. Weatherbee School in Hampden, Maine, during the course of both my 100-hour field placement and my student teaching semester. It is with her knowledge and support that I have been able explore what it means to be an educator on a deeper level, and build skills that will assist me both in the classroom and beyond.

What has coming to 91���� enabled you to explore beyond academics?

Beyond academics, 91���� has allowed me to expand my interests and grow as a leader. My experience in the Honors College allowed me to conduct research and analyze information in new ways, while my employment as a peer success coach in the Office of Student Academic Success over several years truly transformed my mindset of how students are supported in higher education. Having the opportunity to work side by side with my incredibly knowledgeable employers — Mary Beth Willitt, Karen Koneff and Stefan McLure — and mentor first-year students one-on-one has taught me so much about how students learn. On the social side, I have met the most amazing people over the past four years. People who have loved me, supported me, and pushed me out of my comfort zone. I’m so grateful every day that 91���� brought us together.

Favorite 91���� memory:

Late night library dates, laying out on the mall when the sun finally comes out, and 2 a.m. OHOP pizza runs with my friends!

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

Next year, I will be beginning my master’s degree here at the University of Maine in the Curriculum, Assessment and Instruction program with a concentration in Library and Media Studies. I will also be working as a graduate assistant in the College of Education and Human Development’s Advising Center. I’m looking forward to remaining a Black Bear for at least two more years!

Special thank you message:

To Mom and Dad, thank you for answering the phone every time I call (even if it’s five times a day). Your unwavering love and support pushes me to be the best person I can be. To Porter, thank you for being the best little brother, and always making things seem less scary than they are. To my student teaching kiddos, you are the reason I do what I do. Thank you for teaching me more about what it means to be a good teacher than classes or research ever could.

Why did you choose to come to 91����?

When the global COVID-19 pandemic abruptly ended my career as a professional stage manager for live theater, I felt adrift. My husband and I had just settled in Ellsworth before the pandemic hit, and I found myself substitute teaching at a local elementary school, hoping it would be a temporary stop until live events returned. Within five minutes of subbing, a student colored his entire hands green with a marker. Leaving tiny green fingerprints all over the classroom, he giggled with glee as I sent him to scrub his hands in the bathroom. At the end of the day I was utterly exhausted — and unexpectedly in love with education. By the time I was working with a group of brilliant, curious eighth graders, I knew I had found my calling, and it set me on a completely new path in life.

I began my educational journey at Eastern Maine Community College, earning an associate’s degree in education, before transferring to 91����. I was nervous while waiting for my acceptance, but I knew 91���� would be the perfect fit for me. From the start, Faith Erhardt made me feel welcome in the College of Education and Human Development. She understood that I was an older student working full-time as an educational technician and helped me achieve my goal of graduating in just two years. Throughout my time at 91����, I’ve felt supported in my classes, and even at 40, my classmates have been incredibly welcoming.

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

Several professors at 91���� have had a significant impact on my education. William Dee Nichols has been a constant source of support, instilling in me the confidence to pursue my Master’s degree next year. Dee not only guides us in teaching literacy but also encourages us to become passionate educators as we leave the program. I was also deeply inspired by Debrajean Scheibel and her Special Education Law class. Her course truly prepared me for teaching special education, challenging me to think like a special educator and pushing me to excel academically.

Favorite 91���� memory:

My favorite 91���� memory is Literacy Night in Dee Nichols’ ERL 320 class. My group and I ran the Readers’ Theater of the book “There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed Some Leaves.” All the students who participated were fully engaged and performed their roles beautifully! We had readers of all levels, and each brought something special to the performance. One young man eagerly took on the role of Narrator 1, which had the most lines. At first, he struggled with words like “swallowed,” “perhaps,” and “sneeze,” but by the end of the activity, he was confidently delivering his lines without hesitation, especially hitting the phrase “PERHAPS SHE’LL SNEEZE” with enthusiasm. At one point, he even stopped the group to correct his mother and grandmother’s line delivery. I playfully called him our director, and we tried again. He was absolutely thrilled to be called the director, leaving the room with a huge smile. Later, I overheard him in the parking lot telling his mom, “I was the BEST director!”

Another student enjoyed performing so much, he even stayed afterward to deliver a weather report for us. He proudly used the term “Cirrostratus clouds” and then explained what they were. His enthusiasm left me feeling incredibly proud of how the event had gone.

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

I’ve begun applying for special education positions within my district and am excited about the opportunity to teach students with disabilities. Additionally, I’ll be continuing my education at 91����, starting graduate school this summer. Most importantly, I am eager to advocate for students with disabilities, helping them believe in themselves and empowering them to become lifelong learners.

Special thank you message:

My husband has been by my side every step of the way! All the late nights spent at the dining table with my headphones on, lost in my work, have led to this moment — graduation. His unwavering flexibility and support have allowed me to focus on my studies and maintain my GPA. I am deeply grateful to my parents, who proudly display their “91���� Mom” and “91���� Dad” bumper stickers, even though I left the nest long ago. My sister, who went back to school first, inspired me to be brave enough to do the same. A heartfelt thank you to my mother-in-law, Mary, whose encouragement has been irreplaceable. I also want to thank the educators who have mentored, supported, and guided me along the way. Lastly, my deepest gratitude goes to the Mount Desert Island school system for taking a chance on someone without an educational background and for their unwavering flexibility and support as I embarked on my journey to become a teacher.

Erin Kennedy of Glen Ridge, New Jersey is the recipient of the 2025 Outstanding Undergraduate Research Award from the University of Maine College of Education and Human Development. An Elementary Education major with a concentration in Child Development, Kennedy was also an Honors College student. Her Honors thesis was titled “Examining the Need for Character Development Programs and Social Emotional Learning in the State of Maine: A Case Study Analysis.” This qualitative study explored the experiences of K-5 educators in implementing social-emotional learning (SEL) and character education within a regional school district in Maine. Kennedy conducted semi-structured interviews with five educators, including general education teachers and a school counselor, examining the successes and challenges associated with SEL and character education integration in elementary classrooms and broader school settings. 

Parent(s): Lara Muir and Benjamin Kennedy

Why did you choose to come to 91����?

After moving to Maine in 2020, the choice was clear where I wanted to attend for my next 4 years of school! 91���� has such a welcoming and enthusiastic environment, with professors who truly care about their students and their success. 

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

While at 91����, I have collaborated with William and Janet Nichols, who co-chaired my 91���� Honors Thesis project. Both William and Janet supported me in completing a successful and meaningful research thesis regarding educator perceptions of social emotional learning. I would not have been able to complete this endeavor without their wisdom and dedication to the project. I am extremely grateful for their time and commitment this past year!  

What has coming to 91���� enabled you to explore beyond academics?

At 91����, I had the opportunity to gain real classroom experience early on, which was incredibly valuable to developing my skill set for teaching. Being in the school, working with my mentor teachers, and building relationships with students has helped me feel confident and prepared to lead my own classroom someday. Additionally, one of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had here was completing my thesis on social-emotional learning in Maine elementary schools. It allowed me to dive deeper into a topic I’m passionate about and understand the importance of supporting the whole child, not just their academic needs, but their emotional and social development too.

Favorite 91���� memory: 

My favorite 91���� memory has been my entire student teaching experience! Not only did I have fantastic mentor teachers in Mrs. Keane and Mrs. Harper, but I also had the pleasure of teaching some pretty incredible students! 

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

After I graduate, I hope to pursue a career in teaching at the elementary level and continue to explore my role as a researcher in the education field. 

Special thank you message:

I would like to thank my family and friends for their constant support throughout my academic journey at 91����, I could not have done it without them. I also want to thank my professors and advisors for growing my love for teaching over these past 4 years!

Claire Loeser of Saco, Maine is the 2025 Outstanding Student in Elementary Education in the University of Maine College of Education and Human Development. Loeser was a member of University Singers and a Student Ambassador. She graduates with a Child Development and Family Relations minor.

Parent(s): Terry and David Loeser and stepdad Jamie

Why did you choose to come to 91����?

I chose to come to 91���� because it felt like a place I would feel at home. Leaving my family was an overwhelming and daunting experience, but when I visited 91���� I was met with a sense of comfort and possibility. I knew I would be supported as I explored new paths for my future, and discovered my passions outside of my career.   

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

The biggest role models that I have had the pleasure of collaborating with during my time at 91���� have been my two mentor teachers from student teaching and my 100-hour placement, Erin Vose and Cory Feero. Throughout my time with Mrs. Vose and Mrs. Feero, they helped me build the confidence I need to be myself in the classroom, supported me every step of the way, and taught me what it really means to be an educator. They welcomed me fully into their classrooms from my first days as their student teacher, which gave me the safety to fully embrace the student teaching experience. I’m so grateful that Mrs. Vose and Mrs. Feero cared not only for my success as an educator, but my well being and level of comfort in the classroom. I owe my ability to be a compassionate and humorous educator, while still maintaining leadership in the classroom, to them and their guidance. Student teaching is one of the biggest challenges I have faced in my time at 91���� and I wouldn’t have been nearly as successful without the support that Erin Vose and Cory Feero gave me. I will always be so grateful to have worked with them!

What has coming to 91���� enabled you to explore beyond academics?

Coming to 91���� has enabled me to explore many of my interests beyond being an educator. My first year I joined University Singers, the audition choir on campus, and I wouldn’t be the same person I am today without that opportunity. Singing has always been a passion of mine, and for the past four years I have been lucky enough to sing with a group of 60-plus students around the world. Through University Singers I have met some of my best friends, held on to my passions, and found a forever family. In addition to University Singers, I have been able to experience being a Student Ambassador for 91���� through the Admissions Office. I was able to give tours to prospective students, lead orientation groups, and give a speech to part of the incoming freshman class during orientation. This allowed me to grow as a leader and hopefully leave an impact on the students who are just beginning their 91���� journey!

Favorite 91���� memory:

My favorite 91���� memory is going on an international tour of Italy with the University Singers! Over the course of about 12 days we travelled to Rome, Florence, Vicenza, Venice and Lecco. I feel so blessed to have been able to sing with some of my closest friends in the most beautiful spaces. Traveling with 60-plus people was chaotic at times, but it was so magical to have such a large group of people come together to share their love for music. The memories I made will be with me forever and it was truly a once in a lifetime experience that I wouldn’t have gotten elsewhere.

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

After graduating I will celebrate with a much needed family vacation to Disney before moving back home to Southern Maine! I look forward to a summer of nannying in Portland, game nights at home, and dedicating more time to my hobbies. Somewhere along my career path I would love to teach abroad and experience different learning cultures around the world. Long-term, I hope to teach in my hometown school district and give back to the community that gave me such a wonderful education experience.��

Special thank you message: 

Thank you Mom, Jamie, Mckenzie, Alan, Camden and Colton for supporting me through my entire academic journey. You have shown up for me through all the ups and downs, cheered for me at every concert, and trekked up to Orono more times than I could have hoped for. I couldn’t have asked for a more loving family. Thank you to my dad and Papa for watching over me and inspiring me to be a passionate educator, and a joyful person. Thank you to Emma and Erin for being the best student teacher buddies and for making me laugh no matter how stressed we are!

Abby Bourgeois of York, Maine is the 2025 Outstanding Student in Early Childhood Education in the University of Maine College of Education and Human Development. Bourgeois graduates with a double major in Elementary Education and Child Development and Family Relations (Early Childhood concentration). Her post-graduation plans include enrolling in a graduate program to become a certified librarian. 

Why did you choose to come to 91����? 

After completing my freshman year at the University of Southern Maine, I decided to seek other opportunities and I found that 91���� was a much better fit for me! 91���� provided a great opportunity through scholarships and field experience which was immensely helpful. I also found that there was a wonderful system of running trails to give me an occasional break from my studies.

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

During my undergraduate career, I had the wonderful opportunity to study under Connie Ronco. Her courses provided guided experience in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) related fields, working with elementary and middle school students. Connie is incredibly encouraging, supportive and has a contagious enthusiasm about education. 

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

After completing my internship last fall, I began working at the Edythe Dyer Library in Hampden. I spend my time in the children’s room of the library and it has been an absolute joy! In this setting, I’ve been in charge of designing and creating the crafts for the patrons and I occasionally lead storytime for the kids. Moving forward, I have enrolled in a graduate library certification program and I am incredibly excited to get more experience in the field!