The collection includes items such as Boat and Tote bags, fleece vests, blankets and additional apparel and accessories.

The merchandise will be available exclusively through the , both in-store and online, beginning Friday, May 8.

To celebrate the launch, the 91福利 Bookstore will host a pop-up shop during Hearty Maine Farewell, featuring the L.L. Bean Bootmobile, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday.

The agreement brings together two iconic Maine brands and expands the university鈥檚 licensed merchandise offerings with products designed for students, alumni, families and supporters of the Black Bears.

Other recent 91福利 licensing agreements include Orono Brewing Company, Marin Skincare and Coffee Hound.

At MCEC, the initiative has accelerated progress in advising, curriculum design, artificial intelligence education, statewide partnerships and K-12 outreach. The work aligns engineering and computing education with Maine鈥檚 workforce needs while building clearer pathways from classrooms to careers.

Collaboration across UMS TRANSFORMS pillars 鈥� including the Maine Center, Student Success and Retention and 91福利 Athletics 鈥� has supported expanded programming, shared resources and coordinated statewide engagement. Together, these efforts show how UMS TRANSFORMS investments are improving student success, program growth and workforce alignment.

鈥淎cross Maine, we know the demand for talent, innovation and opportunity is continuing to grow,鈥� said Joan Ferrini-Mundy, president of 91福利 and the University of Maine at Machias. 鈥淲e鈥檙e able to meet that need through strategic investments supported by UMS TRANSFORMS that are creating new opportunities in engineering and computing.鈥�

Student success and retention improve

A redesigned advising model has contributed to MCEC鈥檚 highest retention rate in more than a decade. The model integrates academic guidance, community support and career preparation into a system that supports students from enrollment through graduation. By treating advising as an ongoing experience rather than a single service, MCEC has created a more consistent structure to help students navigate academics, belonging and career readiness.

Curriculum redesign is also producing gains. A first-year biomedical engineering course, updated through a UMS TRANSFORMS seed grant, introduced hands-on learning earlier. Students engaged in:

• Cell culture.
• Biomaterials testing.
• Microscopy.
• Data analysis.
• Experimental design.

The results are clear:

• Students report stronger confidence in their abilities.
• A 25% improvement in communication and critical thinking skills.
• A 3% increase in semester-to-semester retention.

These outcomes reflect a shift toward learner-centered instruction supporting academic achievement and long-term success. Another indicator of this is a 16% increase in year two retention in pre-engineering.

MCEC is also building long-term capacity through a faculty development initiative that supports doctoral students as they teach and mentor, strengthening the pipeline of future educators and reinforcing a culture of student-centered learning.

Expansion of AI and future-focused research-inspired programs

MCEC has expanded its academic portfolio to meet demand in emerging fields, particularly artificial intelligence and technology-driven industries. New offerings include:

• A bachelor鈥檚 degree in computer science and business.
• An online Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence certificate for undergraduate and graduate learners.
• Programs in ocean engineering and maritime digitalization tied to Maine鈥檚 growing blue economy.

These programs connect students to areas such as digital twins, cyber-physical systems and next-generation infrastructure, helping ensure graduates are prepared for modern industry.

In partnership with Student Success and Retention, AI-powered course chatbots provide students with course-specific academic support, increasing access to assistance outside classroom hours.

鈥淓ngineering and computing education must evolve as quickly as the world we live in,鈥� said Giovanna Guidoboni, dean of the Maine College of Engineering and Computing. 鈥淥ur goal is not simply to add programs, but to build partnerships and sustainable systems of opportunity that connect students, research and industry in ways that benefit our students and Maine.鈥�

Investments in Research Learning Experiences (RLEs) and classroom modernization have expanded opportunities for undergraduate students to participate in hands-on learning while gaining familiarity with the research process.

Statewide pathways and partnerships grow

UMS TRANSFORMS has expanded MCEC鈥檚 reach across Maine through multicampus programs and partnerships that are creating more flexible educational pathways. Over the past three years, MCEC has developed:

• Accelerated pathways from bachelor鈥檚 to master鈥檚 degrees in mechanical and electrical engineering between the University of Southern Maine (USM) and 91福利.
• A pre-engineering program at 91福利 and 91福利 Machias.
• Expanded computing collaborations across all campuses of the University of Maine System.
• The CharisMATHic Research Learning Experience, connecting students across disciplines through shared coursework and experiences at 91福利 and USM.

Efforts to reduce barriers for community college students have also advanced. Articulation agreements with Southern Maine Community College have been formalized, and pre-engineering pathways provide clear routes into four-year programs.

MCEC鈥檚 presence at the Maine Center has strengthened these connections. As a hub for interdisciplinary graduate education and collaboration across business, law, policy and engineering, the Maine Center is creating opportunities for students to engage with industry partners, alumni and employers while expanding access for learners in southern Maine.

K-12 outreach expands statewide pipeline

Efforts to build Maine鈥檚 workforce are reaching students earlier through a K-12 outreach strategy. Over the past three years, MCEC has engaged more than 1,600 students through:

• 99 STEM Exploration Day field trips.
• 15 summer camps.
• Additional on-campus, hybrid and in-school programs.

These initiatives have reached 15 of Maine鈥檚 16 counties, expanding access to engineering and computing education across the state.

Teacher professional development programs, international VEX Robotics competitions and hands-on training opportunities have extended that impact. Educators are gaining tools in robotics, coding and advanced materials and bringing those experiences back to classrooms across Maine, strengthening the STEM pipeline.

Collaboration with 91福利 Athletics has also supported the design of facilities capable of hosting large-scale K-12 STEM events, competitions and community programming and the creation of a sports technology minor in partnership with the Maine Business School.

Facilities and infrastructure support growth

UMS TRANSFORMS has supported infrastructure investments, including:

• Dedicated student success spaces.
• New interdisciplinary laboratories and classroom spaces.
• Plans to modernize legacy buildings to support research and education.

In fall 2026, 91福利 is scheduled to open the GEM building, a facility designed to integrate research, teaching and industry collaboration. The space will support convergent manufacturing and provide students with opportunities to engage in applied learning environments that reflect industry settings.

UMS TRANSFORMS has also boosted MCEC鈥檚 reputation as a learner-centered elite program ranking among the top 100 graduate engineering schools by U.S. News & World Report, reflecting strong growth across several programs. With the UMS TRANSFORMS investment, electrical and computer engineering enrollment has risen 40%. That includes a particularly significant expansion in the Ph.D. program, which increased from five to 32 students 鈥� a more than 500% gain. Mechanical engineering enrollment grew by 19%, while surveying engineering technology saw a 63% increase in enrollment. The surveying program has also earned national distinction, receiving annual awards from the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying every year since the honor was established in 2016.

鈥淚 am proud of what we have accomplished in just three years,鈥� Guidoboni said. 鈥淭hrough UMS TRANSFORMS and the continued investment of the Harold Alfond Foundation, the University of Maine and the University of Maine System are positioned to be global leaders attracting and retaining top talent in Maine. We will continue to think bigger, think more broadly and use these resources to catalyze meaningful change.鈥� 

Contact: Taylor Ward, taylor.ward@maine.edu

The academy announced Tuesday the election of 120 members and 25 international members, bringing its total membership to 2,705 active members and 557 international members.

Steneck spent more than four decades at 91福利, where he helped shape marine research and policy through studies of kelp forests, lobster fisheries and coral reefs. He retired in 2023 as a professor of oceanography, marine biology and marine policy.

鈥淒r. Steneck鈥檚 election to the National Academy of Sciences is a well-deserved honor,” University of Maine President Joan Ferrini-Mundy said. 鈥淗is research has advanced our understanding of coastal ecosystems and helped shape marine science and policy, while his mentorship has inspired generations of students to pursue meaningful work in the field. We are proud and grateful that his distinguished career has been here at the University of Maine.鈥�

A marine ecologist, Steneck has focused on the structure and function of coastal ecosystems, particularly in the Gulf of Maine and the Caribbean. His research examines food webs, dominant species and ecological processes in benthic marine environments, often through in situ observation using scuba diving, underwater video systems and remotely operated vehicles.

For more than 40 years, his work in Maine has explored kelp forest ecosystems and the relationships among lobsters, sea urchins and fish stocks. His research also spans the Caribbean and tropical Pacific, where long-term studies of coral reefs have informed strategies to improve reef resilience.

Steneck joined 91福利 in 1982 and was among the first marine ecologists to collaborate directly with lobstermen, integrating scientific research with industry knowledge. His work contributed to new approaches to studying and managing Maine鈥檚 lobster fishery and broader coastal ecosystems.

In addition to his research, Steneck emphasized hands-on learning, involving students in all aspects of scientific work, from proposal writing to data collection and publication.

鈥淚 have always been passionate about getting students into the field for experiential learning,鈥� he said.

In 1993, Steneck developed a proposal for Semester by the Sea at 91福利鈥檚 Darling Marine Center, an undergraduate program that continues today. He later expanded those opportunities globally, teaching a graduate coral reef course that, beginning in 2003, brought students to Bonaire in the Caribbean for two decades to monitor reef health.

鈥淭he student projects became a valued part of the island鈥檚 coral reef monitoring program,鈥� he said.

Many of Steneck鈥檚 former students have gone on to leadership roles in marine science, conservation and policy. That list includes Carl Wilson, commissioner of the Maine Department of Marine Resources, who started as an intern on Steneck’s lobster project and went on to earn his degree from 91福利’s School of Marine Sciences.

鈥淚鈥檝e had a bevy of terrific students, and their careers are what I鈥檓 most proud of,鈥� Steneck said. 鈥淪eeing them go on to make meaningful contributions in science, conservation and policy is one of the most rewarding parts of the work.鈥�

Founded in 1863, the National Academy of Sciences recognizes achievement in science and provides independent advice to the U.S. government.

Steneck鈥檚 election follows other recent honors, including his 2025 induction into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, further recognizing his impact on marine science and conservation.

Contact: Marcus Wolf, 207.581.3721; marcus.wolf@maine.edu 

The symposium awards undergraduate and graduate students who displayed outstanding research, presentation and creative ability. Award winners were selected through judging across academic categories, all receiving a medal and a $500 cash prize. There were also several special awards, including the Student Innovation and Commercialization Awards, given to students and faculty. 

Over 350 projects from researchers at 91福利 and its regional campus, the University of Maine at Machias, were submitted to the annual event, co-hosted by CUGR, Student Government and the Graduate Student Government. 

Undergraduate category award winners

• Allied Health: Alyson Shook and Hannah Maker, for their project titled 鈥淪trengthening EMS Retention in Maine: A Path to Improved Patient Outcomes.鈥� They were advised by Sarah Hanscome.
• Arts: William Fortier, Oliver Rodi and Mikey Arbelo, for their project titled 鈥淭he Creativity of Mapping.鈥� They were advised by Andy Mauery.
• Biomedical Sciences: Hayden Kittell, Diana Goode and Moria Weese-Myers, for their project titled 鈥淢HCII Expression in Differential Doses of Chemotherapy Treatment on Mice.鈥� They were advised by William Otto.
• Business: Brady Merritt, for the project titled 鈥淐an Large Language Models Pass the CFA Exam.鈥� Merrit was advised by Sebastian Lobe.
• Education: Carly Philbrook, for her project titled 鈥淐omparison of High School Mathematics Textbooks Analyzing Higher Order Thinking Skills in New England.鈥� Philbrook was advised by Kamal Chawla.
• Engineering and Information Sciences: Elsa Perez Abella and Ahmed Kandil, for their project titled 鈥淪urface Flow Visualization Enhancement Using AI.鈥� They were advised by Ahmed Aboelezz.
• Engineering and Information Sciences: Wyatt Fessler, Cadence Kluck, Isabelle Irani and Marc Zoorob, for their project titled 鈥淎 Tissue-integrating, Resealable Hemodialysis Port for Reducing Complications Associated with Repetitive Vascular Access.鈥� They were advised by David Neivandt.
• Interdisciplinary Research: Richard Viveiros, for the project titled 鈥淪ublethal PFAS Exposure During Larval Stages of Culex: Consequences for Development, Survivorship, and Tissue Bioacculation of PFOA, PFBA, and PFBS.鈥� Viveiros was advised by Allison Gardner.
• Interdisciplinary Research: Luke Connolly, for the project titled 鈥淣ano-Pattern Fabrication Using Electron Beam Lithography.鈥� Connolly was advised by Dinh Loc Duong.
• Natural Sciences: Josie Aprea, Brendan Dahl, Emma Perry and Ian Bricknell, for their project titled 鈥減H vs. Predator.鈥� Bricknell also served as advisor for the project.
• Physical and Mathematical Sciences: Avery Richard, Ziyad ur Rehman, Henry Carfagno and Nuri Emanetoglu, for their project titled 鈥淔abrication and Characterization of Indenofluorene-based Organic Single Crystal Field-effect Transistors.鈥� They were advised by Dinh Loc Duong.
• Social Sciences and Humanities: Maya Aylesworth, for the project titled 鈥淩obert Johnson, the Crossroad Mythos, and the Lasting Effects of a Legend.鈥� Aylesworth was advised by Jennifer Moxley.

Graduate category award winner

• Allied Health: Katherine Brewer, for the project titled 鈥淭elehealth and Prenatal Care Utilization in Rural Communities: Addressing Access, Satisfaction, and Health Outcomes.鈥� Brewer was advised by Kathryn Robinson.
• Arts: Celena Powell, for the project titled 鈥淎t the Threshold: Domestic Space as a Site of Contemporary Resistance.鈥� Powell was advised by Susan Smith.
• Biomedical Sciences: Chloe Bossow, Lydia McCarthy and Melody Neely, for the project titled 鈥淚nteractions Between Group B Streptococcus and Candida albicans Are Influenced by Environmental Stress.鈥� Neely also served as the advisor for the project.
• Education: Kayla McLagan, Kate Ruskin, Alison Jolley, Karen Pelletreau and Edgelynn Venuti, for their project titled 鈥淭o What Extent Does a Weekend-long Field Course Influence Students鈥� Sense of Belonging? A Focus on Influential Course Elements.鈥� They were advised by Kate Ruskin.
• Engineering and Information Sciences: Mahbuba Daizy, Yu Zhang, Douglas Bousfield, Jinwu Wang and David Neivandt, for their project titled 鈥淐omparison of Stabilization Systems for Soybean Wax Emulsions to Produce Sustainable Water-resistant Paper Based Packaging: Surfactant vs. Pickering.鈥� Neivandt also served as the advisor for the project.
• Interdisciplinary Research: Zainab Jafri, for the project titled 鈥淩eimagining the Waste Disposal Landscape – Industrial Symbiosis in Maine.鈥� Jafri was advised by Reed Miller.
• Natural Sciences: Nabanita Das, Islam Hafez, Colleen Walker, Douglas Bousfield and Mehdi Tajvidi, for their project titled 鈥淔actors Influencing the Effectiveness of Cellulose Nanfibril Coatings on Molded Fiber Substrates.鈥� Tajvidi also served as the advisor for the project.
• Physical and Mathematical Sciences: Hettikankanamge Kalani Samarasekara, for the project titled 鈥淧aving the Way for Novel Drug Delivery Systems: Peptoid Nanoparticles.鈥� Samarasekara was advised by Alessia Battigelli.
• Social Sciences and Humanities: Catherine Segada, Chyanne Yoder, William Breneman and Gianna DeJoy, for their project titled 鈥淩euseME: Investigating Waste Reduction and Cost Benefits in Coastal Communities Through a Pilot Reusable Food Packaging Program.鈥� They were advised by Cynthia Isenhour.
• Social Sciences and Humanities: Cynthia Cushing, Catherine Taylor, Rachel Coleman, MaryLou Ciolfi, Jennifer Crittenden, Len Kaye and Sarah Currie, for their project titled 鈥淏uilding a Workforce Readiness Model for Older Adults: Partner Insights From AmeriCorps Seniors Workforce Development Program.鈥� Crittenden also served as advisor for the project. 

Student Innovation and Commercialization Awards

• First Place: Nabanita Das.
• Second Place: Amir Baharvand.
• Third Place: Noro John.

Additional awards

• Dean of Graduate School Undergraduate Mentoring Award: Joshua Hamilton.
• Dean of the Graduate School Faculty Mentor Award: Christine Beitl
• Bruce and Joanne Fournier Award: Gregory Simms, Mikayla Reynolds, Isabelle Irani and David Neivandt.
• Provost鈥檚 Innovative and Creative Teaching Award: Jillian Fedarick.
• Susan J. Hunter Undergraduate Award: Madelynn DeBest.
• Susan J. Hunter Graduate Award: Mya Griffith. 

鈥淎t the time, I 3D printed face shields because health care workers were having an issue with PPE (personal protective equipment),鈥� Goodell said. 鈥淭hat really started it for me. Making things from my computer come to real life is pretty awesome.鈥�

Upon arriving at the University of Maine, Goodell was searching for a space where he could continue his hobby while meeting friends when he found the 3D Printing Club. Now as a junior, he serves as the club鈥檚 vice president with an assortment of skills gained from his tenure. 

Every Wednesday during the fall and spring semesters, the club meets in the Ferland Engineering Education and Design Center to design and produce figurines based on movie characters, toy cars and boats, mechanical hands, bowls, vases and more. 91福利 a dozen members create digital designs and use industrial printers to make items ranging from fingernail-sized pieces to models as large as 17-cubic feet.

Students in the club work on individual and group projects, maintain equipment and teach new members how to use the printers. As a result, it serves as a collaborative space for learning, problem-solving and teamwork.

Goodell, who has been involved with the club since his first year, said the experience has helped him develop impressive skills he applies beyond the classroom. For example, he recently designed and printed a custom case to mount a Starlink device on top of his car, allowing him to access internet service in remote areas of northern Maine.

鈥淲ithout a 3D printer, I wouldn鈥檛 have been able to make that case,鈥� Goodell said. 鈥淚 wouldn鈥檛 have Wi-Fi in the middle of nowhere.鈥�

Club President Jack Bernado, a junior who’s studying mechanical engineering, said the experience has strengthened both his leadership and organizational skills. 

鈥淚t has made me better at leading a team and being part of a team,鈥� Bernado said. 鈥淚t has helped me be more organized with all the different prints being submitted, as well as all the people to reach out to.鈥�

Club members are currently planning a pinewood derby race with cars made of 3D printed parts for the fall 2026 semester. 

鈥淲e鈥檒l have our own track, and it鈥檒l be a fun race,鈥� Goodell said. 鈥淚鈥檓 looking forward to seeing what people make.鈥�

The club includes mostly mechanical and electrical engineering students, along with some computer science majors, but Goodell and Bernardo say it is open to anyone interested and willing to show up and learn.

The group meets at 5 p.m. on Wednesdays in Room 337 of the Ferland Engineering Education and Design Center. Students interested in joining the club can contact Bernado at jack.bernado@maine.edu or Goodell at timothy.goodell@maine.edu.

Story by Rowan MacDonald, news intern.

Contact: Marcus Wolf, 207.581.3721; marcus.wolf@maine.edu 

Guests should park in Hilltop, CCA, Belgrade and Steam Plant lots, with ADA parking available near the arena. 

Additional guest parking will be available in Dunn Lot and Wells Lot, which must be accessed from Munson Road heading northbound. Shuttle buses will run continuously from these lots to the venue.

Shuttles will drop off at Long Road and Munson Road, a short walk from Alfond Arena, to reduce congestion near the building.

Long Road will be closed from College Avenue to Gym Drive during the events.

Parking will be restricted in some areas, including the west side of College Avenue, to maintain traffic flow and emergency access. Corbett Lot will be reserved for event staff parking only.

The ceremonies are scheduled for Friday, May 8 (graduate) and Saturday, May 9 (undergraduate).

Attendees should allow extra travel time and follow directions from event staff.

鈥淩achel and Kalli are exceptional students who have achieved great things not only in the classroom, but across campus and our community,鈥� said 91福利 Machias Dean Megan Walsh. 

D鈥橝lessandro works as a phlebotomist, and plans to enter a medical lab technician program. Immersing herself in health sciences during her undergraduate career, she attended a week-long course at the Mount Desert Island Biological Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Maine, during spring break in 2025.

鈥淚 plan to use my experience and the degrees I am receiving at 91福利 Machias to continue and further my career in the medical field,鈥� D鈥橝lessandro said. 

With a passion for the outdoors, D鈥橝lessandro worked for Project SHARE, an organization dedicated to Atlantic Salmon conservation, in the summer of 2023 and 2025. She participated in several Outing Club events, including a hike at Tunk Mountain, a canoe paddle at Six Mile Lake and a ski trip at Big Rock Mountain, where she learned how to snowboard.

鈥淚 also enjoyed regular events on campus like intramurals, bingo, paint and sips, terrarium building and all kinds of other events,鈥� she said. 

Deeply connected to her hometown, Sternberg, who also pursued a concentration in elementary education and a minor in creative writing, recently completed her student teaching at Rose M. Gaffney Elementary School in Machias. Sternberg worked under Caitlyn Roy, who was her own teacher in fifth grade. While studying at 91福利 Machias, she earned her Wilderness First Responder license during one of her courses. 

鈥淚 hope to give back to my Washington County community by teaching locally!鈥� Sternberg said. 鈥淓ventually, I plan to pursue a master’s degree in the educational space and perhaps earn a graduate Certificate in Outdoor Education and Leadership.鈥� 

She volunteers with Jobs for Maine Graduates (JMG), the only non profit organization in Maine that offers support for students as they transition from middle school to high school, through high school graduation and onto post-secondary education. By partnering with Maine鈥檚 middle and high schools, community colleges and the University of Maine System, JMG promotes degree attainment and pathways to careers.

Sternberg is also the student representative for the 91福利 Machias Curriculum Committee, which is responsible for developing recommendations to add, drop or restructure academic programs and individual courses. 

Recently, she met with the Maine Department of Education to discuss 91福利 Machias鈥� Rural Education program. 

鈥淚 enjoy being a student ambassador and  talking to prospective students about the program!鈥� she said.  

Contact: Jacqueline Leonard, jacqueline.leonard@maine.edu 

Hamidah Aldarwish

College of Education and Human Development

Bachelor of Science in Child Development and Family Relations

Hamidah Aldarwish of Dammam, Saudi Arabia, is the Outstanding Graduating International Student for the College of Education and Human Development. Aldarwish arrived in Maine in 2019 with her family 鈥� her husband, Jafar, and their three girls who are now ages 11 to 15. Aldarwish completed her capstone internship at 91福利鈥檚 Children鈥檚 Center with a focus on the application of observational and developmental principles in early childhood settings, particularly related to children with diverse developmental needs, including autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. After graduation, Aldarwish plans to return to Saudi Arabia to work with families and children. 

A full profile of Aldarwish is online. 

Ella Boxall

Maine College of Engineering and Computing

Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering with Minors in Sustainability and Mathematics and a Concentration in Water Resources

Ella Boxall of Kennebunkport, Maine, is the Outstanding Graduating Student in the Maine College of Engineering and Computing. She has completed internships with GEI Consultants and TRC Companies, conducted research using MATLAB to project sea level rise and king tides in Bar Harbor and served as a learning assistant and grader. Her capstone project focuses on redesigning a gravity-fed water system for a salmon rearing facility in Aroostook County, highlighting creative, low-energy engineering solutions. She plans to pursue graduate studies in marine science in the United Kingdom and build a career promoting coastal and environmental resilience.

A full profile of Boxall is available online. 

Dianne Brindisi

Division of Lifelong Learning

Bachelor of University Studies, Leadership Studies Track

Dianne Brindisi of Cape Neddick, Maine, is the Outstanding Graduating Student in the Division of Lifelong Learning at the University of Maine. Service has always been central to Brindisi鈥檚 life. From supporting families in need and mentoring young leaders to contributing to professional associations that advance women and industry standards, Brindisi believes leadership is inseparable from service. Looking ahead, she is committed to educating the public about the university studies program and sharing her positive experience and welcomes the opportunity to serve as a program ambassador. 

A full profile of Brindisi is online. 

Kate Evans

College of Education and Human Development

Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education with a Second Major in Spanish

Kate Evans of Bangor, Maine, is the Outstanding Graduating Student for the College of Education and Human Development. A single mom of four young children, whom she has homeschooled while working toward her degree, Evans earned a 4.00 GPA while pursuing double majors in secondary education and Spanish. She received the Roger Hill Humanities Scholarship and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Outstanding Junior Award. Evans is an active member of her church community, where she often volunteers her time for service and educational programs. After graduating she plans to stay in the Bangor region and teach Spanish at a local high school.

A full profile of Evans is online. 

Chantelle Flores

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences | Honors College

Bachelor of Arts in English with a Minor in Creative Writing

Bachelor of Arts in Art History with a Minor in Classical Studies

Chantelle Flores of Oakland, Maine, is the Outstanding Graduating Student for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. She was a McGillicuddy Humanities Center (MHC) Undergraduate Fellow, as well as a Zillman Art Museum Research Curatorial Fellow through the center. Flores interned at the 91福利 Writing Center and served as co-editor-in-chief of Spire magazine. After graduation, she plans to pursue an internship related to literature or the arts and apply for graduate programs for art history, with the ultimate goal of acquiring a Ph.D. in contemporary art history and becoming a professor.

A full profile of Flores is online. 

Zoe Furber

College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences

Bachelor of Science in Marine Science with a Second Major in Biology with a Concentration in Marine Biology

Zoe Furber of Vancouver, British Columbia, is the Outstanding Graduating International Student for the College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences. She has been a member of the 91福利 Field Hockey team since 2022 and was appointed captain in 2025. During her time at 91福利, she completed a capstone project comparing ocean temperatures in the Gulf of Maine to heart rate metrics of blue mussels. These experiences prepared her for a career in environmental, social and governance (ESG) and sustainability. Furber plans to complete a Master of Science in Global Strategy and Sustainability at the University of Edinburgh, where she will play field hockey for an additional year.

A full profile of Furber is online. 

Ruth Griffith

College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences | Honors College

Bachelor of Science in Economics with Minors in Mathematics and International Affairs

Ruth Griffith of Parkman, Maine, is the Outstanding Graduating Student for the Honors College and the 2026 91福利 valedictorian. She is majoring in economics with minors in mathematics and international affairs. Through her honors thesis, Griffith developed a method to analyze sub-county economic trends using regional data, helping illuminate how policies impact local communities across Maine. Drawing on her background in regional economics, she adapted tools used for markets to understand disparities. Beyond academics, she has led service initiatives such as the Maine Day Meal Packout, coordinating efforts that provide tens of thousands of meals statewide. She will launch her career at TD Bank in New York City after graduation and plans to one day pursue a Master of Business Administration.

A full profile of Griffith is online.

Sarah Johnson

Maine Business School

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accounting with a Second Major in Business Information Systems and Security Management

Sarah Johnson of Clifton, Maine, is the Outstanding Graduating Student for the Maine Business School. Johnson has completed multiple internships with both the Maine Business School and BerryDunn, an accounting and consulting services firm. She has also worked as an undergraduate assistant for 91福利鈥檚 Office of Institutional Research and Assessment. These roles strengthened her professional skill set, including effective communication, adaptability, critical thinking and the ability to apply feedback constructively. They also prepared her to approach problems analytically and to collaborate effectively in a professional setting. Following graduation, she will launch her career at BerryDunn as a tax specialist.  

A full profile of Johnson is online. 

Jasper Makowski

College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences | Honors College

Bachelor of Science in Microbiology

Jasper Makowski of Dover-Foxcroft, Maine, is the Outstanding Graduating Student in the College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences. He secured internships and part-time work with two medical facilities and 91福利鈥檚 Maginnis Lab. Working closely with associate professor of microbiology Melissa Maginnis, he researched signaling mechanisms in viruses and learned about a range of diseases. Makowski is a student organizer for the Maine Day Meal Packout. Outside of academics, he retreats to the Maine outdoors and enjoys a variety of activities, from backpacking to fly fishing. After he graduates, he is pursuing a medical degree with plans to return to rural Maine as a primary care provider. 

A full profile of Makowski is online. 

Andrii Obertas

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Bachelor of Science in Physics

Bachelor of Science in Mathematics

Andrii Obertas of Lutsk, Ukraine, is the 2026 Outstanding Graduating International Student for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and the 2026 91福利 co-salutatorian. Pursuing dual degrees in physics and mathematics, Obertas has distinguished himself through academic excellence and perseverance. He has conducted original research in both physics and mathematics, while also engaging in outreach efforts that bring science education to communities across Maine. His experience at 91福利 has been shaped by a strong sense of community and opportunity, which he credits with providing hope for his future. After graduation, Obertas plans to pursue a master鈥檚 degree in mathematics through the accelerated 4+1 program.

A full profile of Obertas is online.

Samuel Tremblay

Maine Business School

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Management

Samuel Tremblay of Quebec City is the Outstanding Graduating International Student for the Maine Business School. Tremblay is a tutor, mentor, Maine Business School ambassador and president of the 91福利 chapter of the Beta Gamma Sigma honor society. He is also a kicker for the 91福利 Football Team, through which he became a finalist for the Fred Mitchell Award, and a representative for the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. He served as a captain on Canada’s Junior National Team at the International Federation of American Football鈥檚 World Junior Championship. After graduation, he plans to stay at 91福利 and pursue a master’s degree while continuing to play football.听听

A full profile of Tremblay is online. 

Karun Varghese

Maine College of Engineering and Computing | Honors College

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering with a Minor in Robotics

Karun Varghese of Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is the Outstanding Graduating International Student in the Maine College of Engineering and Computing and the Honors College. Varghese assumed research roles in the Computer Vision and Autonomous Robotics Lab, the High Altitude Ballooning Lab and the Advanced Structures and Composites Center. Outside of academics, he participated in the Black Bear Robotics Club, the South Asian Association of Maine and Model United Nations. Through Model UN, he traveled internationally to Taiwan, the Philippines and Peru. After graduation, he will pursue graduate studies at Carnegie Mellon University鈥檚 Robotics Institute.

A full profile of Varghese is online. 

Contact: Marcus Wolf, 207.581.3721; marcus.wolf@maine.edu 

The visit was part of a 10-day trip across Iceland in May 2025 that brought students not only to a volcano but also a geyser, a glacier, mountains, and the rugged coastline. They even trekked through a lava tube created by an eruption through a fissure in the surface, their hard hats with headlamps lighting up the dark cavern shaped by jagged walls of hardened lava. 

鈥淚鈥檓 going to remember this for the rest of my life,鈥� Hall said. 

The experience is a central component of an upper-level travel study course called 鈥淓RS410: Sea-to-Sky Experience,鈥� in which students explore dynamic landscapes and conduct real-world research on the oceanic, geologic, atmospheric and ecological processes that shaped them.

In Iceland, students drilled ice cores, obtained water samples, conducted isotope and radiocarbon dating and used ground-and ice-penetrating radar to gather a wide range of data. 

The faculty also coordinated opportunities for students to meet and interview local residents affected by the natural processes they were studying for qualitative data and personal context.   

鈥淚 have been quite interested in natural disaster sciences and mitigation since I began my undergraduate career and seeing the ways that the recent volcanic events have impacted both the landscape and the surrounding communities was extremely interesting,鈥� Hall said. 鈥淗aving the opportunity to connect with people who were affected first hand by these tragedies was eye-opening and gave me a further sense of direction in my career planning.鈥�

Unlike similar programs at other universities, 鈥淪ea-to-Sky鈥� also trains students to become effective science communicators by teaching them how to translate complex research into more accessible formats for a general audience, including drawings, paintings and creative writing. 

Karl Kreutz, course instructor and director of the School of Earth and Climate Sciences, said what sets the program apart is the internationally recognized researchers who teach it 鈥斕� Seth Campbell, associate professor of glaciology, and Aaron Putnam, George H. Denton Professor of Earth Sciences; Daniel Dixon, director of 91福利鈥檚 Sustainability Office; and renown environmental artist and alumna 鈥�15, 鈥�18G.

鈥淥ur students are exposed to real-world problems that they help solve, and they work with some of the best scientists in the world,鈥� Kreutz said.  

鈥淪ea-to-Sky鈥� has been offered four times over the past decade 鈥� once in Iceland and three times in Alaska. The idea took shape while Kreutz and Campbell were stranded on a glacier mountain during a five-day storm, where they began brainstorming a program that would immerse students in real-world field experiences in unique environments. 

Open to students in earth and climate sciences, environmental science, engineering or other programs, 鈥淪ea-to-Sky鈥� prepares participants to become future scientists by engaging them in independent research projects and faculty-led work in the field. 

As a capstone course for Earth and climate science students, 鈥淪ea-to-Sky鈥� requires participants to present their findings through presentations or posters at public events like the 91福利 Student Symposium. By contributing to faculty research, students may also receive credit in peer-reviewed journal publications, helping launch their professional scientific careers. 

The next 鈥淪ea-to-Sky鈥� experience is scheduled for May, when faculty will once again bring students to Iceland for continued research. The program is supported by a gift endowment from the Golden family in honor of Nicholas Golden, an Earth and climate science student who passed away.

Contact: Marcus Wolf, 207.581.3721; marcus.wolf@maine.edu 

The menu features bone-in and boneless听wings听with 23 sauces and five dry rubs, as well as sandwiches, wraps, appetizers and听desserts. Customers can order food to-go or sit听and听eat at Central pub or听the听outdoor patio.听Place your order ahead or get Kiwibot delivery through the Everyday app, or use the kiosks inside to place your order.

Buffalo听Wild听Wings听GO joins other Wells听Central听offerings such as Sal鈥檚 Pizza听and听the eat>NOW Amazon Just Walk Out market.

At the University of Maine, students graduate with the skills and experience to step directly into Maine鈥檚 growing workforce. 

Now, they are getting a clearer picture of how to get started.

鈥淵ou already have the emotional intelligence and understanding, but you grow it by practicing new habits when you enter the work place,鈥� said Ray Steen, vice president of human resources at Bath Iron Works. 鈥淚t鈥檚 all about how you connect with others.鈥�

Connecting students with industry leaders is among the many things the University of Maine does very well.

That was evident during a panel discussion, 鈥淎dvice for Building a Career in the Blue Economy,鈥� where industry leaders shared guidance with students preparing to enter one of Maine鈥檚 most vital and evolving sectors.

In a state where much of the fishing industry operates as a network of small businesses, that future may depend on students who are ready not just to enter the workforce, but to shape it.

The panel underscored the range of opportunities available. Bath Iron Works alone includes roughly 350 job titles, from welding and electrical work to engineering and operations roles, reflecting the breadth of careers that make up the blue economy.

Connection was a major theme throughout the discussion.

Speakers encouraged students to start small, working alongside local fishers and coastal businesses, and to take advantage of expanding internship opportunities across the state.

That approach shaped the career of Monique Coombs, director of community programs for the Maine Coast Fishermen鈥檚 Association, who entered the industry during the 2008 recession with the goal of supporting her hometown of Harpswell and preserving fishing for future generations.

鈥淭ry different things and have the ability to quit and fail,鈥� Coombs said. 鈥淭hat鈥檚 how you know what you like and don鈥檛 like and what鈥檚 important to you.鈥�

Coombs began with contract work before joining the association full time in 2016. Today, the organization works to inventory and preserve Maine鈥檚 working waterfront while also supporting fishermen through programs that address both physical and mental well-being. It also offers two internships each summer, giving students hands-on experience in the field.

鈥淚nterns assist in our pre-established projects for the summer, but we always leave space for them to come up with a few of their own,鈥� said Coombs.

For some, the blue economy offers an opportunity not just to join an existing industry, but to rethink how it operates.

Liam Fisher, founder of the Maine Garum Company, described how he built a business at the intersection of engineering, sustainability and food. Using organic waste from the fishing industry, Fisher produces garum, a fermented sauce, creating value from materials that would otherwise be discarded.

鈥淭here鈥檚 an entire ecosystem to help small start-ups in this state,鈥� Fisher said. 鈥淭alk to other Mainers. You鈥檇 be surprised how excited people get about seeing their state鈥檚 name on a sauce bottle.鈥�

His work reflects a broader shift in Maine鈥檚 coastal economy, where traditional industries are increasingly intersecting with entrepreneurship and innovation.

鈥淲e need to change commodities to culture and cuisine,鈥� said Fisher. 鈥淚 see that as an opportunity within the next five years with new faces entering the workforce. We can create an identity around the region.鈥�

Story by Mello Vancil, news intern.

Contact: Marcus Wolf, 207.581.3721; marcus.wolf@maine.edu

But when the junior mechanical engineering major from Winslow, Maine, sat down with a potential employer, the conversation quickly turned to a line on his resume: Naked Five.

鈥淭hey recognized me,鈥� Newgard said. 鈥淭hey asked about it.鈥�

What might have been a passing detail instead became a conversation about leadership and follow-through, qualities that extend beyond the arena.

At the University of Maine, the Naked Five are a shirtless, painted fixture of Alfond Arena and one of the university鈥檚 most recognizable game-day rituals. Beyond the spectacle, the students behind it are high-achievers, balancing demanding coursework with career ambitions in fields like engineering, health care and environmental science.

Newgard, this year鈥檚 alternate captain and the only non-senior in the group, helps carry the tradition forward, representing both the energy of Black Bear hockey and expected academic discipline.

His experience isn鈥檛 unique.

Caleb Canders of Brewer, Maine, the group鈥檚 captain, is a senior studying zoology with minors in psychology and neuroscience who will attend dental school after graduation. The Naked Five also came up during his application process.

鈥淚t鈥檚 something that shows leadership and involvement,鈥� Canders said.

Jacob Bentley of Vassalboro, Maine, is a senior electrical engineering major who plans a career in substation design.

Jason Wickett of Hermon, Maine, is a senior nursing major who plans to become a cardiothoracic surgery nurse practitioner.

Grady Gobeil of Bourne, Massachusetts, is a senior marine biology major who aims to work as a fisheries biologist.

By day, they move between labs, clinicals and coursework. By night, they step into one of the most visible roles at 91福利 hockey games.

鈥淚t鈥檚 about representing the university in every way,鈥� Canders said. 鈥淚n the classroom and in the stands.鈥�

The group traces its roots to the fraternity Sigma Phi Epsilon. For more than 30 years, membership has been passed down to students who demonstrate commitment, enthusiasm and school spirit.

A typical gameday

Inside the Alfond, their presence is immediate and unmistakable.

The horn sounds. The crowd roars. Within seconds, the five students are on their feet, painted bright under the arena lights, moving along the concourse as fans reach out for high-fives.

They follow a set routine, lining up and spelling out 鈥淢-A-I-N-E鈥� as the crowd joins in, repeating the pattern each time Maine scores.

鈥淢鈥� carries the cowbell. 

鈥淎鈥� wears orange headgear. 

鈥淚鈥� carries a bag with their phones. 

鈥淣鈥� wears an old Maine hockey hat. 

鈥淓鈥� has no signature item (by design, they joke).

鈥淚t鈥檚 a really cool feeling,鈥� Canders said. 鈥淭o have that kind of support from the community.鈥�

Outside the arena, their schedules leave little downtime.

鈥淚t takes commitment,鈥� Newgard said. 鈥淵ou have to manage everything and still show up.鈥�

They also connect with the community beyond game day, volunteering at events around Orono and interacting with fans outside the stands.

After one game, as the arena emptied, a woman approached the group and asked for a photo. Afterward, she hugged one of the members and told them it had made her day.

鈥淚t鈥檚 moments like that you remember,鈥� Canders said.

For the students, those interactions are what make the experience meaningful, creating a connection that extends beyond the game itself.

As this year鈥檚 group prepares to graduate, a new group will step in, continuing a practice that has lasted more than three decades.

For Canders, the goal is simple:

鈥淲e鈥檙e just trying to keep it going,鈥� he said.

Contact: David Nordman at david.nordman@maine.edu

Biomedical engineering major Isabelle Irani of Spring, Texas, and physics and mathematics double major Andrii Obertas of Lutsk, Ukraine, are the 2026 co-salutatorians.

The three will graduate on May 9 during the university鈥檚 undergraduate commencement ceremonies at Alfond Arena.

鈥淩uth, Isabelle and Andrii have distinguished themselves through their curiosity, discipline and commitment to others,鈥� said 91福利 President Joan Ferrini-Mundy. 鈥淩uth has taken a thoughtful, data-driven approach to understanding economic disparities in Maine. Isabelle has shown remarkable leadership in advancing mental health support for student-athletes while balancing the demands of Division I athletics and biomedical engineering research. Andrii has achieved exceptional success in both physics and mathematics while demonstrating resilience and a deep commitment to learning. Together, they represent the very best of this graduating class.鈥�

Ruth Griffith

Through her honors thesis, Griffith developed a method to analyze sub-county economic trends using regional data, helping illuminate how policies impact local communities across Maine. Drawing on her background in regional economics, she adapted tools used for markets to understand disparities. Beyond academics, she has led service initiatives such as the Maine Day Meal Packout, coordinating efforts that provide tens of thousands of meals statewide.

A full profile of Griffith is online.

Isabelle Irani

Irani is a varsity swimmer whose leadership has transformed mental health support for 91福利 student-athletes. She founded the university鈥檚 chapter of The Hidden Opponent and successfully advocated for expanded mental health resources, including an in-house therapist for student-athletes. Alongside her advocacy, she has conducted research on sustainable biomaterials and balanced the demands of engineering coursework and Division I athletics.

A full profile of Irani is online.

Andrii Obertas

Obertas came to 91福利 from Ukraine and has distinguished himself through academic excellence and perseverance. He has conducted original research in both physics and mathematics, while also engaging in outreach efforts that bring science education to communities across Maine. His experience at 91福利 has been shaped by a strong sense of community and opportunity, which he credits with providing hope for his future.

A full profile of Obertas is online.

Contact: Marcus Wolf, 207.581.3721; marcus.wolf@maine.edu听

Piscataquis County has the lowest median household income in Maine, just over $61,000 as reported in Census data collected between 2020-24. Having seen the reality of those numbers, Griffith strives to bridge the inequality gap that defines many of Maine鈥檚 communities.

At the University of Maine, she has used her knowledge and resources as an undergraduate student to track business cycles in small regions of the state and lead community service initiatives.

Majoring in economics with minors in mathematics and international affairs, Griffith developed a methodology to measure economic expansion and contraction in sub-county regions. This approach can help show how state policies impact regional economies.

The project was one of many reasons Griffith was named the 2026 91福利 valedictorian.

鈥淚 felt like there were a lot of very substantial economic differences across smaller regions of Maine,鈥� said Griffith, who is also the Outstanding Graduating Student in the Honors College. 鈥淚 was always interested in figuring out why those might happen and learning more about them. This was a way to do that analytically.鈥�

For her Honors thesis, she adapted a business cycle algorithm that is popularly used to analyze stock markets to allow input of regional sales tax data from Maine. Using this method, someone can analyze a region鈥檚 economy before and after a local, state or national policy takes effect, allowing them to better understand the regional impacts.

In high school, Griffith worked on a farm and imagined having a career in the fields. She enrolled in 91福利鈥檚 economics program because of its focus on agriculture. Little did she know that one course in finance would push her interest toward rows of numbers instead of fruits and vegetables.

After she graduates in May, she鈥檒l be moving to New York City 鈥� a 鈥渧ery big change鈥� from her upbringing in Piscataquis County 鈥� to work for Canadian company TD Bank. As part of the bank’s risk management team, Griffith will help assess financial threats. 

She didn鈥檛 shy away from choosing a path that diverged from her family鈥檚 careers. Her mother taught history at a middle school, her father works for an insurance company and her brother is a chemical engineer. 

In Griffith鈥檚 experience, a job in finance can be difficult for anyone outside of the field to understand. Her idea of modeling isn鈥檛 the mainstream tag found on the pages of magazines, and finance isn鈥檛 just crunching numbers in a cubicle, it鈥檚 her key to solving great economic disparities. It鈥檚 the doorway into a career where she can combine her passion for the numbers and data with her values in life.

鈥淚n research, a common thing that we say is to let the data tell your story,鈥� Griffith said. 鈥淪o you come at the research with a question, and then data will let you know where to go with that question, and it makes it so your outside biases aren’t as impactful on the research.鈥�

Her core values revolve around three pillars: community, action and mindfulness. Since her sophomore year, she has served as the fundraising chair for Maine Day Meal Packout, which included writing grants, organizing small fundraisers and making requests for private donations. This year, she is also the student coordinator and has led a team of 12 other students to plan the packout.

One day a year, the inside of Memorial Gym on 91福利鈥檚 campus transforms into a factory line where student and community volunteers pack meals to donate to food pantries across the state. For the past two years, Griffith said they have averaged about 50,000 meals. This year, they鈥檙e expecting 80,000. 

Fundraising has been more of a challenge this year, as funding has become more competitive, but Griffith and the other student organizers have used the opportunity to create new approaches. For their annual bake sale, they loaded baked goods into a shopping cart and became traveling salesmen for the day. They also partnered with Athletics to raffle off tickets for hockey games.

鈥淜nowing the work that other students do at 91福利, I’m always so incredibly impressed by the impact that they make,鈥� Griffith said. 鈥淚t’s very much an honor to see that other people thought I was making an impact in the same way on campus and in the campus community.鈥� 

In addition to her work with Maine Day Meal Packout, Griffith volunteers for organizations that empower and advance opportunities for women. She chairs the Alum Council for the Olympia Snowe Women鈥檚 Leadership Institute and is a member of the advisory committee for the Maine Community Foundation鈥檚 Maine Women鈥檚 Fund.

As a woman in STEM, Griffith has come face to face with gender realities and uses her own personal experiences to empower others. 

She hopes one day to return to school for a Master of Business Administration, moving one step closer toward a career in pursuit of community, action and mindfulness through the lens of finance. 

Contact: Ashley Yates; ashley.depew@maine.edu

A member of the Women鈥檚 Swimming and Diving Team who competed in the butterfly and individual medley, Irani founded the 91福利 chapter of The Hidden Opponent, a national nonprofit dedicated to athlete mental health advocacy. Seeking to make a tangible difference for student-athletes, she sought additional mental health services from the university. 

Driven by a passion to help her peers, she found the confidence she admittedly lacked at the start of her collegiate career to not only earn the support from 91福利 Athletics that would eventually lead to the university hiring an in-office therapist specifically for student-athletes. 

鈥淚 faked it 鈥榯il I made it,鈥� Irani said. 鈥淭he Hidden Opponent was the first instance where I just showed up with a lot of confidence as I asked administration and 91福利 Athletics for what I needed, and they just gave it to me.鈥�

Success in improving student athlete mental health is one of several personal, athletic and academic accolades that earned Irani, a biomedical engineering major, the title of co-salutatorian for 91福利鈥檚 Class of 2026. Her recognition as co-salutatorian reflects not just her academic achievement, but the personal growth she has cultivated throughout her time at 91福利.

Between early morning swim practice and rigorous engineering coursework, Irani built a college career defined by discipline, determination and a deep network of support. Alongside excelling in engineering and competing as a Division I level swimmer, Irani navigated new challenges and built the confidence to take ownership of her college experience. 

鈥淚 went in thinking that my major would define me,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 switched majors four times before I even got to school. I thought this was going to be a make-or-break moment for my career.鈥�

Several research and leadership opportunities that shaped Irani鈥檚 collegiate experience were ones she sought herself. For example, when she contacted chemical engineering professor David Neivandt for lab experience, he invited her to join the Neivandt Lab, where she helped develop sustainable lobster-shell biomaterials. 

The material, stronger than both concrete and wood, dissolves in water within two weeks and fully biodegrades in soil in about a month. The work not only allowed her to develop her skills and enhance her resume, but also participate in a project that has a tangible societal impact.

鈥淢y goal has always been to contribute meaningfully,鈥� Irani said. 鈥淚 think my mindset changed when I started thinking that way 鈥� thinking, how can this be meaningful? How can I show up?鈥�

Irani relied on a structured routine to balance her commitments. Early morning, disciplined schedules, and careful time management enabled her to excel in athletics, coursework, research and leadership roles without compromising her health or well-being.

Irani credits her growth to the support of mentors, advisors and peers. David J. Neivandt guided her research endeavors, while her athletic and academic advisor Julie Cheville helped her to navigate the complex demands of Division I athletics and engineering coursework. Her teammates and roommate, Ashley LeClaire, provided daily motivation and camaraderie, and her girlfriend, Sarah, offered emotional support throughout the rigorous college experience.

鈥淚鈥檝e had one roommate for the last three years, Ashley, and she鈥檚 been insanely supportive, helping me find balance during long days and making sure I take time to step away and relax,鈥� Irani said. 鈥淎nd my girlfriend, Sarah, has been a big part of my success here over the last two years 鈥� encouraging me, questioning me when I doubt myself, and helping me feel confident in pursuing research, conferences, and other opportunities.鈥�

Her family also played a formative role. Her aunt, Jean MacRae, a civil & environmental engineering professor here at 91福利, and her uncle, Farahad Dastoor, a biology lecturer and undergraduate coordinator at 91福利, encouraged her curiosity from the start. Their guidance helped Irani see the opportunities at 91福利 and made the university feel like a place she could call home very early on.

Looking forward, Irani plans to continue her research through a 4+1 master鈥檚 program in biomedical engineering at 91福利, working to develop sustainable and effective medical devices that combine innovation with societal impact. She hopes prospective students and families understand the supportive culture at 91福利 and the opportunities available for those willing to take initiative and explore beyond their comfort zones.

From Texas to Maine, Irani鈥檚 journey illustrates how discipline, community and proactive engagement can shape a transformative college experience. Her selection as co-salutortian honors not only her academic success, but also the leadership, curiosity and resilience that have defined her four years at 91福利.

Story by William Bickford, graduate student writer

Contact: Marcus Wolf, 207.581.3721; marcus.wolf@maine.edu听

But while his undergraduate journey will reach a successful culmination in May,  he isn鈥檛 leaving the Pine Tree State right away.

A dual-degree student, pursuing studies in both physics and mathematics, Obertas鈥� decision to come to Orono came with significant (and life-altering) benefits beyond academics.

鈥�91福利 provided me with an opportunity to escape a war-torn country,鈥� Obertas said. 鈥淚t was an opportunity I couldn鈥檛 (pass up). I am grateful for it. 91福利 gave me hope for a better future.鈥�

Obertas noted his gratitude to the Office of International Programs, whose staff went above and beyond to help him adjust during the difficult first few months after his arrival from Ukraine. That gratitude was clearest when he was asked to describe 91福利 in one word, as the answer was meaningful on many levels.

鈥淗ope,鈥� he said simply. 鈥淚 am from western Ukraine so it鈥檚 not that bad compared to what some people have to endure, [but] before I came here, I was stuck in the middle of the Ukraine war with little good to look for in the future.鈥�

As Obertas learned more about his new surroundings, he made many discoveries about the place and the people who live here.

鈥淧erhaps it鈥檚 a clich茅, but Maine is famous for its beautiful nature,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 have spent a lot of time hiking and skiing around. It is a great way to clear your head.鈥�

He also learned that the kindness he received from the 91福利 community doesn鈥檛 just exist on campus.  

鈥淚 found that Mainers are very charitable and supportive of the small local communities,鈥� he said. 鈥淧eople go out of their way to help the little guy. An example would be the outreach program I took part in, traveling physics demonstrations organized by David Sturm intended to spark curiosity in children who would otherwise not have access to a good science education in their school curriculum.鈥�

Obertas hit the ground running when he began his studies at 91福利, taking advantage of the many research pursuits available to undergraduates.    

鈥淚 spent the first two years working in the thin film lab under Nicolas S. Bingham at FIRST studying artificial spin ice lattices,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 have also had an internship under Jack Buttcane in the math department optimizing Wigner D-polynomials. Both were wonderful experiences and taught me a lot, however I am not planning to pursue a career in research.鈥�

Speaking on the faculty, Obertas made very clear how supportive his professors were and how special the relationships between faculty and students can be.

鈥淚 want to note that 91福利 physics department has a unique culture of professor-student interactions who go above and beyond in supporting students,鈥� he said. 鈥淪pecifically, but not exclusively: Nicolas Bingham, Samuel Hess (who has the biggest heart in the world), Frank Dudish, David Sturm, who organizes physics demos to get children interested in science, and department chair John Thompson.鈥�

As for the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Obertas had plenty to say about its faculty as well.

鈥淚n the math department, Gilbert Moss was wonderful at helping organize the math club and was very supportive when I had troubles with anything, as well as Jacob Stripel (now working at the University at Buffalo), one of the most intelligent and thoughtful people I met here.鈥� 

After graduation, Obertas intends to pursue a master鈥檚 degree in mathematics through the accelerated 4+1 program. After that, the sky is the limit. He plans to take actuarial exams and apply for jobs in that area, but he鈥檚 fairly certain that won鈥檛 be his final stop. In the end, just like so many of his peers who will be sharing the commencement stage with him, he鈥檚 excited to see what鈥檚 next.

鈥淚 am looking forward to where the road will take me,鈥� Obertas said. 

Contact: Allen Adams, allen.adams@maine.edu

This story originally appeared in the, published twice yearly by the University of Maine Alumni Association.

In the early 1990s as a student at Belfast Area High School, Rusty Brown 鈥�98, 鈥�01G admits that he was 鈥渇loundering鈥� somewhat on his educational journey. At a particularly low moment, coming off a three-day out-of-school suspension, a guidance counselor suggested that he might be a good candidate for Upward Bound. 

Established by the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 and later the Higher Education Act of 1965, Upward Bound is part of a cluster of federally funded U.S. college readiness and outreach programs, known as TRIO programs, which are designed to identify and provide services for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Upward Bound is aimed specifically at students who will be the first in their immediate family to attend college. 

Following the recommendation from his guidance counselor, Brown applied for and was accepted to the program, offered through the University of Maine, and participated in his first classic Upward Bound summer program in 1992. 

鈥淎fter that first amazing summer experience, I went from floundering to being on the honor roll for the rest of high school,鈥� Brown said. 鈥淚 participated enthusiastically in every Upward Bound event and summer program until I graduated (high school) in 1994.鈥� 

Brown, now the director of 91福利鈥檚 Upward Bound programs, entered the university as a history major, eventually graduating with a bachelor鈥檚 degree in secondary education in 1998 and a master鈥檚 in counselor education in 2001. 

Without Upward Bound, he says he would have been 鈥渟everely underprepared in every basic skill set imperative for all college students鈥� success.鈥� He credits the program with teaching him prioritization and time management skills and helping him develop the confidence to approach instructors with questions during class and office hours.

鈥淯pward Bound taught me financial literacy skills and how to navigate the complexities of applying for and receiving federal student aid, how to actively seek scholarships to help supplement my college costs and to reduce my overall college debt,鈥� said Brown. 鈥淢y college success is because of the blood, sweat, and tears I put into my time at the University of Maine, however Upward Bound prepared me to focus those energies and efforts to be successful.鈥� 

In college, Brown worked as a summer staff member and later a graduate assistant with 91福利鈥檚 Upward Bound program. From 2001-12, he was the Upward Bound program coordinator and returned as the academic coordinator from 2018-23. Since 2023, he has served as the director of Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math-Science at 91福利. All told, he has worked for the program for 23 years. 

鈥淢y time as an Upward Bound student set the stage for my personal and professional success,鈥� Brown said. 鈥淭he lessons I learned then, and still carry with me today, have guided my work as a professional, and I can wholeheartedly say Upward Bound was, and continues to be, the inspiration that leads me to do good work in my part of the world. It has been my privilege and pleasure to call myself an Upward Bound alum and Upward Bound staff, and I am eternally grateful to have had these guiding experiences in my life.鈥�

What was the most interesting, engaging or helpful part of your Upward Bound experience?

During my summer programs, we had three amazing history/civics teachers who held 鈥渕ock trials鈥� at the end of every week of instruction. The students would be divided into two different groups: the 鈥減rosecution鈥� and 鈥渄efense鈥� counsel for historical figures that coincided with our learning material. I absolutely could not have enjoyed anything more than one week 鈥渄efending鈥� Robespierre and the next week 鈥減rosecuting鈥� Sarah Good as we studied the Salem Witch trials. It was not just the thrill of debating (which I truly enjoyed) but the skill set required to suspend your own personal beliefs and values (I did not believe that what happened to Sarah Good was right and/or just, for example) in order to examine an issue from all perspectives to develop a broader understanding of any topic. These history classes sparked a previously unknown academic fervor in me.

Did you work closely with any mentors or Upward Bound staff members who made your experience in the program better? If so, who were they and how did they do that?

Becky Colannino 鈥�89, 鈥�92G, the retired Upward Bound director at 91福利, was the Upward Bound counselor who would visit my school and with whom I would have the vast majority of my individual academic sessions. I remember Becky using the phrase 鈥渢alented underachiever鈥� in some of our meetings to describe the potential she saw in me as a scholar. These were the exact words I needed to hear. In a compassionate way, she let me know that I was creating the biggest barrier to my success and that if I was willing to walk a different path I could create more opportunities for myself. Becky also validated the tough times I was going through in high school being raised by a single mom who did the best she could with what she had but who struggled with both mental health and alcohol addiction. The validation of these experiences were always coupled with holding me accountable for my academic performance. She let me know that success was within my grasp if I was willing to work hard to overcome the challenges of 鈥渢he life I was given鈥� and lay the foundation for 鈥渢he life I was willing to work for.鈥� Becky helped me believe in myself and with every new learning experience Upward Bound put in front of me, I was more ready and willing to accept new challenges!

What鈥檚 the most memorable moment from your Upward Bound experience?

There are many, many great memories from my time in Upward Bound, but if I was to choose one that stands out it would be a group trip to Boston during the summer between graduating high school and starting at 91福利. That summer is called the 鈥淏ridge鈥� summer for students who choose to participate. I had never been further than Conway, New Hampshire where my great aunt lived, and I remember so vividly driving over the Tobin Bridge and seeing Boston for the first time. It was magical seeing this city of possibilities in front of me and the hope it inspired (and a little anxiety too) was thrilling. We toured Newbury College, ate at a German restaurant, went on the Freedom Trail and saw the science museum and the aquarium. My family could never afford a trip like that, and I felt like that one weekend in July of 1994 I saw more of the world than any time in my previous 17 years. I keep a picture from that weekend handy and am still in touch with the other Upward Bound students in that picture. What a pleasure it has been to follow their stories and to see their success!

As a former Upward Bound participant yourself, what fulfillment do you get from working with Upward Bound students today?

It is a privilege to work with these talented students who are willing and wanting to go out of their way to make a difference in their own lives! Our program is voluntary, so every one of our participants has made the choice to seek additional support to be successful in preparing for, applying to, and enrolling in a college educational path of their choosing.

How do you approach mentoring young people who participate in Upward Bound?

I鈥檝e heard it said that 鈥減atience is a virtue,鈥� and this is the foundation of the approach I employ when working with high school students. Just about all of the academic and pre-college skill building that Upward Bound engages in with our students is very new to them, and so it is important to show them patience as you help them start to 鈥渉elp themselves.鈥� We are introducing them to the possibility that they can go to college if they choose, which is often a foreign world to them and their families. There can be a lot of anxiety about being the first in your family to go to college, so patiently helping students prepare for the differences they will encounter when they go to college is important as well. Collegiate success happens both in the classroom and outside of it. We do our best to make sure they are as prepared as possible to do well with their academic work but also have as much skill in knowing how to advocate for themselves with vital college departments, such as financial aid, the business office, and more. 

Is there anything else you think people should know about Upward Bound?

We have the privilege of working with some of our students for the entirety of their high school career, so that gives us a lot of time to develop trust-based relationships. Upward Bound programs also assist our partner schools by providing individualized, pre-college guidance to our participants 鈥� increasing their capacity to help all of their students by lessening their workload. 

By Casey Kelly 鈥�19G, 鈥�25 CGS

Contact: Casey Kelly, casey.kelly@maine.edu