Why did you choose to come to 91福利?

While I initially looked out of state, I chose 91福利 because of its strong engineering program and affordability. This choice has allowed me to thrive academically while staying close to the outdoor landscapes that I love, like Acadia and Sugarloaf. It has been the best environment for both my personal and professional growth.

Describe any research, internships or scholarly pursuits in which you have participated. How have they prepared you for future opportunities in your chosen field?

Through internships at GEI Consultants and TRC Companies, I gained hands-on experience in water resources and environmental engineering. My research using MATLAB to project king tides and sea level rise in Bar Harbor has prepared me to work towards promoting coastal resilience. Serving as a Maine learning assistant and grader further solidified my technical foundation and leadership skills.

Have there been other students who supported and inspired you or exposed you to something new? 

My roommates have supported me greatly, and my friends in civil engineering have been extremely helpful and fun. My friends Allison, Emily, Caroline, Oliver and Mason have always been there for me and inspired me to grow as a person. I have so much love for so many people I have met in Orono, and although I can鈥檛 list them all here, I am grateful to all of them. 

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at 91福利 better, and if so, how?

Tiago Bilo has mentored me through my research on projecting king tides and sea level rise in Bar Harbor and has helped me through the graduate school application process. Jean MacRae has guided me through serving as a Maine Learning Assistant for her 鈥淔undamentals of Engineering鈥� course and has provided helpful assistance with internship applications and career guidance. 

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

I have had the chance to ski most weekends in winter, explore Acadia in all four seasons, have lots of fun game nights, play a lot of trivia, eat a lot of Thai food and enjoy the 91福利 gym. 

What experiences have you had at 91福利 that really highlight the ingenuity of Mainers?

For my capstone project, I am helping redesign a client’s resourceful, DIY gravity-fed water system for a salmon rearing facility in Aroostook County. Working on a system that operates entirely without electricity requires us to think creatively and embrace the same “outside the box” mindset our client used to build it. This project perfectly highlights the practical ingenuity and self-reliance that define the Maine spirit. 

Did you have an experience at 91福利 that shaped or changed how you see the world?

My time at 91福利 has shaped who I am as a person. I have met new people, experienced new things, gone to new places and deeply explored my hobbies. All of this has changed how I see the world. 

Describe 91福利 in one word and explain. 

Inspiring.

91福利 has constantly challenged me to think differently, explore new interests and pick up new hobbies. I truly believe that your environment shapes who you are, and this community has inspired me to grow on many fronts. I鈥檝e been supported to pursue interests I may never have discovered otherwise and have gotten more out of 91福利 than I could have imagined.

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

鈥嬧�婭 plan to hike, camp and travel as much as I can this summer and head to the UK in the fall for graduate studies in marine science. After graduate school, I hope to work to promote the environmental resilience of coastlines and other ecosystems, wherever that may take me.

Story by William Bickford, graduate student writer

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

Why did you choose to come to 91福利?

Like many nontraditional students, I pursued higher education while balancing leadership roles, community service and family commitments. 91福利鈥檚 Bachelor of University Studies (BUS) program provided the flexibility, academic rigor and individualized guidance I needed to integrate my professional experience with a structured academic pathway. The BUS program is especially powerful for working professionals, caregivers and community leaders who may not see a traditional path forward in higher education. 

Describe any research, internships or scholarly pursuits in which you have participated. How have they prepared you for future opportunities in your chosen field?

Throughout my career and academic journey, I have demonstrated leadership by building and guiding diverse teams, fostering growth and navigating complex operational challenges. The BUS program enhanced my ability to connect theory to practice by bridging organizational leadership, sustainability, operations and strategic development. Academically, I approached each course with discipline and curiosity, viewing every assignment as an opportunity to deepen my understanding and refine my professional impact. The program鈥檚 interdisciplinary structure encouraged me to think holistically and to apply learning immediately within real-world contexts.

Have you participated in any extracurricular or public service activities?听

Service has always been central to my life. I currently serve as an active member with Rotary International, along with other professional associations. In addition, I volunteer with The Salvation Army and Ronald McDonald House Charities. I believe leadership is inseparable from service. My academic work has strengthened my ability to contribute meaningfully to these organizations through strategic planning, collaboration and thoughtful decision-making.

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at 91福利 better, and if so, how?

The support of exceptional faculty and my wonderful advisor Barbara Howard, along with the caliber of coursework, allowed me to participate in a degree that aligned directly with my leadership, operations and growth-focused career objectives. 

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

Earning this degree has strengthened my resolve to continue growing intellectually and professionally while contributing meaningfully to my community. I am profoundly grateful to the faculty, my advisor and the University of Maine for creating a program that empowers students to design an education that is both purposeful and transformative.

What鈥檚 on the horizon? What are your plans for after you graduate?听

I am committed to advocating for the BUS program and the opportunities it provides. I would welcome the opportunity to serve as an ambassador by speaking with prospective students, participating in alumni panels, mentoring nontraditional learners and engaging with community organizations to raise awareness about the program鈥檚 flexibility and academic excellence. I hope to share my experience as proof that it is possible to pursue rigorous academic achievement while honoring professional and family commitments. My hope is that others will see what is possible through the BUS program and take the step to begin, or continue, their own educational journey.

Story by Mello Vancil, news intern

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

Why did you choose to come to 91福利? 

I chose to study at 91福利 because it was close to home, and I received a significant amount of financial aid to attend. 91福利 also has an excellent Spanish and education program, and I already knew two of the Spanish professors.

Describe any research, internships or scholarly pursuits in which you have participated. How have they prepared you for future opportunities in your chosen field? 

I am currently at Bangor High School for my student teaching internship, where I am teaching Spanish at all grade levels (9-12).  Since I am planning on becoming a high school Spanish teacher after I graduate, this student teaching experience is preparing me for what I will be doing next year and many years to come.

Have there been other students who supported and inspired you or exposed you to something new? 

I have had a lot of support throughout my time at 91福利 but mainly through my family and friends. They have encouraged me to not give up despite things being difficult and overwhelming at times.

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at 91福利 better, and if so, how? 

Right now, I have a mentor teacher at Bangor High School, Evan Marshall, who is showing me how to teach Spanish in a more communicative way, something I had never been exposed to previously, and I am learning a lot from him.  All of my professors at 91福利 have been incredibly supportive these past three years, always willing to help and answer my questions. I would specifically like to thank Maria Sandweiss, principal lecturer of Spanish, who taught many of my 300-level Spanish classes, and Faith Erhardt, assistant dean for undergraduate student success in the College of Education and Human Development, for their support and encouragement. 

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

I have four young kids at home, and between them and school, I stay pretty busy. I don鈥檛 have time to explore anything else unless my kids come along for the ride.

Did you have an experience at 91福利 that shaped or changed how you see the world?

I am in a different season of life than most students who attend 91福利. I lived in Peru for almost six years before college, and my experiences there and my experiences as a mom have been what really shaped who I am as a person. 91福利 has been great, and I have learned a lot of Spanish and strategies for how to teach it, which have shaped who I am and would like to become professionally.

Describe 91福利 in one word and explain. 

Supportive. 

I became a single mom during my sophomore year, and despite the challenges I faced with that, I always felt supported by everyone here, students and professors alike. It was nice to have support from people who saw me every day, who didn鈥檛 really know my whole story but supported me all the same. It was encouraging.

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

My plan is to become a high school Spanish teacher somewhere in the Bangor area, but as of right now, I don鈥檛 know where that will be just yet. I am taking things one day at a time, but I am excited to finish this semester, be done with school and enjoy the summer with my kids.

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

Why did you choose to come to 91福利?

I really admired the faculty interactions and courses taken during my time with 91福利鈥檚 ExplorEC program in high school. Although I never toured 91福利鈥檚 campus beforehand, I attended the Maine All-State Music Festival conference in my senior year, where I fell in love with the campus atmosphere. 

Describe any research, internships or scholarly pursuits in which you have participated. How have they prepared you for future opportunities in your chosen field?

I鈥檝e interned at the 91福利 Writing Center, developed a creative project as a McGillicuddy Humanities Center Undergraduate Fellow, explored museum practice and research as a McGillicuddy Zillman Art Museum Research Curatorial Fellow and learned editorial management as one of the co-editor-in-chiefs for Spire: The Maine Journal of Conservation and Sustainability. Each of these opportunities has expanded not only my knowledge of literary and art history career paths but has provided me with a range of skills, from interpersonal communication to grant writing, which are applicable to so many other opportunities.

Have there been other students who supported and inspired you or exposed you to something new? 

The small cohort communities I found in my creative writing and art courses provided collaborative feedback and immense project inspiration, which has influenced the kind of interdisciplinary explorations I鈥檝e taken part in. There is always joy in sharing the art process with other students. I have also been inspired to pursue new skills, whether it be painting or cooking techniques, from my close friend and roommate, Sarina. 

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at 91福利 better, and if so, how?

Dr. Justin Wolff has truly gone above and beyond, not only by advising my Honors thesis but also by helping with editing my papers for presentation and supporting me in my post-graduation goals. Likewise, Dr. Hollie Adams was a wonderful mentor throughout my McGillicuddy Fellowship, encouraging me to intersect my creative exploration with my research interests. I could name so many other passionate, knowledgeable professors who listened, inspired and supported me throughout my time here. Thank you!

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

While still related to academic courses, my time learning various art mediums and processes has enabled me to explore so many different interests I wouldn鈥檛 have had the space, time or resources to explore otherwise. For instance, in ART 180 I鈥檝e recently learned that I love the film photography process, an interest I hope to continue beyond graduation. Similarly, being a part of creative writing cohorts and the Storied Club has often inspired me to work on my writing projects beyond the bounds of a classroom or assignment.

What experiences have you had at 91福利 that really highlight the ingenuity of Mainers?

As a Writing Center tutor and editor for on-campus journals, I have had the privilege of witnessing creativity, effort and determination through interactions with cross-disciplinary writers, artists and researchers. While I鈥檝e seen their innovative final works, I鈥檓 always incredibly humbled by how passionate our students are to put in the time and effort to pursue what interests them and what positively impacts our greater community. 

Did you have an experience at 91福利 that shaped or changed how you see the world?

In Spring 2023, I attended the 91福利 Singers tour to Italy. While not necessarily an experience at 91福利鈥檚 campus, I truly felt like my effort, time and passions could lead to opportunities beyond the bounds of my expectations. I also learned that while traveling to new places can be intimidating, you can always find reassurance and encouragement from the community and the connections you make.

Describe 91福利 in one word and explain. 

Connection. 

My time at 91福利 would not have been nearly as impactful or positive without wonderful friends, caring faculty and the cross-disciplinary explorations that are widely embraced. 

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

I hope to pursue a post-baccalaureate internship related to literature or the arts, and I aim to apply to graduate programs in art history this fall. My ultimate goal is to pursue a PhD in contemporary art history to become a college professor. 

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

Why did you choose to come to 91福利?

I chose 91福利 because of the outstanding School of Marine Sciences and the research experiences available, along with the opportunity to play field hockey at the Division I level within an incredible athletic community. 

Describe any research, internships or scholarly pursuits in which you have participated. How have they prepared you for future opportunities in your chosen field?

I participated in a three-week research program in Cancun, Mexico, where I examined the impact of coral disease on coral species in Xpu-Ha Bay and completed a capstone project comparing ocean temperatures in the Gulf of Maine to heart rate metrics of the mussel species Mytilus edulis. I interned for PricewaterhouseCoopers Canada for two summers in the internal and technology strategy groups. I have been a member of the 91福利 Field Hockey team since 2022 and was a captain in 2025. These experiences have improved my understanding of sustainability and corporate strategy, while helping me develop leadership, teamwork, research and time management skills and preparing me for the future.

Have there been other students who supported and inspired you or exposed you to something new? 

My teammates have always been supportive of me and inspired me throughout my time at 91福利, exposing me to many different aspects of life at the university, as we are all part of different programs.

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at 91福利 better, and if so, how?

Professors William Ellis and Paul Rawson have significantly enhanced my experience at 91福利 throughout my undergraduate degree. I worked with Dr. Rawson on my capstone project, and his guidance and commitment to his students really accelerated my learning. Dr. Ellis is my academic adviser and has been an excellent role model in the marine science department throughout my four years.

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

Beyond academics, I have learned so much about teamwork and commitment through my four years of Division I field hockey. The opportunity to study in Maine has also allowed me to live in a completely different part of the world and gain life experience away from home.

What experiences have you had at 91福利 that really highlight the ingenuity of Mainers?

I was struck by how the marine science program at 91福利 is so connected to the state鈥檚 environment and industries. Many of my marine science classes focused on investigating problems in local communities, rather than solely broader issues. This emphasis on local industry highlights the cohesion and ingenuity within the state.

Describe 91福利 in one word and explain. 

Supportive. 

Throughout my experience at 91福利, every professor, coach and adviser I have come across has been invested in the success of their students. The support system within the athletic community is strong, as is the support within the College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences. I feel as though I have built a close-knit network within the university.

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

After graduation, I plan to complete a Master of Science in Global Strategy and Sustainability at the University of Edinburgh, where I will continue to play field hockey for a year. Afterward, I plan to pursue a career in environmental, social and governance (ESG) and sustainability.

Story by Alexa Rose Perocillo, news intern

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

Why did you choose to come to 91福利?

91福利 occupies a sweet spot for colleges; it is large enough to offer countless opportunities yet small enough to feel like a close-knit community. I was drawn to the balance of strong academics, meaningful opportunities to get involved and a supportive environment that allows students to build lasting connections.

Describe any research, internships or scholarly pursuits in which you have participated. How have they prepared you for future opportunities in your chosen field?

I have completed two tax internships with BerryDunn and held several positions on campus, including as a First-Year Experience Intern and Students in Transition Intern at the Maine Business School and an undergraduate assistant in the Office of Institutional Research and Assessment, where I analyze the effectiveness of student success initiatives. These roles have strengthened my professional skill set, including effective communication, adaptability, critical thinking and the ability to apply feedback constructively. Together, these experiences have prepared me to approach problems analytically and to collaborate effectively in a professional setting.

Have there been other students who supported and inspired you or exposed you to something new? 

I have been fortunate to be surrounded by driven and supportive peers throughout my time at 91福利. Many of the students I’ve worked with at the Maine Business School have challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, take on leadership roles and pursue opportunities I might not have otherwise considered. The culture of ambition and support pushed me to grow both personally and professionally.

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at 91福利 better, and if so, how?

I have had the opportunity to work with many strong women at the University of Maine, many of whom I view as mentors. Julia Van Steenberghe, Associate Dean Patti Miles and Associate Provost Deb Allen are all brilliant leaders who bring great value to the spaces they serve. It has been such a privilege to work alongside them and learn from their leadership styles. 

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

Coming to 91福利 has allowed me to become deeply involved in student success initiatives, particularly within the Maine Business School. Through these experiences, I’ve developed a passion for supporting other students, improving programs and contributing to a more inclusive and effective learning environment.

What experiences have you had at 91福利 that really highlight the ingenuity of Mainers?

Growing up in Maine and attending 91福利, I’ve seen how people here approach challenges with a practical, solutions-oriented mindset. There’s a willingness to adapt, think creatively and make things work, even with limited resources.

Did you have an experience at 91福利 that shaped or changed how you see the world?

Through my work in institutional research and student success, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the diverse challenges students face. This experience has broadened my perspective and reinforced the importance of creating systems that support all students in achieving their goals.

Describe 91福利 in one word and explain.

Opportunity. 

There are so many different places to get involved on campus. There truly is a community for everyone, as long as you’re willing to take the initiative to find it. 

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

I will be joining BerryDunn full-time as a tax specialist this July, where I’m excited to begin my professional career.

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

Why did you choose to come to 91福利?

 I chose to come to 91福利 for the research opportunities and sense of community

Describe any research, internships or scholarly pursuits in which you have participated. How have they prepared you for future opportunities in your chosen field?

I have been involved as an undergraduate research assistant in the Maginnis Lab on campus since freshman year, where I have researched signaling mechanisms in JC and BK polyomavirus. I have also been part of the Phage Genomics RLE. I did a summer internship at Dahl-Chase Pathology Services last summer, and I work part-time as a medical assistant at Penobscot Valley Dermatology. The research experiences have developed my science communication, problem solving and lab procedure skills, to name a few. The internship and work as a medical assistant have given me valuable clinical experience, highlighted the realities and inner workings of healthcare and given me the opportunity to learn about a vast range of different diseases.

Have there been other students who supported and inspired you or exposed you to something new? 

There have been so many students who have supported me and made my success possible. Notably, my partner Maddie Stockman has always been there for me. A previous student in the Maginnis Lab, Aiden Pike set a very high standard both professionally and personally, and I often reach out to him for career advice. Other people include Connor Aylesworth and Keegan Tripp.

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at 91福利 better, and if so, how?

Yes, yes, yes. I have been under the wonderful advising of Dr. Melissa Maginnis for the last four years, and I can’t sing her praises loud enough. She has been my mentor in the lab, helping me gain research experience, apply to grants and internships and develop experiments. She has also helped me throughout my academic career, guiding me in both classes and the medical school application process. Dr. Maginnis is a huge positive influence in my personal life, supporting me in all of my endeavors and goals.

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

Coming to 91福利 has allowed me to explore the outdoors. I have enjoyed backpacking trips with friends, many weekends hiking up in Baxter or down in Acadia, fly fishing in nearby bodies of water and countless hours running and biking on all of the trails near campus. I feel like I try to do a little bit of everything that 91福利 has to offer, but I am definitely drawn to the outdoors.

Have you received any scholarships that supported you on your journey?

I have been generously supported by the Worthington Scholarship, the Chet Jordan Leadership Scholarship and other various scholarships, in addition to commitments from 91福利.

What experiences have you had at 91福利 that really highlight the ingenuity of Mainers?

Maine Day Meal Packout highlights the ingenuity of Mainers and 91福利 students. The initiative started about a decade ago, when students recognized that many communities in our state have high levels of food insecurity. Wanting to do something to address this issue, students fundraised to purchase ingredients to create shelf-stable, nutrient dense meals through a program called End Hunger New England. These meals are packed by student and community volunteers during Maine Day of Service, then distributed around the state. Fast forward about a decade and the project has funded over 800,000 meals for Mainers in need. Students stepping up to address a need truly demonstrates the ingenuity of Mainers.

Did you have an experience at 91福利 that shaped or changed how you see the world?

My experience as the outreach coordinator with Maine Day Meal Packout has helped shape how I see the world. Being involved with the project has shown me that it takes an army to accomplish something 鈥� we have a large leadership team working almost year-round to make the project happen 鈥� but all it takes is one person to spark something. Being involved with the project for multiple years has allowed me to watch as people join and share their passion and ideas for food insecurity and to understand that tangible action and change happen because of one individual’s spark and passion.

Describe 91福利 in one word and explain. 

Hearty. 

鈥� For a number of reasons. First, a large reason why I chose the University of Maine was the cheerful and vibrant culture. No where else did it seem like people were so happy to attend a school. You’ll be hard pressed to find another university with a student population that is as wholesome, as robust and as incredible as 91福利. Second, I think you have to be a little hearty to survive the long winters here; six months is a long time under the snow! Third, our hockey fans are loud and proud.

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

After I graduate, I will be starting at Tufts University School of Medicine Maine Track in July, where I will earn my MD with the intention to come back to Maine and practice as a PCP in a rural area.

Contact: Ashley Yates, ashley.yates@maine.edu

Why did you choose to come to 91福利?

I chose 91福利 because it felt like home. On my different visits, the coaches, staff, professors and employees were all so nice and caring; I wanted to be part of something like that.

Describe any research, internships or scholarly pursuits in which you have participated. How have they prepared you for future opportunities in your chosen field?

Last semester, I had the chance to be part of 鈥淚ntroduction to Topics in Management鈥� (MGT 290), a class where we worked with Aroma Joe鈥檚. Three groups of six received different prompts, and we had to research to come up with three suggestions for real-life issues. It was rewarding to research and propose solutions for tangible business challenges.

Have there been other students who supported and inspired you or exposed you to something new?听

In my time at 91福利, I was fortunate enough to have two mentors. Anne Simon, a former basketball player, was my mentor in my first semester. We both came from different countries and had different first languages. She helped me adapt to college. Aidan Cadogan was my teammate in my first year. He helped me navigate my first year of college football and still helps me to this day. He also introduced me to the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. Their support inspired me to become a mentor myself, ensuring the next generation of students feels as welcome as I did.

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at 91福利 better?

The entire 91福利 Athletic鈥檚 staff and business school faculty had a significant impact on my time at 91福利. They always took the time to help and guide me in the right direction. Samantha Wheeler is one of the Athletic鈥檚 staff who helped me during my time here. She helped me adapt to college and made sure I stayed on the right track throughout my degree. I am grateful for her continuous support.

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

I am part of different clubs and organizations. These helped me make new friends, get out of my comfort zone and gain experience in different fields.

What experiences have you had at 91福利 that really highlight the ingenuity of Mainers?

In football, we have the chance to be followed by many people. Every chance I have to talk to a fan after a game or during a community service event, I am always amazed by the resilience and the kindness of Mainers. We are lucky to be supported by so many great people.

Did you have an experience at 91福利 that shaped or changed how you see the world?

The first time I stepped into an NCAA Division I football game, one of my dreams came true. It made me realize that if you really want something, you work hard, and you believe in yourself, anything is possible.

Describe 91福利 in one word and explain.听

Meaningful.

My time at 91福利 has been shaped by many memories, lessons and life-changing events. All of these have made me who I am today. I am grateful for all these meaningful things that happened.

What鈥檚 on the horizon? What are your plans for after you graduate?听

I look forward to starting my master鈥檚 next fall at 91福利, where I hope to further my leadership and represent the Black Bear community on and off the field.

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

Even that decision set her apart from most of her peers in Derry, New Hampshire, where she grew up. While many of her classmates stuck close to home for college, Scaggs says she wanted a different experience.

鈥淚 was looking for more independence and 91福利 was far enough from home that I could have that, but still go home for a weekend or for the holidays,鈥� said Scaggs. 鈥淚t was the perfect decision for me. I loved 91福利 from the moment I set foot on campus. I never looked at another school and I never looked back.鈥�

Although she originally came to study nursing, Scaggs changed her major to elementary education after meeting other students in the 91福利 College of Education and Human Development, and hearing about why they wanted to become teachers. Having had a positive experience in school herself, she wants to one day provide that for others.

鈥淚鈥檝e always loved working with children and seeing the light in their eyes. In high school and middle school, I had some opportunities to work with kids in elementary school, so that鈥檚 what pulled me toward teaching and education,鈥� she said. 

Familiar campus was a big draw

Nick Ritchie grew up in Belfast, Maine, and took a different route to college. In high school, he was a track and field athlete, often competing in meets at 91福利 a little more than an hour from his hometown.

鈥淕oing to college close to home and being so familiar with the campus was a big draw for me. I鈥檓 also a huge skier and there鈥檚 a really good community of skiers who I鈥檝e met at 91福利,鈥� said Ritchie, who is majoring in kinesiology and physical education with a concentration in health and physical education.

During his first two years on campus, Ritchie was a member of the track team, competing in the pole vault. He says he鈥檚 interested in working with kids as a teacher and a coach, something the kinesiology and physical education program at 91福利 is helping him to prepare for.

鈥淚 wanted a career where I could continue to be active physically, and I feel like I can do that as a gym teacher while sharing opportunities and providing students with guidance about how they can be active and create lifelong healthy habits for themselves,鈥� he said.

Pinning and Recognition Ceremony

Ritchie and Scaggs are among nearly 70 91福利 teacher education students who have been invited to the College of Education and Human Development鈥檚 third annual Pinning and Recognition Ceremony on Friday, Jan. 30. The event was established to celebrate the college鈥檚 new teacher candidates 鈥� students who have reached the point in their academic career when they are able to start taking upper-level courses and have shown a commitment to becoming a teacher.

Like many states, Maine faces challenges with recruiting and retaining people to work in K-12 schools, contributing to a statewide of qualified educators. 91福利 System graduates the most in the state, and the flagship campus in Orono has the largest and most comprehensive educator preparation program serving Maine鈥檚 K-12 schools.

鈥淥ur public universities are the backbone of the teacher-preparation pipeline in Maine. Without them, our schools would be in even more of a bind when it comes to finding qualified educators. Kudos to 91福利 for creating an event to honor preservice teachers who have chosen such an important field, and congratulations to all of this year鈥檚 teacher candidates,鈥� said Mike Muir, a longtime Maine educator, who is currently principal of Maranacook Community Middle School and this year鈥檚 recipient of the College of Education and Human Development鈥檚 Robert A. Cobb Award for Extraordinary Service.

From coursework to the classroom

To earn teacher candidacy, 91福利 students must maintain a B or higher grade point average in their core lower-level courses. They also produce a portfolio that includes a field experience report reflecting on at least five full days, or about 30 hours, that they spend observing a K-12 classroom or another educational setting related to their major. It鈥檚 one of several opportunities that 91福利 education majors have to work directly with K-12 teachers and students during their program of study.

Scaggs did her 30-hour field placement at Old Town Elementary School, while Ritchie did his at  Oceanside High School in Rockland. Both have also participated in teaching experiences through their other coursework and as substitute teachers in local schools. Ritchie was able to parlay his observation placement into substitute teaching opportunities in Rockland. Meanwhile, Scaggs participated in RuSTIC, the Rural Substitute Teaching and Innovation Corps, part of the 91福利-led Rural Thrive professional development program for educators at different points in their careers. 

鈥淕etting first-hand experience is something I didn鈥檛 realize would happen before student teaching, but it鈥檚 really important to be exposed to those situations early,鈥� said Scaggs. 鈥淭o be able to observe and take in what your mentor teacher is doing, and not really have any pressure on you to lead a lesson or manage classroom behaviors or any of that, it鈥檚 been so helpful and I have learned so much.鈥� 

Receiving teacher licensure in Maine

Ritchie said he was nervous before his observation, but the experience taught him how teachers handle the uncertainty and stress that come along with managing a classroom full of students. 

鈥淲hen you first go into it, you think it needs to go a certain way. But the more you are in a school setting, the more you gain confidence and see how you can just go with the flow and make quick decisions that benefit your lesson or what you鈥檙e trying to teach,鈥� Ritchie said.

Scaggs and Ritchie will be completing their final student teaching placements in the fall of 2026, after which they will graduate and be automatically recommended for initial teacher licensure from the State of Maine.

The College of Education and Human Development Pinning and Recognition Ceremony is being held Friday, Jan. 30 from 4-5:30 p.m. at Wells Conference Center.

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

While pursuing his bachelor鈥檚, master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees, Juybari, a San Diego native, worked for Faster Logic LLC, a small defense-focused research and development company in his hometown, providing web and engineering support. Two semesters into his Ph.D. program in 2021, Juybari paused his studies for five months to serve as the company鈥檚 acting CEO after its founder, Raymond Moberly, unexpectedly passed away. Juybari led the company through a government audit and handled operations and personnel.

鈥淪tepping into that role was unexpected, but it was important to me to support the work Raymond had built over seven years,鈥� Juybari said. 鈥淚t was a demanding time, and I learned a great deal about leadership, people and how research moves from concept to real-world development. After working through circumstances beyond my control, the company ultimately dissolved. Once things settled, I returned to 91福利 to continue my Ph.D., which had always been my long-term plan.鈥�

After completing his undergraduate economics and interdisciplinary studies degree at San Diego State University, he sought to expand his technical knowledge and research capabilities, which ultimately led him to pursue graduate study at 91福利. Once he completed the math degree, Juybari immediately began his Ph.D. in electrical and computer engineering. 

鈥淲hen you have a good background in math, it makes learning AI much easier,鈥� Juybari said. 鈥淵ou start to realize AI is a bunch of matrix multiplications. Without that strong foundation, it can look like magic.鈥�

While working at the CompuMAINE Lab on coding and AI research, he learned how this technology could help save lives through improved AI for cancer diagnosis and reduce healthcare disparities. 

鈥淚 originally wanted to study economics, but it was math that brought me here,鈥� Juybari said. 鈥淎s I got deeper into research, I realized how many people die from cancer, sometimes simply because they were missed due to healthcare disparities. That really stuck with me.鈥�

Juybari鈥檚 Ph.D. research focuses on AI for medical imaging and cancer detection. He developed the Context-Guided Segmentation Network (CGS-Net), a model that combines detailed tissue features with broader contextual regions to improve the identification of cancerous tissue in microscopic images of biopsied tissue.

Earlier this year, Juybari and his colleagues published their research in the journal (part of the Nature portfolio) in a paper titled 鈥淐ontext-guided Segmentation for Histopathologic Cancer Segmentation.鈥� The paper was featured by the for its innovative approach to improving AI accuracy in medical imaging. The study introduced a novel method in which the model learns how to integrate both local tissue features and broader contextual information, demonstrating how careful model design can enhance predictions in complex histological datasets.

鈥淥ne of the biggest challenges I鈥檝e seen in medical AI is the lack of common benchmarks,鈥� Juybari said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 kind of like the wild west, where researchers use different datasets, and  medical image datasets are often large and complex.鈥�

91福利鈥檚 mentorship and resources have been central to Juybari鈥檚 success. His co-advisors, Andre Khalil and Yifeng Zhu, offered both guidance and freedom, allowing Juybari to explore ambitious ideas. The Advanced Research Computing, Security, and Information Management (ARCSIM) group provided the computing power and collaborative environment that enabled his research.

Collaboration has defined his graduate journey. Juybari鈥檚 partnership with fellow Ph.D. student Josh Hamilton has been a cornerstone of his research and personal life. They鈥檝e spent long nights tackling complex coding challenges, and have even shared key life moments.

鈥淚 couldn鈥檛 imagine 91福利 without Josh,鈥� Juybari said. 鈥淲e work together on a majority of our research. Our strengths and weaknesses complement each other. We laugh a lot, it鈥檚 fun.鈥�

Juybari also met his wife, Simona Mitevska, while living in Stodder Hall in 2019. He was studying mathematics then, and she was pursuing master鈥檚 degrees in economics and global policy. Their shared love of numbers and research turned into a lasting relationship. Today, Mitevska works as a senior research analyst in 91福利鈥檚 Office of Institutional Research and Assessment.

For Juybari, an interdisciplinary background and collaborative mindset are what drive him forward 鈥� whether leading a company or developing AI to fight cancer.

鈥淵ou can鈥檛 know it all,鈥� Juybari said. 鈥淓ven within AI, there are so many different parts to one model. You could be well-versed with one part, have an understanding of another, but not be an expert in everything. You have to work with teams and trust that others will know things you don鈥檛. If you try to do everything yourself, then what鈥檚 the point of working in a team?鈥�

Looking ahead, Juybari remains open to where his path leads next.

鈥淚 like to keep an open mind,鈥� Juybari said. 鈥淢y interdisciplinary background has taught me to see challenges from different angles. I鈥檓 driven more by curiosity and problem-solving than by following a fixed path, and I鈥檓 excited to see where that leads next. 鈥� 

Story by William Bickford, graduate student writer. 

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

A University of Maine Ph.D. candidate in biomedical engineering, Hamilton鈥檚 work focuses on breast and pancreatic cancer by developing novel image analysis techniques to quantify the tissue structure that surrounds tumors, a project he began during his master鈥檚 program at 91福利 and has continued into his doctoral research. 

Through his research, Hamilton works to better understand how the tissue around tumors affects cancer growth. He uses computer programming, image analysis and machine learning to study medical images, borrowing ideas from physics to look at patterns on different scales. 

His passion for cancer research first took shape while studying bioengineering, though the decision to tackle cancer stemmed from his personal experience.

鈥淚 found bioengineering first, and then realized, due to trauma, I wanted to make sure people didn鈥檛 have to feel that way because of something that they can鈥檛 control,鈥� Hamilton said. 

Working with his doctoral advisor, Andre Khalil, on analysis and physics, and with his former master鈥檚 degree advisor, Karissa Tilbury, on biology and imaging, Hamilton studies slides of tissue and breast scans to find ways to detect and potentially treat cancers earlier. His early work on examining collagen in pancreatic tumors, inspired by personal loss, set the stage for his future research on early cancer detection.

Hamilton has also participated in developing tools to make breast cancer detection more efficient. Alongside fellow Ph.D. student Jeremy Juybari and others, Hamilton played a role in the development of the Context Guided Segmentation Network (CGS-Net), an AI system that mimics how pathologists study tissue slides to improve the speed and accuracy of breast cancer diagnoses. He describes his research approach as big-picture, complementing the detail-oriented style of Juybari, with whom he has formed a long-standing friendship.

鈥淚 think one reason Jeremy and I work so well together is that we approach problems differently,鈥� Hamilton said. 鈥淗e鈥檚 extremely detail-oriented, while I鈥檓 more of a big-picture person. He thinks bottom-up, I think top-down, and that balance has made our research and friendship really strong. He鈥檚 the last person still here from when I joined the lab, and I鈥檓 probably closer to him outside of work than I am at work.鈥�

A senior member of the CompuMAINE lab, Hamilton also mentors undergraduate, master鈥檚 and fellow Ph.D. students while collaborating closely with Khalil and Tilbury. Outside the lab, Hamilton is deeply involved in teaching and mentoring. He recently took on full lecturer responsibilities for courses in medical image analysis.

鈥淚鈥檓 teaching Dr. Khalil鈥檚 medical image analysis courses while he鈥檚 on sabbatical, so it鈥檚 just me now,鈥� Hamilton said. 鈥淚鈥檓 not the teacher鈥檚 assistant or the tutor; I鈥檓 the teacher. That was a big milestone for me, and I鈥檝e really enjoyed it. I think you need empathy to be a good teacher, and I love seeing that light bulb moment when someone finally gets a concept.鈥�

Hamilton first came to 91福利 as an undergraduate in 2017 because of scholarships, such as the Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) Scholarship, and programs that allowed him to combine his interests in music and bioengineering. He has stayed for his master鈥檚 and Ph.D., drawn to the opportunities of conducting cutting-edge research in a smaller, rural university environment.

Outside of research and teaching, Hamilton maintains an active extracurricular life. A percussionist, he was formerly part of 91福利鈥檚 pep band. He is also a competitive 鈥淪uper Smash Bros. Melee鈥� player, organizing tournaments and managing the state community.

It鈥檚 Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, and as Hamilton works to develop tools to detect this disease faster, anyone interested in learning more about it and contributing to the fight against it can visit the website. 

Story by William Bickford, graduate student writer.

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

鈥淚 like being outside,鈥� Rosenberg said. 鈥淚 had an adviser in high school who told me about the program (at 91福利), and it seemed like a good place to learn about being outside and doing things outside, and financial aid was helpful.鈥�

Since arriving in the 2023 fall semester, opportunities to collaborate with peers and industry leaders has reinforced what he鈥檚 learned at 91福利: that the outdoors can be both a classroom and a catalyst for change. He worked with a nonprofit in Millinocket that revitalizes local communities through summer recreation. The experience, he said, changed how he envisions his future. 

鈥淚t showed me that you can help people make a difference through outdoor recreation. I used to think I鈥檇 work for the national parks, but I realized I enjoy helping people more directly,鈥� Rosenberg said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 really exciting to help shape how Maine supports outdoor recreation and accessibility.鈥� 

When he came to 91福利鈥檚 landscapes quickly became part of his identity. Though he had camped and hiked growing up, skiing was new. 

鈥淚鈥檇 been skiing maybe half a dozen times before college,鈥� he said. 鈥淏ut when I came here, I started skiing like crazy. I go every weekend in the winter.鈥�

Rosenberg joined the Maine Outing Club as a first-year student and now serves as its treasurer. He also helps manage the club鈥檚 cabin at Sugarloaf, where he spends many of his weekends. 

鈥淭hat cabin was an integral part of me loving skiing so much,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t gave me a place to stay and a community that shared my interests.鈥�

Through his involvement on campus, Rosenberg also found professional direction. He works at Maine Bound Adventure Center, instructing climbing trips and helping other students discover the outdoors. As a fellow with the Tourism, Hospitality and Outdoor Recreation Institute, he is helping Maine Bound transition its rental program for gear into a library 鈥� a model that allows community members to borrow equipment at little or no cost.

鈥淲ith a gear library, if you have a library card you can rent things either for a really discounted price or for free,鈥� Rosenberg said. 鈥淲e want to make getting outside easier for everyone.鈥�

His leadership and initiative earned him a place on the Maine Outdoor Brands Student Advisory Board, a statewide coalition connecting students from outdoor-focused programs across Maine. The board serves as a bridge between emerging recreation professionals and the state鈥檚 growing outdoor economy.

For students who might be nervous about trying something new outdoors, Rosenberg offers simple advice: 鈥淵ou can start at whatever level you want. No one鈥檚 born with these skills; everyone learns them. If you want to do these things, you definitely shouldn鈥檛 be discouraged.鈥�

After completing his bachelor鈥檚 degree in the 2027 spring semester, Rosenberg plans to enter 91福利鈥檚 4+1 MBA program and continue building a career in nonprofit outdoor recreation. He hopes to guide and instruct climbing and skiing while supporting programs that expand access to Maine鈥檚 wilderness.

Story by Corey Nicholas, student news writer

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

Raised in Orrington, Maine, Harriman has always had an affinity for the outdoors. After graduating from John Bapst Memorial High School in 2022, he chose to attend the University of Maine for its comfortable proximity to home and extensive history program. However, his time in Orono has led him away from the Maine woods and towards the search for lost history. 

As a history major and anthropology minor, Harriman was looking for senior-year field research to round out his resume. He went to his professors for recommendations and they directed him towards , an Italian-based research project whose name in English translates to Excavation, Remote Sensing, Study of Materials and Landscape of the Sette Comuni Plateau.

鈥淎lways go to your professors. Dr. Daniel H. Sandweiss and Dr. Bonnie Newsom gave me incredible options for field work,鈥� Harriman said.

STEMPA aims to bring students and researchers together to conduct and assist with excavations and archaeological surveys carried out in the Veneto-Trentin Highlands in Northern Italy.

In the spring, Harriman signed up for STEMPA鈥檚 summer dig, a three-week excavation of Bostel di Rotzo, an ancient mountain settlement that dates back to the Second Iron Age. As part of a team of university students and faculty from around the world, Harriman was there to help with archeological analysis. In particular, he was there to perform geophysical surveys. 

鈥淚 mostly worked on finding air pockets in the ground, as well as perfectly circular post-holes,鈥� he said. 鈥淲hat was interesting was the air pockets didn鈥檛 align with what archeologists had originally interpreted as their purpose. I worked with them to come up with the idea that poachers in the 1800s might have dug further than we had assumed.鈥�

Harriman used the skills taught in Bostel di Rotzo as preparation for his future career. 鈥淚 know how to perform stratigraphic excavations and archeological context recordings,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 also learned the basics of my job, like traveling and proper shoveling.鈥�

In addition to exploring lost history at an archaeological site, Harriman helped uncover an untold part of a renowned scientists鈥� story, work that earned him a university honor. In May, Harriman was awarded the Hildegarde B. Perkins fund by the 91福利 History Department for his research paper 鈥淭he Multifaceted Legacy of Dian Fossey.鈥�

During his research, Harriman struggled to find direct writing by Fossey. His intrigue led him to an online auction that included Fossey鈥檚 personal letters dating back to 1972 during her work as a conservationist. Harriman credits this discovery and his subsequent publishing of the letters as his biggest achievement. 

鈥淪hane demonstrated that Fossey was a complex figure, who carefully shaped her public image to champion the cause of wildlife conservation while downplaying her tense relationship to local communities in conservation areas,鈥� said Mary Freeman, associate professor of New England history at 91福利. 鈥淪hane went above and beyond with his research to find a trove of Fossey鈥檚 correspondence that was only available through digitized copies of letters posted to an online auction website.鈥� 

Harriman cited Fossey for his inspiration for hands-on learning, and credited 91福利 for its variety of field-school opportunities. 

鈥淐ollege gives lots of opportunities. I鈥檓 so grateful that鈥檚 something we all get access to at 91福利,鈥� Harriman said. 鈥淚 feel as though I鈥檝e been able to learn the importance of others鈥� beliefs. 91福利 helped give me a glimpse of the genuine importance of differing perspectives.鈥�

With graduation approaching in the spring, Harriman plans to apply for his master鈥檚 degree and continue his pursuit of lost history. 

Story by Mello Vancil, news intern

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

A junior from Windham, Maine, Dries landed an internship with Orange Bike Brewing Co. through the Innovate for Maine Fellows program. He鈥檚 not just learning about the booming non-alcoholic beer industry; he鈥檚 helping shape it. 

鈥淚鈥檓 piloting a project with Orange Bike to develop and refine their approach to producing and distributing non-alcoholic beer,鈥� said Dries, a Maine Business School and Honors College student majoring in business information systems and security management. 鈥淚鈥檓 also researching production methods, market trends and the feasibility of launching our product. On the side, I鈥檝e been taking photos for marketing, helping brew beer and planning events!鈥�

With a passion for purpose-driven work and a willingness to dive in and figure things out, Dries is proving that small companies can offer big opportunities.

鈥淚t鈥檚 (the internship) allowed me to see what goes into running an innovative and contemporary business. There are a lot of very unique, very successful businesses in Maine that help shape our economy, and there鈥檚 a lot of need for them to be able to adapt and grow as values change,鈥� Dries said. 鈥淏eing able to be part of one has shown me how these businesses can thrive and embrace the changing Maine economy, which is something I want to be a part of.鈥� 

Read the full story about Dries鈥� experience at Orange Bike on the Maine Business School website.听

Contact: Melanie Brooks, melanie.brooks@maine.edu

Why did you choose to come to 91福利?

I came to 91福利 because of the beautiful campus, friendly community atmosphere and wide variety of majors to choose from. 

How have your experiences prepared you for future opportunities in your chosen field? 

One of the most impactful things I have done as a student was an internship. Last summer I participated in the Internal Audit Corporate Internship at Aetna Healthcare. This experience exposed me to corporate professionalism etiquette and gave me opportunities to hone my skills giving presentations and mastering MS Office applications. 

Have there been other students who have supported and inspired you?

My roommate, Kayla Holcomb, has supported and inspired me. We have been friends since sophomore year, and she has always been a supportive friend. We both worked as MBS Ambassadors and Peer Leaders. She is someone who is always willing to try new things with me, offers wonderful advice, and makes me laugh like no other. It’s a friendship I know I’ll cherish for the rest of my life.

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor, or role model who made your time better at 91福利?

I was fortunate to be hired as a teaching assistant for Dr. Patti Miles鈥� MGT 337 course this past fall. She helped me come into my own as a leader and decision-maker. Under her guidance, I developed into a more confident and capable individual. This experience helped me hone my time management, communication, and leadership skills.

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

Coming to 91福利 has enabled me to explore and participate in various clubs and organizations. Some clubs I鈥檝e been involved in include Celtic Dance, Figure Skating and SPIFFY (the Student Portfolio Investment Fund). 

Did you have an experience at 91福利 that shaped or changed how you see the world?

The 鈥淚ntroduction to International Business鈥� (MGT 343) class with Dr. Stefano Tijerina changed how I see the world. I learned about various elements of business-related decision-making around the globe, allowing me to see different sides of international business from other countries鈥� perspectives. Dr. Tijerina challenged me to think deeply about my own ethical standing, which is a reason this class was so impactful.

Describe 91福利 in one word:

Comfortable. 

Since my first year here, I have felt safe expressing myself and pursuing my interests in and outside of the classroom.

What鈥檚 on the horizon?

I plan to continue my education in the Graduate School of Business, earning my MBA with a concentration in finance. While studying, I will work as a graduate assistant at the University of Maine Advanced Structures and Composites Center. 

Contact: Melanie Brooks; melanie.brooks@maine.edu

Each week, Closson and Martin travel to Witter Farm to work in the equine and dairy cattle barns, greeted by the sounds of mooing cows, neighing horses and cliquing hooves. Closson, an animal and veterinary sciences major with a concentration in equine sciences, oversees her peers as they feed the horses, clean their stalls and take them on trail rides. Martin, third-year animal and veterinary sciences major with a concentration in pre-veterinary sciences, teaches other students how to milk cows and monitor their health. 

According to Closson and Marin, hands-on learning experiences like these are a unique aspect of 91福利鈥檚 AVS program. Students like them gain a tremendous sense of fulfillment from working with and learning from the animals on campus. Martin explained her interest in the program with a quote from her mother: 鈥淐hase the dream, not the money.鈥� 

Galloping toward success

Before attending 91福利, Closson of Hancock, Maine had no experience working with horses. Despite the lack of experience, she found an opportunity to grow and develop her skills with the program鈥檚 equine internship. 

鈥淚 had never interacted with horses before starting the AVS program. After I started working with the 1,200-1,500 pound animals, I realized that this is what I wanted to do with the rest of my life. Through school, I get to work with these animals, and it makes getting through tough classes worth it,鈥� said Closson.  

The hands-on experiences the program provides were crucial in developing Closson’s confidence to properly work with the horses in the barn. 

鈥淢addie has always been passionate about animal science and seeks every opportunity to learn about livestock and the industry. She has held multiple positions in the industry and I have no doubt that she will be a key player in Maine agriculture in the future,鈥� said Maddy Philbrick, AVS program coordinator and advisor. 鈥淪he is driven and passionate, I have seen her thrive at the Witter center really becoming an agricultural leader. Maddie has experience in the Maine commercial dairy, poultry, and equine industries and brings all of this experience into her work at Witter.鈥�  

Learning with livestock

Martin of Pittsfield, Maine, gained experience working with small animals before starting her studies at 91福利. 

鈥淪amantha served as an undergraduate TA in my course last semester and proved she was a natural leader and manager,鈥� said Philbrick. 鈥淪he helped facilitate and manage her peers in the dairy barn showing an impeccable amount of tenacity and time management balancing the needs of the course and her own courses.鈥� 

Martin worked as a teaching assistant for the AVS 347 Dairy Cattle Technology Laboratory course, through which students learned not only how to properly milk the cows, but also draw blood, complete a successful pregnancy test and perform other tasks that support cow health. 

鈥淚 had never worked with livestock before college. However, after I started working with the cows on the farm, it gave me a broader outlook on the field of veterinary medicine and veterinary sciences itself,鈥� said Martin. 鈥淚t has taught me a lot about leadership. I needed to step up with being reachable, my communication has improved dramatically this semester, I have also become more organized taking ownership of situations.鈥� 

Memorable mentorship 

Closson credits her academic success to various mentors in the Animal and Veterinary Sciences program, including associate professor Robert Causey, Philbrick, Witter Farm Superintendent Patricia Henderson and other students and faculty who accompanied her on the farm. 

鈥淢addy Philbrick and Patricia Henderson are my biggest supporters through my program as they will answer any of my questions no matter how ridiculous and have pushed me to be my best self at Witter farm. I鈥檓 able to work alongside Patricia and learn from her,鈥� said Closson.   

Martin said Philbrick is one of the most important mentors to her academic success. 

鈥淪he was the herd manager for my first two years, then recently she became an advisor for 91福利. She has helped us bring funds and attention to the program. She will fight and advocate for you to help you get the opportunities you want,鈥� said Martin.

Learn more about Closson鈥檚 and Martin鈥檚 experiences in the Animal and Veterinary Sciences program in their episode of 91福利鈥檚 鈥淒ay in the Life鈥� series available on and . 

Story by news and social media intern Luke ONeil.

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

Thompson, who is double majoring in political science and women’s, gender and sexuality studies, has been working with 91福利 UVote, a student-led advocacy group that helps people register to vote and offers education and outreach on engaging in the election process. During the general election, they will join dozens of other student poll workers from UVote  to help manage the polls, assist with same-day registration, hand out ballots and keep records of who voted. On Oct. 30, they and other volunteers helped Orono residents vote early and register. 

鈥淚 know a lot of students are really worried about the results of the election, but I think that the most important thing to do is to get out and vote and make sure that you are informed,鈥� Thompson said. 鈥�91福利 UVote has a lot of resources, and other organizations provide resources on how to answer questions on the ballot. 鈥�

Thompson has also been working with associate professor of political science and honors Rob Glover as a research assistant since August, gathering data surrounding poll worker recruitment and the impacts of serving as a poll worker. 

During their research with Glover, Thompson found that recruiting citizens to work as poll workers on election day is difficult. However, shared concern regarding the integrity of the election process helped make it easier. This concern motivated citizens to work the polls during election day to ensure the legitimacy of the electoral process and help protect democracy. 

鈥淢ak was invaluable to our field research, engaging directly in canvassing, phone banking and collaborating with Maine鈥檚 town clerks. Their hands-on work was crucial to understanding the factors that support successful poll worker recruitment and some of the challenges faced by our local election officials,鈥� Glover said. 

Outside of the classroom, Thompson serves as president of 91福利鈥檚 branch of Triota, the national honors society for women鈥檚, gender and sexuality studies, and helps organize events to provide resources to the 91福利 community. Thompson is a tutor on campus and previously worked with the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, which helped them feel more connected to the campus community.

We spoke to Thompson more about their experience conducting poll worker recruitment research and learning about the importance of working the polls directly from citizen volunteers.

How did you get involved with UVote? 

I am a political science major, so I am included in emails that every student in the department receives. However, I am also currently a research assistant for professor Rob Glover. He reached out, expressing that I would be a good fit for UVote due to the fact that I enjoy helping people make informed decisions and get the information required to make an informed vote. 

Tell us more about the work you will be doing as a poll worker on election day. 

On election day, I will most likely be in the Collins Center helping people register to vote 鈥� whether or not that means someone has a form of ID on them, knows their address, or just being able to get registered and fill out that card with them 鈥� or handing out the ballots to people and sitting down with them, and checking their names off the list and making sure that gets done. To prepare for this role, we had a Zoom meeting with the former liaison for the town of Orono. She walked us through how to appropriately get someone registered and make sure that there are no mistakes, and making sure we understand that it is okay to ask for help if you are unsure how to help the person, because you may not know how to help. We want to make sure that everyone has the ability to vote. 

Can you describe your research surrounding poll worker recruitment and how the role impacts volunteers?  

I have been doing this since August. We started calling citizens from towns like Standish and Winslow to see if they were interested in working the polls. As much as I would like to say that a lot of people said yes, it was very hard to get people to say yes. We also asked them what they thought about helping democracy, and many people were worried about the upcoming election. We wanted to give them that ability to help and understand that elections are being run safely in Maine. It has been really moving to hear how people view the importance of the upcoming election and the work they will be doing in addition to voting. 

How have UVote and your research prepared you for your future endeavors? 

Working as a research assistant, I have learned so much about how to gather data, how to put that data and how to make that data mean something. I feel that I want to work in nonprofit fields and help people, whether that means in a political science field, like voting or along those lines, or just simple community activism. I think that working as a research assistant has helped me figure out many ways to help people. As a student, I am continuously learning, but I have learned so much since this job started in August. I have been able to learn how to independently work and be confident in myself and the work that I am producing, and that the work I am doing means something, especially in regards to bettering the environment for coworkers and their needs. 

Have you worked closely with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at 91福利 better, and if so, how? 

A lot of the work I have been doing has been with Rob Glover, and he has shown me that the work I am doing is going to get me somewhere and add value to his work. I struggled before with confidence and that I was doing work that would amount to something and not just doing an assignment. The work that I am doing is not necessarily a part of my degree, but it has definitely influenced my interest in a career in policy writing and changed the outlook I have when I do assignments. He has also helped me as a mentor with filling out applications, and he has invited me to attend a conference in Puerto Rico to discuss our findings for the Maine chapter of the national Scholars Strategy Network. Assisting in writing policy on this project has influenced my interest in future policy writing and how I view my future career path. Someone else who has influenced me is Taylor Ashley, who no longer works at 91福利, has impacted the work I have done at 91福利. Working for the Office for Diversity and Inclusion showed me that no matter what I was doing, it was making an impact on campus.

Story by news and social media intern Luke O’Neil.

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

鈥淎s the tournament goes on, more and more people will leave and not come back,鈥� Lamson said. 鈥淭he people who are left are all watching you. All gathered around in silence, intently, like it’s a chess game.鈥�

Lamson, a junior at the University of Maine double majoring in English and political science, placed second at the regional tournament in February. Along with clout among local Magic players, his finish came with a $15,000 award and a guaranteed spot in the Magic: The Gathering World Championship happening Oct. 25-27 in Las Vegas. 

He said the atmosphere will be electric, charged by nerves and perspiration. 

鈥淚t’s this wall of bodies to your left or to your right,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t’s just you and your opponent and a camera and a judge. And you just have to hope you play your best; you have to hope the cards line up.鈥�

Lamson is the first person from Maine to qualify for the World Championship, a demographic just as uncommon as his age. He usually plays against 30 and 40 year olds. At competitions, Lamson said he can tell when an opponent is discounting him because he鈥檚 a teenager from Maine.

鈥淚’ve always found in competition when I get that vibe from someone, like they’re underestimating you, that it encourages me to do better,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 want to prove them wrong.鈥�

He attended a second regional championship at the end of May in Dallas and before that the Magic: The Gathering Pro Tour, a three-day tournament in April. Two hundred of the best players worldwide came to Seattle for a top prize of $50,000. Lamson was one spot away from a top 50 finish that would have qualified him for another pro tour.

Despite the loss, Lamson said the experience boosted his confidence to play against top competitors in Las Vegas. He beat the reigning world champion, Jean-Emmanuel Depraz of France, at the Seattle pro tour and finished with a positive record, 10 wins and six losses.

If he competes well at the end of October, his gameplay will stream on . A link to the official World Championship viewers guide is also available .  

Magic: The competitive multiverse 

One of the most popular worldwide competitive card games, Magic: The Gathering is a multiverse of strategy and lore where wizards duel. To cast spells, each player draws mana 鈥� the game鈥檚 source of magical power 鈥� from five different lands: plains, islands, swamps, mountains and forests. Spells aren鈥檛 the only way to win. Creature cards attack opposing players, and enchantment and artifact cards offer a variety of tools that help competitors win the game.

鈥淟iving End,鈥� one of Lamson鈥檚 favorite cards, is a sorcery that swaps all creature cards in play (on the battlefield) with ones that have been knocked out of the game (in the graveyard). When he knows he鈥檒l be playing it, he tries to allow his opponent to answer initial threats before burying them in the late game.

Lamson regularly plays against Shane Smith, assistant director of Residence Life at 91福利 and advisor of the on-campus student organization for Magic. The organization meets twice a week 鈥� Mondays from 5-9 p.m. in the Lown room, 208, in the 91福利 Memorial Union, and Fridays 2-9 p.m. in the FFA room, 231, in the union. Smith said gatherings are casual and students can join multiplayer games, play one on one or just hang out and watch, trade cards and work on their decks.

Smith and Lamson first met at Game Citadel鈥檚 Bangor store, where Magic hobbyists play every Friday. It鈥檚 one of the places where Lamson learned from decades of knowledge and technique to help him compete against the best players in the world.

鈥淚 never thought that I would be looked up to by my friends who have played this game for decades,鈥� Lamson said. 鈥淚 never thought I would represent Maine on that kind of stage.鈥� 

He plans to represent his community by wearing a hoodie with the Game Citadel logo during the World Championship. 

Magic: The community

Lamson鈥檚 dad, Daniel Lamson, first introduced him to the game when he was ten years old. They were looking for a new game to play and his dad found an old stack of Magic cards in the closet. The stack was tattered and held together with a rubber band 鈥� a stark contrast compared to the pristine condition of Lamson鈥檚 plastic-encased collection. 

鈥淲e didn’t really know what we were doing,鈥� Lamson said. 鈥淏ut my dad printed out a rulebook he found online, and we just bumbled our way through it.鈥�

Daniel said since he was little, Lamson would fixate on TV shows, games or fictional characters. It started with Thomas the Tank Engine, then chess for a few summers as he got older. Daniel said chess camp was the first step toward Lamson鈥檚 fascination with Magic 鈥� the kids brought Pok茅mon cards to camp and traded them. After Lamson spent a few years playing Pok茅mon, he moved onto Magic. 

As a teenager, Lamson started competing and has since spent a considerable amount on cards. The cards Lamson hasn鈥檛 bought with his own money were gifted or lended to him. 

鈥淭he same family that for years bought Thomas the Tank Engine toys, when he switched to Magic, bought him Magic cards every Christmas and every birthday,鈥� Daniel said.

Lamson is also backed by a supportive local group, including his boyfriend, Michel Kaler, who practices competitive gameplay with him and offers depths of insight. Kaler even lent Lamson the deck he used to place second at the regional championship in Denver. Zachary Mohoney, owner of Mahoney鈥檚 Gaming Emporium in Machias, is lending him the deck he鈥檒l be using in Las Vegas. And Jacob Dawson, a close friend, traveled with him to Denver and is going with him to Las Vegas.

In order to continue receiving invitations to tournaments with cash prizes, Lamson has to place in top spots. Passionate about reading and writing, he hopes to be able to incorporate the game into his future career in one way or another, whether that鈥檚 writing about Magic tournaments and people who play in them or writing fiction inspired by the lore.

鈥淚t’s like a never ending book,鈥� Lamson said. 鈥淚t’s like a never ending fantasy novel that I just can’t put down.鈥�

For more information about the Magic student organization, join 91福利 MTG Club on the mobile app Campus Groups or email Smith at shane.p.smith@maine.edu.

Contact: Ashley Yates, ashley.yates@maine.edu 

When Fisher arrived at 91福利 as a first-year from Connecticut, he joined the men鈥檚 cross country team, building strong friendships with many of his teammates and easing his transition to college. More recently, these friends have become a real asset for Fisher鈥檚 food science job 鈥� as willing tasters of new food products in the endlessly iterative testing process.

鈥淔isher is a unique hire for us because he didn鈥檛 come from the food science program,鈥� said Rob Dumas, food science innovation coordinator and facility manager for the School of Food and Agriculture. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a good reminder for me that food speaks to people across all different disciplines. Not only that, but lessons learned in the plant around soft skills like confidence and attention to detail can be transferred to many career paths.鈥�

Fisher started his college career with an initial plan to major in computer science or kinesiology, but his passion for food and cooking stoked his interest in a job at the food pilot plant and soon convinced him to pursue a bachelor鈥檚 degree in food science and nutrition.

Fisher admits he really didn鈥檛 know what to expect when he began working at the plant. He鈥檇 always loved cooking and had some experience working in restaurant kitchens. He had a passion for nutrition, but none of that prepared him for a job that focused much more on food science and the business of bringing a new product to market. 

鈥淭he projects taken on by the staff at the plant were real eye openers for me,鈥� said Fisher. 鈥淚 have a much better understanding now about how some of Maine鈥檚 small businesses take an idea and turn it into a product. I鈥檝e learned a lot about what clients need and what factors go into decision-making.鈥�

One of the first projects Fisher worked on was for Skowhegan-based Maine Grains, a company that grinds Maine-grown grains into flour and other products. The company was looking for a high value product that could be made from midlings, a low value byproduct from the milling process, and contracted with 91福利 to help them develop and test ideas. 

Fisher helped the team develop dry mixes like cookies, pancakes, muffins and quick breads that could be made with the midlings. He weighed out ingredients and made changes based on how the product tasted, looked and smelled 鈥� relying on his house mates for useful feedback.

鈥淭his hands-on work reinforces what Fisher is learning in other classes, like how to use a sensory approach to evaluate a product or how to think critically about the impact changing one ingredient might have,鈥� said Dumas.

For another project, Fisher worked with Boothbay-based Mumbai to Maine LLC, a home-based business that makes Indian chutneys, to achieve the right pH level and make it shelf stable. The owner provided base recipes and Fisher made adjustments to the ingredients, cooking time and temperature, working on perfecting the consistency as well as the pH level.

Fisher also collaborated with 91福利 Extension鈥檚 Food Testing Services lab for the chutneys. Food science specialist Beth Calder, who works just upstairs of the Pilot Plant, showed Fisher how to use a pH meter and provided definitive direction on specific requirements for products to achieve shelf stability.

鈥淚 wish more people knew how much goes into bringing a new product to market,鈥� said Fisher. 鈥淔or some of these projects, we鈥檝e gone through more than 60 iterations before we get a flavor or texture just right.鈥�

This kind of research and development is expensive and often out of reach for small businesses just starting out. Through industry partnerships, 91福利 has increasingly been able to offer these services in a cost-effective way. For example, Wyman鈥檚, a Maine-based wild blueberry company, has provided an annual foundation gift to allow students like Fisher the opportunity to work in the food pilot plant. Over the last year, with funding from the Maine Solutions Hub, a program of the Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan (MJRP), 91福利 has been able to cover up to $16,000 per project. MJRP is Gov. Janet Mills鈥� plan, approved by the 130th Maine Legislature, for investing the state鈥檚 share of COVID-19 pandemic relief funds provided by Congress. 91福利 System secured $35M of these funds specifically for workforce development and innovation.

It鈥檚 a very successful collaboration, in which small businesses and other industry stakeholders can receive much-needed research and development support and 91福利 students get real-world experience to complement their classroom learning.

For Fisher, there鈥檚 no doubt it鈥檚 been a meaningful experience. When asked if there is anyone in particular who made a difference in his time at 91福利, he answered 鈥淭he entire nutrition program and all of the people in it, especially Rob and Eileen (Molloy), by sharing their own enthusiasm and how much they love this work. 91福利 has changed me a lot. I鈥檓 a completely different person today than when I arrived as a freshman.鈥�

Contact: Melissa Arndt, melissa.arndt@maine.edu 

鈥淵ou hear negative misconceptions and preconceived notions about what working in retail is like,鈥� Guzman said. 鈥淪till, you must live through the experience firsthand to understand how expansive and lucrative of a career it truly is.鈥�

Guzman discovered the ETL internship opportunity at the Maine Business School’s Jumpstart Your Career event, one of many opportunities for University of Maine students to explore internships and careers.

As he navigated the demands of his role, Guzman gained valuable insight into his strengths and weaknesses as a leader, developing a greater understanding of his management style. With the guidance of an ELT mentor who provided valuable feedback and constructive criticism, Guzman learned how to support his team while setting expectations and holding team members accountable.

“This experience has made me a resilient leader, a more aware leader of my strengths and weaknesses, setting the foundation for what steps I have to take to move forward in my career,” he said. 

Read more about Guzman’s successes and challenges, and the valuable lessons he learned from his internship, on the Maine Business School website.

Contact: Melanie Brooks, melanie.brooks@maine.edu

Griffith is majoring in economics with a minor in mathematics and international studies. She is primarily interested in understanding rural economics through mathematics and data science. Griffith has been able to explore her interest through her coursework at 91福利, and through the various research positions she has held with Kathleen Bell, professor of resource economics and policy, and Andrew Crawley, associate professor of regional economic development.

鈥淜nowing Ruth, she will definitely make the most of her experiences abroad,鈥� Bell said. 鈥淩uth brings wisdom, passion, courage, integrity, creativity and openness to every experience. More broadly, Ruth’s willingness to engage mindfully with different cultures, places and ideas combined with her commitment to public service establish her as an excellent George J. Mitchell Peace Scholar.鈥�

Previously, Griffith has been named a and . She said that before this scholarship, the only international destination she has visited is Quebec, and 鈥渢hat鈥檚 closer to [her] house than Boston.鈥�

鈥淚鈥檓 very excited about immersing myself in a new educational environment, gaining a new perspective on economics and experiencing a new culture,鈥� Griffith said. 鈥淭he George Mitchell Peace Scholarship is a way for me to do that 鈥� in a financially feasible way, of course.鈥�

Griffith鈥檚 application was sponsored by Melissa Ladenheim, associate dean of the Honors College. Ladenheim also serves as the adviser for the 91福利 Fiber Arts Club, where Griffith is the Vice President, and organizes the annual Maine Day Meal Packout, where Griffith holds the position of Fundraising Chair. 

鈥淩uth is an outstanding choice for the Mitchell Peace scholarship,鈥� Ladenheim said. 鈥淗er academic achievements, strength of character and history of community engagement have positioned her to take full advantage of all this experience will offer her, both in and outside of the classroom. In the tradition of Sen. Mitchell, Ruth is committed to living out her core value of providing service to others in all that she does. She will be an excellent ambassador for 91福利.鈥�

Jakob Streipel, assistant professor of mathematics, also sponsored Griffith. 

鈥淩uth is a wonderful student in ways above and beyond her excellent grades. She is compassionate, helps her fellow students eagerly with things she has a good handle on and gracefully receives help in the reverse situation. Living abroad, let alone studying there, is a wonderful and enriching experience that I expect will only further these qualities of hers,鈥� Streipel said. 

Griffith will attend UCC in spring 2025 after she defends her economics thesis in the fall, which focuses on regional economic volatility in Maine and the policies that can help mitigate its impacts. She said that she is most excited about learning about different economic systems in Ireland, and she hopes to take a course on Irish labor economics.

鈥淭here鈥檚 so much value in the diversity of thought,鈥� Griffith said. 鈥淚鈥檒l also have the opportunity to engage with the local community and see what they鈥檙e doing differently there. So much in terms of microeconomic practice could be different so it will allow me to explore that entirely new landscape.鈥�

She also hopes to get involved with UCC鈥檚 Women in Business club and adventure outings club, as well as local volunteer opportunities.

The George Mitchell Peace Scholarship began in honor of Sen. George J. Mitchell鈥檚 work brokering a peace deal in Northern Ireland in 1998; the inaugural class of the scholarship exchange was in the 1999-2000 academic school year. 

Griffith didn鈥檛 piece together that she would be the scholar sent during the 25th anniversary of the scholarship until after she was awarded it, but admits to being a fan of Sen. Mitchell鈥檚 writings even before she won the scholarship. 

鈥淚n one of his books 鈥� it鈥檚 called 鈥楾he Negotiator鈥� 鈥� in multiple points in the text, he goes back to his core values and his parents鈥� core values and I really appreciate how committed he is to those values in all facets big and small. I have read a few of his other books as well, and I think his story is really amazing,鈥� Griffith said.

In the following Q&A, Griffith discusses what motivated her to study abroad, the researcher and extracurricular activities that helped her earn this prestigious scholarship, and what she cherishes the most about her 91福利 experience so far. 

What motivated you to study abroad? 

I鈥檓 motivated to study abroad because I believe that immersing myself in a new educational environment will not only broaden my academic horizons, but also provide me with a fresh perspective on economics and culture. I鈥檓 confident that the lessons I鈥檒l gain from this experience will be invaluable, shaping both my personal and professional growth. 

How do you feel about earning the Peace Scholarship?

Earning the [Mitchell] Peace Scholarship feels surreal and incredibly validating. The scholarship recognizes a student who demonstrates excellence in scholarship, leadership and service 鈥� qualities I strive to embody. It’s deeply meaningful to know that the scholarship committee, my recommenders and my network believe I fit that description. 

Why did you choose to come to 91福利?

I chose to come to 91福利 because it offers a wealth of opportunities for both personal and academic growth. The university’s strong emphasis on undergraduate research, community service and leadership development was exactly what I was looking for in a college experience.

Describe any research, internships or scholarly pursuits in which you have participated. 

I have had the opportunity to engage in research with Dr. Kathleen Bell and Dr. Andrew Crawley. Under Dr. Bell, I鈥檝e studied community resilience at the municipal level, exploring how local communities adapt to and recover from challenges. With Dr. Crawley, I鈥檝e researched the economic impact of the biannual time change and examined how economic resilience is measured in published academic research. 

I am also currently writing my honors thesis. My thesis adviser is Dr. Crawley and my committee members are Dr. Bell and Dr. (Adam) Daigneault. My thesis aims to uncover regional economic volatility throughout Maine. 

What extracurricular activities occupy your time at 91福利?

I鈥檓 very involved on campus at 91福利! I serve as the secretary for the Honors College Student Activities Board, where we work to support the Honors College community and various service projects, including the Maine Day Meal Packout, which last year donated over 47,000 meals to food pantries across the state. I鈥檓 also the vice president of the Fiber Arts Club, the sector head for international investments for the 91福利 Student Portfolio Investment Fund (SPIFFY), and I previously served as the president of the 91福利 Women in Economics Club. Additionally, I dedicate time to off-campus volunteer work.

Have you worked closely with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at 91福利 better? 

Yes! Dr. Ladenheim has been an incredibly supportive mentor, consistently encouraging me to align my actions with my values and to consider different perspectives. Dr. Bell has also been an invaluable mentor, teaching me that mentor relationships are two-sided. She emphasizes that while I learn from her, she is also learning from me, which has made her mentorship especially meaningful. I have also had many other valuable mentors, including Dr. Crawley and my professors. 

Describe 91福利 in one word, and explain.

Opportunity. At 91福利, students have the chance to explore their interests and pursue what excites them most. I deeply appreciate the flexibility and abundance of opportunities the university provides for both personal and academic growth.

Story by Sam Schipani. 

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

Lamb鈥檚 journey to becoming a researcher and energy justice advocate for Maine鈥檚 Wabanaki Nations took a few twists and turns before she finally landed in her Ph.D. program. When Lamb started as an undergraduate student at 91福利, she focused her efforts on studying communication sciences and disorders with the goal of providing culturally-appropriate speech and language services to Wabanaki youth. She also minored in Native American studies.听听

Even though she enjoyed her speech pathology coursework, Lamb always had another passion in the back of her mind: fighting for solutions to climate change. Lamb said when she was a kid, she was a 鈥渃limate change nerd,鈥� and was active in her elementary school鈥檚 鈥淕reen Team,鈥� which took creative 鈥� often, perhaps, ambitious 鈥� approaches to addressing the issue of climate change in her community.

鈥淲e had all sorts of crazy projects that we wanted to do that we obviously never found funding for because we were children,鈥� she said with a laugh. 鈥淟ike, we wanted to put a garden on the roof of the school. That never happened.鈥�

It was her latent passion that, as an undergraduate, drew her to classes like Native Americans and Climate Change taught by Darren Ranco, professor of anthropology, chair of Native American Programs and faculty fellow at the Senator George J. Mitchell Center for Sustainability Solutions. Lamb said that course 鈥減lanted a seed鈥� that she needed to do something to address the environmental injustices faced by Indigenous communities.

That seed began to sprout when as a junior, Lamb came across a listing for an undergraduate research assistantship with Sharon Klein, associate professor in the School of Economics. The position was for a project led by Penobscot Nation citizen Shantel Neptune to weatherize homes with window inserts made in collaboration with the nonprofit organization . The research assistant would help build these window inserts, which are removable frames wrapped on each side with tightly-sealed, clear film that creates an insulating airspace to prevent heat loss in the winter, and finished around the edges with a compressible foam gasket that provides a tight seal while allowing the inserts to slide in and out of place for seasonal changes. The position also involved surveying tribal citizens about their opinions and preferences about alternative energy.听

鈥淚 was working at Walgreens at the time as a cashier and emailed Dr. Klein saying, 鈥業 am interested, but I do not think I would have enough time to do both jobs,鈥欌�� Lamb said.听

After attending the job interview and learning more about the opportunity, she immediately gave her two weeks鈥� notice at Walgreens.

Klein said that she was instantly drawn to Lamb鈥檚 enthusiasm and lived experience. When she started working with Lamb, she knew she had made the right call.听

鈥淪he is one of those people who sees what needs to be done, does it right away and does it exceptionally the first time,鈥� Klein said. 鈥淪he sees things before you do and she takes care of them. I watched her interest in energy, energy justice and her own people grow and the connections she made between the new work and her experiences as an Indigenous woman.鈥�

Lamb spent a lot of her junior and senior years traveling to the homes of Penobscot Nation citizens, assisting Klein and Neptune in measuring windows, entering data and surveying tribal citizens about their experiences with energy and the change they hoped to see in their communities.听

Lamb also conducted a thorough literature review of community energy and energy justice in Indigenous communities, and used that to design a related project that expanded upon the work of her research assistantship. She focused on the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point, conducting surveys and interviews with tribal members about their experiences with energy and climate injustice, the energy-related problems experienced in their homes, and their preferences and opinions on alternative energy options for both individuals and the tribe.

Over the course of the project, Lamb fell in love with how community energy justice empowers citizens to take action to address the problems that impact them.

鈥淚 learned more about energy, and I realized that it is connected to every part of our lives,鈥� Lamb said.

After graduating, she continued to pursue a master鈥檚 degree in communication sciences and disorders, thinking pursuing speech pathology as a career was a practical choice due to the high demand and relatively high pay. Still, she kept working with Klein as a service provider assistant for the , where she assisted with enrolling four of the five Wabanaki Tribal Nations into the program, including the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point. After enrolling her own tribe, Lamb established the Sipayik Resilience Committee in 2022 to establish a structure for tribal members to work on actions that would result in increased access to renewable energy and energy efficiency technology, and increase the tribes鈥� climate change resilience through citizen science. She helped facilitate a community resilience meeting, where tribal members prioritized actions from a list of 72 actionable items regarding resilience provided by the state.

鈥淓lectric bills in Pleasant Point are incredibly high; lowered electric bills were the most pressing need in the community. How can we use this information to inform action to address these needs?鈥� Lamb said. 鈥淭he top priorities were increasing access to weatherization, renewable energy and heat pumps. Those three priorities have basically ruled my life ever since.鈥�

The more time and passion she devoted to the project, the clearer it became to Lamb that she needed to make a big change.听

After a year, Lamb left her masters program and enrolled in her Ph.D. program in the Ecology and Environmental Sciences Program with Klein as her advisor. Klein was thrilled to have her back on board.

鈥淪he also has a passion for justice for Wabanaki people that I have seen grow throughout the years we have been working together. She brings that passion into her research, which helps keep her motivated during particularly difficult or tedious tasks. She is very committed to preserving data sovereignty for Indigenous people. She is also incredibly brave, taking on projects, exploring ideas and speaking out when it is needed, when others might feel too nervous or unsure. All of these qualities make her a strong community-engaged social scientist and community leader,鈥� Klein said.

Lamb just completed the first year of her Ph.D. program, and is currently working on a grant from the to advance sustainable energy adoption in low-income communities. Her dissertation research focuses on how the tribal citizen committee at the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point can build their capacity to advance energy and climate justice.

As if that weren鈥檛 enough, she has a dual role as a researcher and representative on the Wabanaki Sustainable Energy Team, where representatives from each Tribal government collaborate on sustainable energy projects. Lamb also continues to work with the Sipayik Resilience Committee with co-director Genevieve Doughty, and many other tribal citizens who are dedicated to making a difference within the community. She is especially proud of a program they have implemented for free energy audits for tribal members, with funding in place to implement weatherization actions.

In 2023, Lamb was awarded a Mitchell Center Sustainability Award for outstanding contribution of a student to sustainability research. She was also honored at the 57th Annual Passamaquoddy Days, and was most recently named a for her work with the Sipayik Resilience Committee.

Lamb said that now, going into the second year of her Ph.D. program, she often thinks about the little kid that tried to get a garden on the roof of her elementary school.

鈥淚t鈥檚 funny to see that come full circle and now I’m looking for grants for similar kinds of things,鈥� Lamb said. 鈥淓nergy is a weird niche that I never thought of before. It would be really cool for students from multiple different disciplines, especially Wabanaki students, to know that they can engage in community energy or energy in general as a career path.鈥澨�

Contact: Ruth Hallsworth, hallsworth@maine.edu

Jamie Fogg, a rising junior marine science major with a concentration in marine biology and Maine Top Scholar, was awarded the prestigious National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship in the last application cycle. Fogg is one of only two students in Maine and 130 nationwide to receive this honor.

“I am passionate about environmental protection and research,” said Fogg. “My goal is to produce tangible research that will influence policy in local communities. I also want to help increase accessibility to ecological education.”

As a NOAA Hollings Scholar, Fogg will receive $9,500 each year for the next two academic years, a paid internship and funding to attend professional conferences. She will also have the opportunity to work with NOAA, where she is excited to connect with talented and accomplished minds in the field and gain valuable experience.

This summer, Fogg attended the Hollings Orientation, where she connected with her fellow scholarship recipients and with senior NOAA managers and staff. The experience not only fostered meaningful relationships, but also expanded her understanding of NOAA’s diverse scope of work through their six line offices: the National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service, the National Marine Fisheries Service, the National Ocean Service, the National Weather Service, the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research and the Office of Marine and Aviation Operations.

When applying for the scholarship, Fogg says she gathered strong references from professors and Ph.D. students with whom she had built meaningful professional connections. Over the past two years, she worked with Kristina Cammen, associate professor of marine mammal science, which drastically influenced her academic interests. She also found guidance through the University of Maine’s Office of Major Scholarships (OMS), which supported her throughout the application process.听

“The Office of Major Scholarships and Nives Dal Bo-Wheeler were so helpful throughout my application process,” she said. “They met with me to go over my application and offered review sessions before I submitted my application. OMS is an amazing resource at 91福利, I highly recommend them to anyone planning to apply for any merit scholarship in the future.”听

Throughout the summer, Fogg worked as a research assistant in collaboration with Allied Whale, where she has contributed to a 50-year research effort to identify and input sighting data on humpback whales in the ; and Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company, where she collected behavioral and distributional data on whale sightings and photographed them for photo identification. In summer 2025, she’ll complete her NOAA Hollings Internship, which could take her anywhere in the U.S.

The application cycle for the NOAA Hollings Scholarship opens on Sept. 1, 2025, and the national deadline is Jan. 31, 2025. 91福利 students who are interested in applying should meet with Dal Bo-Wheeler, director of the Office of Major Scholarships, at nives.dalbowheeler@maine.edu.

Learn more about 91福利鈥檚 Office of Major Scholarships at .

Contact: Samantha Perry, samantha.perry@maine.edu

By visiting homeowners to discuss how the company could help them address the problems they have with their windows and doors, Ronco, of Dover-Foxcroft, Maine, fostered connections, generated leads and set up appointments between prospective clients and design consultants who could dive deeper into their issues, he said. The work provided Ronco valuable knowledge and experience.听

鈥淭here is never the same scenario; you never know how the homeowner will react or what questions they will ask,鈥� Ronco said.听听听

Ronco also shadowed employees with the company鈥檚 marketing department and business-to-business team, gathered leads by attending events, met with sponsors and created social media content.听

鈥淭his position allows me to understand the ground level, grassroots elements of marketing,鈥� Ronco said. 鈥淲ith most marketing becoming digital or paper, I wanted to ensure I developed experience with face-to-face marketing before diving deeper into other ways of marketing. This experience will help me be more mindful when I get further into my career, with the understanding that not everyone uses technology and that, for some, talking to a knowledgeable person is more accessible.鈥�

Read the full story about Ronco鈥檚 internship experience on the Maine Business School website.听

Contact: Melanie Brooks, melanie.brooks@maine.edu听