UMFK News Releases

The University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) Board of Visitors will host its next Business Breakfast Series on Friday, Oct. 3, 2025, featuring a presentation on the St. John Valley Senior College. The event will begin at 7:30 a.m. in the Nadeau Hall conference room on the UMFK campus.

The featured presenters, Don Raymond and Don Murray, both members of the St. John Valley Senior College Board, will discuss “Learning, Socialization, Friends, and Fun for Seniors.”

The St. John Valley Senior College was founded in 2008 as a collaboration between UMFK, Maine School Administrative District #27, and the Fort Kent Senior Club. The program offers classes, field trips, and other opportunities to senior citizens throughout the Valley, ranging from learning how to navigate a smartphone to line dancing. Senior College is considered the “perfect” school – with no tests, no homework, and no grades.

The fall 2025 session of the Senior College runs from Sept. 9 through Dec. 2.

Tickets for breakfast are $15 per person and can be purchased online through the Business Breakfast webpage.

The registration deadline is Sept. 24.

For more information, contact Lisa Roy at 207-834-7504 or roylisa@maine.edu.

Calling all Bengals! The University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) Alumni Association is thrilled to announce the inaugural “UMFK Alumni Day,” set for Sunday, Sept. 7, at Hadlock Field in Portland, Maine. This exciting event, held in partnership with the Portland Sea Dogs, promises an unforgettable day filled with camaraderie, community spirit, and baseball action!

Join fellow alumni, friends, and family from across Maine as we gather to cheer on the Sea Dogs and proudly showcase our Bengal pride. Whether you’re from the Fort Kent area, Central Maine, or the greater Portland region, this special day provides the perfect opportunity to reconnect, make new memories, and celebrate UMFK.

For your convenience, UMFK has arranged a comfortable, bathroom-equipped Cyr Bus Line charter bus departing from the UMFK campus at 5 a.m., returning immediately after the game concludes. A second pickup location will be available in Bangor to accommodate our Central Maine alumni. Seats are limited to 55, so reserve early to secure your spot!

“We’re thrilled to offer this unique opportunity to unite our UMFK community from all parts of Maine,” said UMFK Executive Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations Michael Elliott. “What better way to reconnect and share your Bengal pride than enjoying a Sea Dogs baseball game together?”

Two exciting ticket options are available. The Bus & Game Day Package, priced at $100 per person, includes round-trip bus transportation, game admission, exclusive reserved UMFK seating, a two-hour ballpark buffet, and a limited-edition UMFK baseball cap. For alumni and friends living near the Portland area, the Game Day Ticket Only option is available for $40 per person and includes game admission, reserved UMFK seating, a two-hour ballpark buffet, and a limited-edition UMFK baseball cap.

Only 100 tickets are available, so act fast to secure your participation in this landmark event!

Attendees are encouraged to wear their green and gold UMFK gear to amplify Bengal spirit and capture memorable moments.

Reserve your tickets now by visiting the UMFK Alumni Day at the Portland Sea Dogs webpage.

Ticket sales end on August 31.

For additional information or inquiries, please contact Michael Elliott at michael.elliott@maine.edu or 207-834-7800.

Don’t miss out—let’s make this first-ever UMFK Alumni Day a roaring success!

The U.S. Department of Education has awarded the University of Maine at Fort Kent a federal TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) grant to improve college retention and graduation rates among low-income, first-generation students, and students with disabilities. The five-year grant provides support to the university with $356,773 annually, totaling nearly $1.8 million over the life of the award.

Since 1994, the program has served approximately 165 students a year at UMFK. Through individualized services including academic tutoring, financial aid, scholarship guidance, career exploration, personal and academic counseling, and mentoring, TRIO SSS empowers students to overcome barriers to success. This comprehensive support makes it significantly more likely that students will complete their degree or successfully transfer, with the lowest possible debt.

“The TRIO SSS program at UMFK is so much more than academic support—it’s a personalized, student-centered program that empowers success through tutoring, resources, advocacy, and engaging experiences that help students thrive in and out of the classroom,” said UMFK Director of TRIO Student Support Services Susan Dubay.

Some of the unique services offered by the UMFK TRIO SSS program include time management and financial literacy escape rooms; “Clue into TRIO” — a life-sized Clue game centered on connection and support; a residence hall tutor; FAFSA completion seminars in collaboration with the Finance Authority of Maine, and more.

“This grant allows the University of Maine at Fort Kent to deepen our commitment to ensuring that all students—regardless of background—can thrive academically and personally,” said UMFK President Deb Hedeen. “Student Support Services provides the necessary educational tools for students to succeed and lead with confidence.”

Nationally, the SSS program has a proven track record. According to a rigorous 2019 evaluation by the U.S. Department of Education, students in SSS at two-year institutions were 48% more likely to earn an associate’s degree or transfer to a four-year school, and students at four-year institutions were 18% more likely to earn a bachelor’s degree compared to similar peers not in the program.

“TRIO programs generally and TRIO SSS, in particular, transforms students from the least resourced backgrounds into college graduates,” said Kimberly Jones, president of the Council for Opportunity in Education in Washington, D.C. “This vital program makes all the difference for nearly a million students each year across the country.

SSS is one of eight federal TRIO programs funded under the Higher Education Act of 1965 to remove social, academic, and cultural barriers to higher education. Since its inception in 1968, SSS has helped millions of low-income, first-generation students graduate from college and contribute to their communities and the economy.

For more information about TRIO Student Support Services at the University of Maine at Fort Kent, visit the Student Success Center webpage.

UMFK is proud to announce a special recognition of the profound and culturally rich symphonic compositions of Professor Scott Brickman, Ph.D. His body of work, particularly his five symphonies composed between 2006 and 2020, offers a compelling musical journey deeply rooted in his Baltic and Slavic ethnic background.

The University of Maine System Chancellor, Dannel Malloy, appointed Dr. Brickman to the Trustee Professorship for the 2024-2025 academic year.

The award supported him through the process of recording, editing, and public release of four of his original symphonies, bringing his body of work up to thirteen commercial projects. In addition to contributing to the arts profile of the University of Maine at Fort Kent and Maine’s creative arts economy, this project will increase the visibility of the arts in Northern Maine.

“I’m extremely grateful to be working for the University of Maine System, where such wonderful opportunities are available. Additionally, my heartfelt thanks to UMFK’s President Deb Hedeen for all of the support she has given me, not only with the trustee professorship, but also with her advocacy and interest for and in the visual and performing arts on our campus.”

Professor Brickman’s symphonies showcase his unique artistic voice by blending diverse stylistic influences. He moves seamlessly from loud, percussive sections to quieter, relaxing, tonal, and atonal soundscapes. This distinctive approach has earned his work international acclaim, with world-class orchestras performing each symphony:

• Symphony No. 5 (2019): A three-movement work influenced by Latvian culture and history, featuring lively, dramatic, and energetic sections.
• Symphony No. 1 (2006): A four-movement piece demonstrating Brickman’s mastery of neoclassical 12-tone rows, described as a “story of a struggle.”
• Symphony No. 4 “Restoration” (2018): A single-movement symphony inspired by the centenary of independence for the Baltic states, incorporating the spirit of their folk songs.
• Symphony No. 6 Sinfonia for Wind Ensemble (2020): A deeply personal work composed after chemotherapy, known for its diverse instrumental textures and solemnity.

“Dr. Brickman’s contributions to contemporary classical music are a source of deep pride for the University of Maine at Fort Kent,” said UMFK President Deb Hedeen. “His ability to blend personal heritage with compelling musical expression provides a meaningful model for students, showing how individual identity can inspire creative excellence. We are proud to support his accomplishments and grateful for the artistic expression he brings to our campus.”

Professor Scott Brickman is a talented composer whose music shows his strong connection to his Latvian heritage. He skillfully blends different musical styles with deep cultural stories, which benefits both UMFK, where he has taught since 1997, and the wider world of modern classical music.

About the University of Maine at Fort Kent: Located on the northernmost border of Maine, the University of Maine at Fort Kent is a career‐focused campus offering relevant, experiential academic programs and services with personalized attention. UMFK’s diverse student population enjoys the opportunity to live and learn in a beautiful, natural setting and a caring, friendly atmosphere where they thrive as engaged members of the community.

The University of Maine at Fort Kent is proud to announce the Dean’s List for the spring 2025 semester. This list includes full-time and part-time students.

“Congratulations to the students who have earned a place on the UMFK Dean’s and Academic Recognition Lists,” said UMFK President Deb Hedeen. “The Dean’s List honors our full-time students, while the Academic Recognition List acknowledges the achievements of our part-time students. Their dedication and hard work are truly commendable. We are incredibly proud to celebrate their accomplishments and to have these talented individuals as part of the UMFK community.”

The University of Maine at Fort Kent is the northernmost campus of the University of Maine System. It is the academic center for Acadian and Franco-American culture for the greater Fort Kent area and beyond. In addition, the diverse campus offers students a close-knit community experience with an international perspective.

UMFK offers multiple degree paths that lead to associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. For a complete program listing and more information, please visit the UMFK website.

On Friday, May 9, 2025, at the University of Maine at Fort Kent, 136 nursing students graduated from the program. Twenty-five participated in the 40th annual UMFK Nurse Pinning Ceremony at the Sports Center on the UMFK campus.

The following BSN students received their nursing pins: Hannah M. Albert (Madawaska); Livia G. Bouchard (St. Agatha); Harmony F. Castonguay (Livermore Falls, ME); Tania Cook (Parkeburg, PA); Hannah Crocker (Stetson, ME); Leslie A. Curtis (Caribou, ME); Emma N. Deprey (Fort Kent); Shellie M. Dill (Lincoln, ME); Pearl Ejiogu-Njoku (Fort Kent); Erna Fosung (Lynn, MA); Britania V. Francis (Charlestown, St. Ann, Jamaica); Emily M. Gendreau (Madawaska); Caitlyn B. Green (Fort Kent); Cady E. Hebert (Fort Kent); Marjorie E. Johnson (Brunswick, ME); Amy N. Katende (Sidney, ME); Kathy B. Martin (Fort Kent); Nancy Martin (Fort Kent); Allee R. Morgan (St. Francis); Darci R. Pelletier (Fort Kent); Raegan Perfitt (Houlton, ME); Makayla E. Quimby (Eddington, ME); Elly R. Sirois (Fort Kent); JoMari L. Smith (Fort Wayne, IN); and Kevonnie Smith (Portland, Jamaica).

Faculty, staff, and students, along with family members and friends of the graduates, gathered to honor the recipients of the Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. University President Deb Hedeen welcomed attendees and extended congratulations to the students.

The theme for this year’s pinning ceremony was “The Power of Nurses.”

“The nursing pin you receive today represents far more than the time you spent in classrooms, labs, and clinical settings. It signifies your transformation into a trusted guardian of health, an advocate for the vulnerable, and a professional prepared to serve with knowledge, skill, professionalism, and empathy. It connects you to the long legacy of nurses who came before you, and to those whose lives you will touch,” said Dean of Nursing Dr. Erin C. Soucy.

The guest speaker for the pinning ceremony was UMFK Professor of Nursing, Dr. Tanya Sleeper, Ph.D., JD, MSN, MSB, GNP-BC, CHC.

Dr. Sleeper said, “The American Association of Colleges of Nursing estimates that there are nearly 5.2 million registered nurses nationwide. Moreover, as we reflect upon the power of the profession, this afternoon, we focus our attention on the power every nurse possesses to shape and influence care at the bedside and beyond.”

“As graduate nurses, you are in a unique position to leverage your knowledge to advance quality of care and bring forth the latest in evidence-based nursing practice to the workplace,” adds Dr. Sleeper.

In conclusion, Dr. Sleeper offered some important strategies to the nurse graduates: always be willing and open to learning; identify opportunities to get involved in committee and community work; identify issues you are passionate about and take action. Finding an issue you are passionate about lends significantly to our advocacy role in nursing, and further, inform and inspire others.

To begin the ceremony, UMFK Assistant Professor of Nursing, Dr. Maisie Plourde, DNP, MSN, RN, thanked the following institutions for supporting the graduates during their clinical courses, as well as offering them a setting in which to complete their preceptorships. In Maine: Cary Medical Center; Dorothea Dix Psychiatric Center; Forest Hill Long Term, Rehabilitation, and Skilled Nursing Center; Houlton Regional Hospital; Maine Health Mid Coast Hospital; Maine Health Stephens Hospital; Maine Medical Center; Northern Light Acadia Hospital; Northern Light A.R. Gould Hospital; Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center; and Northern Maine Medical Center. Out-of-state preceptorships occurred at: Elliot Hospital (New Hampshire); Olathe Medical Center (Kansas); Parkview Regional Medical Center (Indiana); Portsmouth Regional Hospital (New Hampshire); and Spartanburg Medical Center (South Carolina).

Since the UMFK Nursing Division relies so heavily on the hospitals in the region, NMMC, Cary Medical Center, and Northern Light AR Gould Hospital were presented with a plaque, which will be displayed on the wall of their institution. Plourde also asked the audience for a round of applause for the many professional nurses who committed themselves to being preceptors for the UMFK senior students and helping them become the best nurses they can be and making a difference in the students’ lives.

During the ceremony, Hannah Albert and Nancy Martin were both honored with the Student Nurse Citizenship Award. This award honors the diligence, manners, responsibility, conscientiousness, and thoughtful involvement characteristic of an exemplary citizen. This award also recognizes a student who not only excels academically but also demonstrates outstanding achievements in the campus community and exceptional leadership skills.

UMFK Nursing Resource Manager and Principal Lecturer Larry Nadeau said, “Hannah Albert is a polite, professional, and intelligent person dedicated to the highest standards of patient care. She continually ensures patients receive quality care with an emphasis on safety. Hannah was the president of the Student Nursing Organization during her junior and senior years. Under her leadership, she led fellow students to the National Student Nurse Association convention in Orlando, Florida. Creative, passionate, and innovative, she will leave a lasting impression on our Student Nursing Organization and our campus. Hanna will influence positive patient outcomes, inspire others to do their best work, and come up with innovative solutions to the challenges in healthcare. She will truly affect healthcare in many ways. We cannot wait to see what she will accomplish next.”

UMFK Principal Lecturer of Nursing Sandy Pelletier, MSN, RN, said, “Nancy Martin not only completed a 4-year BSN degree in three years, but she has also done so by making the Dean’s list every semester and was inducted into the UMFK Nursing Honor Society. She was able to complete all of this by playing and excelling at the sport she absolutely loves, soccer.” Other awards bestowed on her were Rookie of the Year; USCAA All-Academic and All-American honors; and UMFK Ronnie Guy Award, to name a few.

Nancy Martin has also served her campus community as a UMFK student nurse representative for the nursing curriculum committee, a UMFK Bengal Mentor, and UMFK Student Nurses Organization Activities Coordinator in 2023. In 2024, she served in the UMFK student athletics committee as an athletic facility manager and, in her spare time, as an academic tutor.

The Division of Nursing also honors an alumna or alumnus during the pinning ceremony. The Outstanding Nursing Alumni Award is bestowed upon a nursing graduate of the UMFK Bachelor of Science in Nursing program who displays accomplishment in the nursing profession, as well as a commitment to his/her community through volunteer service and humanitarian efforts. Emily Worcester, of Harrington, ME, was presented the 2025 Outstanding Nurse Alumnus Award.

“It is an honor and a privilege to stand before you today to recognize someone who exemplifies the very best of what it means to be a nurse — a graduate of UMFK’s nursing program, a compassionate caregiver, and a tireless advocate for patients and families,” said Dr. Soucy.

Emily Worcester currently works at Northern Light’s Eastern Maine Medical Center. She has earned the Daisy Award twice. This award was created to celebrate extraordinary nurses whose clinical skills and compassionate care make a profound difference in the lives of their patients. It recognizes nurses who go above and beyond, often in quiet, unseen moments, bringing dignity, comfort, and hope where it is needed most. Emily is a 2013 graduate in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and earned a minor in behavioral science, and she is a proud veteran.

Additionally, the Division of Nursing annually recognizes individuals of the community who demonstrate a commitment to health care, nursing, and nursing education. This year, former Maine State Senator Troy Jackson was honored with the Community Leader Award.

Throughout his political career, Senator Jackson has become well known as a staunch advocate for workers’ rights and health care, introducing several bills on these fronts. His work in the health care arena is particularly noteworthy as he consistently sought to protect our most vulnerable, tackling the rising costs of prescription drug costs and health care costs while fighting to keep the Maine Veterans’ Homes in Caribou and Machias open. In addition, his advocacy efforts on behalf of Maine’s older adults earned him two awards as the Maine Council on Aging’s 2022 Legislator of the Year and one of Maine Health Care Association’s 2022 Legislators of the Year.

To add, Dr. Sleeper mentioned she had the opportunity to hear Senator Jackson speak on many occasions, as well as hear him testify in favor of a bill and every time she heard him speak – it is his commitment to doing what is right and just that has always resonated with her the most.

The address to the senior class was delivered by Hanna Albert.

Hanna welcomed everyone. Thanked the dedicated nursing faculty for shaping their knowledge and character, and acknowledgement of the challenges of nursing school. She expressed pride in her classmates’ accomplishments and reflected on their growth from novice students to confident nurses.

“As we transition into our professional careers as nurses, I would like to share a very important lesson that this journey has taught me – it is that to care for others is not just a job – it is a privilege that should not be taken lightly. It is a unique honor to be entrusted with the care of people and their families in their most vulnerable state,” said Hanna.

Hanna concluded with thanks for the memories and well wishes for the graduates’ future endeavors in nursing.

Closing remarks were delivered by Principal Lecturer Pelletier.

The UMFK Nursing Division faculty and staff are Dr. Erin C. Soucy, Dr. Rachel E. Albert, Kortney Collins, Rebecca Dias, Larry Nadeau, Stephanie Nadeau, Sandy Pelletier, Fran Picard, Dr. Maisie Plourde, Denise Potvin, Dr. Tanya Sleeper, Nicole Theriault, and Dr. Stacy Thibodeau.

On Thursday, May 8, six University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) nursing students were honored at the first UMFK Nurse Pinning Ceremony, held on the University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI) campus. This historic event marked the culmination of their nursing education through a unique partnership between UMFK and UMPI. The program allows students to begin their studies at UMPI and, after two years, transition into UMFK’s CCNE-accredited nursing program without having to relocate to the Fort Kent campus, as the required nursing courses are offered by UMFK faculty on the Presque Isle campus. The Pinning Ceremony signifies the successful completion of their nursing education.

The following BSN students received their nursing pins: Sarah J. Brown (Caribou); Brooke Caron (Van Buren); Kristyn Hatfield (Fort Fairfield); Deanna K. Long (Fort Fairfield); Hunter C. Milliard (Presque Isle); and Tiffany E. Smith (Mapleton).

Faculty, staff, and students, along with family members and friends of the graduates, gathered to honor the recipients of the Bachelor of Science degree in nursing. UMPI President Dr. Ray Rice welcomed attendees and extended congratulations to the students.

UMFK Dean of the Nursing program Erin C. Soucy, Ph.D., RN, said, “How fitting that this year’s theme, as recognized by the American Nurses Association, is ‘The Power of Nurses.’ Graduates, you embody that power. The power of nurses lies not only in clinical excellence, but in the ability to bring hope in times of despair, clarity in moments of confusion, and healing in the midst of suffering.”

The guest speaker for the pinning ceremony was UMFK alumna Melissa Charette.

Melissa Charette graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from UMFK in 2000. She then earned her MSN and post-master’s certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Husson University in 2003. She became the first psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the St. John Valley, paving the way for many others. Charette worked at Acadia Hospital in a leadership role as senior PMHNP, supervising three departments of nursing staff and all of the PMHNPs at the hospital. She received the Nursing Excellence Award through Acadia Hospital and the UMFK Outstanding Alumna Award from the UMFK Nursing Division. In 2011, she started a private practice, Life Lessons Psychiatric Services, where she continues to provide mental health services. She has been an adjunct faculty member for the last 22 years at UMFK and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Nursing Practice degree through UMFK.

Charette said, “Never forget why you started. Let your care be filled with empathy, your practice with integrity, and your heart with courage. Your pin symbolizes a promise. A promise to advocate for your patients. To be present in their most fragile moments.”

Dr. Stacy Thibodeau, UMFK faculty member who teaches on the UMPI campus, recognized these six nursing students with very special awards.

The Mary Eliza Mahoney Award for Diversity & Inclusion was awarded to Sarah J. Brown. Sara consistently advocates for equity, compassion, and cultural understanding in every space she enters. Like Mary Eliza Mahoney, the first African American registered nurse, Sara leads with grace, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to a more inclusive world and health care system.

The Dorothea Dix Award for Mental Health Advocacy was awarded to Kristin Hatfield. Kristin’s passion for mental health care has been evident in every clinical rotation and conversation. She has shown deep empathy, fierce advocacy, and a heart for those who often go unheard. Like Dorothea Dox, Kristin is a beacon of light in a field that so desperately needs compassion and reform.

The Virginia Henderson Award for Holistic Nursing was awarded to Tiffany Tompkins. Tiffany embodies the essence of holistic care. She treats the whole person – body, mind, and spirit – and honors the unique journey of each patient. Like Virginia Henderson, who redefined nursing as assisting individuals toward independence and well-being, Tiffany, your care is as thoughtful as it is empowering.

The Jean Watson Award for Caring Science was awarded to Brooke Caron. Brooke has a gift for blending scientific excellence with heartfelt connection. Brooke has demonstrated that caring is not just what we do, it’s who we are. Like Jean Watson, Brooke’s practice reflects deep intention, human connection, and a profound respect for every patient’s story.

The Walt Whitman Award was awarded to Hunter Milliard. Most know Whitman as a poet, but few know of his tireless work as a volunteer nurse during the Civil War. Like him, Hunter is a quiet force of compassion, always giving and always putting others first.

The Margaret Sanger Award for Patient Advocacy was awarded to Deanna Long. Deanna is fearless when it comes to standing up for her patients. She empowers them through education, voice, and action. Like Margaret Sanger, she is a trailblazer – someone who challenges the status quo to ensure that all patients have the right to knowledge and the dignity of choice.

The senior class address was by Brooke Caron. Caron said, “Today marks the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication. It’s a moment that signifies our transformation from students to professionals who will have the privilege and responsibility of caring for others in some of their most vulnerable moments.”

A special video recording by nationally recognized and nursing textbook author Dr. Keith Rischer was also shared with the students. Dr. Rischer is not only a seasoned ICU nurse and dedicated nurse educator, but also a respected author and international speaker who has inspired countless nurses around the world.

“I want to give a big shout-out to the University of Maine at Fort Kent 2025 graduating nursing students! As you start your new journey as a nurse, I want you to know you have what it takes! Embrace this new identity, as a professional nurse, and live it, allow yourself to be the change that our profession needs to make a difference and serve well in all that you do,” said Dr. Rischer.

“Always remember that those who serve are the greatest of all.” Dr. Rischer added.

In closing, Dr. Erin Soucy said, “I will leave you with this quote from Maya Angelou: People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

The University of Maine at Fort Kent Athletic Department will host the first-ever Bengal Overnight Track & Field Camp this summer. The camp will run from Sunday, June 22, through Thursday, June 26. Registration is open to all students ages 10 to 18.

The cost is $595 per camper. A $100 non-refundable deposit is required at the time of registration. Campers will stay in the UMFK residence halls and spend their days training in the Sports Center.

The goal of the track & field camp is to develop and improve athletes’ track and field ability through an environment that is fun and conducive to learning. The session will accommodate all skill levels through a full week of intense and enjoyable training.

UMFK coaching staff and athletes will be working with participants to teach or improve technique in field events, effective training for all different race lengths, creative methods to develop skills if resources are limited, and education about the importance of nutrition and hydration. All skill levels are invited to participate in this camp, and all athletes will be encouraged to try a new event. There is a track and field event for everyone.

Items you will need to bring: a water bottle; sunscreen; running shoes; a change of shoes; track & field spikes (not mandatory but if you have them bring them); raincoat; towels; athletic clothes for five days; comfortable non-athletic clothes; personal items; medication (if any).

To reserve a spot, register online at the Track and Field Camp webpage [link no longer available].

For more information, contact Davis Cyr at davis.cyr@maine.edu or (207) 834-8637.

Each year, the University of Maine at Fort Kent Alumni Association recognizes a UMFK alumnus or alumna for their outstanding character, professional achievement, distinguished leadership, service to UMFK, and service to the community.  Without your input, we are unable to present a deserving individual with the appropriate recognition.

The Alumni Association Board appreciates all of the nominations that are received. If you know someone who has demonstrated success in their career and/or personal life, please take the time to nominate them online at the Outstanding Alumni Award webpage.

The deadline for submission is Friday, June 27, 2025.

The recipient of the award will be honored during the University’s annual Homecoming weekend to be held September 19-21, 2025.

If you would like to request a hard copy of the nomination form or for more information, please contact Susan Tardie at susan.tardie@maine.edu or by phone at 207-834-7557.

The University of Maine at Fort Kent Athletic Department will host two action-packed Bengal Overnight Soccer Camps this summer. The first camp will run from Sunday, June 22, through Thursday, June 26, and the second from Sunday, July 27, through Thursday, July 31. Registration is open to all students entering grades six through twelve.

The cost is $595 per camper. A $100 non-refundable deposit is required at the time of registration for either the June or July session. Campers will stay in the UMFK residence halls and spend their days training on the UMFK Michael Simon Soccer Field.

The goal of the soccer camp is to develop and improve each player’s skills in a fun and supportive learning environment. Sessions will accommodate all skill levels, offering a full week of focused and enjoyable training.

UMFK coaching staff and players will teach individual techniques, ball mastery, 1v1 attacking and defending, and team concepts. Training will include rondos, small-sided games, and full scrimmages to build vision, quick decision-making, and positional understanding.

Additional activities will include yoga for recovery, strength and flexibility training, nutrition and hydration education, game film analysis, and a session on how to create a college recruitment video for participants aged 14 and older.

The summer camps continue to be popular with both local residents and visitors who spend their summers in the St. John Valley.

To reserve a spot, register online at the UMFK Athletics website.

For more information, contact Dru Bogden at (207) 834-7805 or steven.bogden@maine.edu.