UMFK News Releases

The University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) is celebrating Nick Alpeza as the first graduate of the University’s new Bachelor of Science in Forest Management program, marking a significant milestone for both Alpeza and the future of forestry education at Maine’s northernmost university.

A non-traditional student with a passion for forestry and hands-on learning, Alpeza graduated from UMFK in 2025 with an Associate of Science degree in Applied Forest Management. Just one year later, he earned his Bachelor of Science in Forest Management — becoming the first student to complete the University’s newest forestry degree program.

In recognition of his academic achievement, leadership, and campus involvement, Alpeza was also selected as the recipient of the 2026 UMFK Dean’s Award.

“Nick has been an outstanding student and student employee throughout his time at UMFK,” said Neil Thompson, associate professor of forestry. “He has excelled in his coursework, enriched by his work experience with the Maine Forest Service and his work on a variety of projects at UMFK. We know Nick will continue this success in his career.”

UMFK launched the Bachelor of Science in Forest Management program to further strengthen its commitment to meeting workforce needs within Maine’s vital natural resources industry. Developed in consultation with forest industry professionals, environmental leaders, and academic experts, the program combines classroom instruction with extensive field experience and applied learning opportunities.

The degree builds on UMFK’s Society of American Foresters-accredited Associate of Science in Forest Management program. It prepares students for careers as foresters, forest managers, conservation scientists, land use planners, and natural resource consultants through coursework in silviculture, forest ecology, GIS and mapping technologies, forest operations, timber harvesting, and environmental policy.

“With this new program, UMFK is expanding opportunities for students to pursue rewarding careers in one of Maine’s most essential and historic industries,” said Andy Egan, dean of arts and sciences. “Nick’s success is an example of what is possible when students combine hard work, curiosity, and hands-on learning experiences. We are incredibly proud to celebrate him as the first graduate of this program.”

Set in the heart of the St. John Valley, UMFK’s forestry program offers students direct access to working forests and strong connections to forestry professionals and employers throughout the region. Alpeza said those opportunities played a major role in his educational experience.

“UMFK has taught me a great deal of forestry knowledge and skills while providing me with a lot of hands-on experience in forestry,” said Alpeza. “I am proud to be UMFK’s first student to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in forestry, and I hope there are many more to come.”

Throughout his time at UMFK, Alpeza remained highly involved in campus life and research initiatives. He served as president of the Sustainability Club, helped support greenhouse and campus sustainability efforts, and regularly participated in forestry-themed campus activities and demonstrations.

In addition to his coursework, Alpeza worked multiple forestry-related jobs on campus and completed internships with support from UMFK’s industry partnerships.

Alpeza said some of his favorite experiences came through field-based classes such as Introduction to Forestry, Silviculture, and Forest Management Practicum, where students develop comprehensive management plans for forested properties. Faculty and staff also played an important role in his success.

“All of the forestry professors I had at UMFK were very helpful both in and out of class,” Alpeza said. “The professors and staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and supportive.”

Following graduation, Alpeza will continue building his forestry and environmental experience this summer while working at Valley Forge National Historical Park, where he will focus on invasive species removal.

For more information about the Bachelor of Science in Forest Management program at UMFK, visit the Forest Management program webpage.

The University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) Athletic Department has opened registration for two sessions of its annual Bengal Overnight Soccer Camps this summer. The residential programs are open to students entering grades six through 12 and will be held June 28 through July 2 and July 19 through July 23.

The camps offer an immersive experience where participants stay in UMFK residence halls and train on the Michael Simon Soccer Field. The curriculum is designed to improve skill levels for all players through a mix of individual technique, ball mastery, and team concepts in a supportive learning environment.

Instruction is provided by UMFK coaching staff and players. The training schedule includes rondos, small-sided games, and full scrimmages intended to build vision, quick decision-making, and positional understanding.

In addition to field work, the program incorporates holistic athlete development. Participants will engage in yoga for recovery, strength and flexibility training, and education on nutrition and hydration. Players aged 14 and older will also attend a specialized session on how to create a college recruitment video and participate in game film analysis.

The cost is $595 per camper, which includes a $100 non-refundable deposit due at the time of registration.

Interested families can register online. For additional information, contact Dru Bogden at (207) 834-7805 or via email at steven.bogden@maine.edu.

The University of Maine at Fort Kent held its 144th commencement exercises May 9 at the UMFK Sports Center. UMFK President Deb Hedeen presided over the ceremony.

Students from 9 countries and 14 states were awarded 196 degrees this spring, including post-master’s graduate certificates, Master of Science, Bachelor of Arts and Sciences, Bachelor of Science, Associate of Arts, and Associate of Science degrees.

The 2026 valedictorian was Michael Nibley from Eagle Lake. Nibley earned a Bachelor of Science degree in computer systems administration. The 2026 salutatorian was Krista Coffin of Presque Isle, who earned her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing.

UMFK also awarded a posthumous Bachelor of Science degree in nursing to Heather Browning. Heather’s family accepted the diploma in her honor.

The faculty marshal was Lisa Lavoie, associate professor of behavioral science. The 2026 mace bearer was Scott Brickman, professor of music and education. The honor of carrying the mace is reserved to the professor senior-most in service.

The national anthem was sung by Jade McCafferty of San Antonio.

Welcome messages were made from the University of Maine System Trustee Kelly Martin of Fort Kent and UMFK Alumni Association President Blair Kelly of St. John Plantation.

The Fort Kent Lions Club was honored with the University’s Distinguished Service Award for going above and beyond in service to UMFK and the greater community of the St. John Valley. State Representative Lucien Daigle read a legislative sentiment honoring the club.

Lisa Harvey-McPherson, a distinguished healthcare executive and nurse leader currently serving as the vice president of governance relations at Northern Light Health, was presented with a UMFK honorary doctoral degree and served as the guest speaker.

Georgia Burton addressed her fellow graduates. Burton is from Cedar Valley in Westmoreland, Jamaica, and graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology.

As the newest members of the University of Maine at Fort Kent Alumni Association, graduates were invited to ring the University’s ceremonial bell. When students enter UMFK as first-year students, they ring the bell commemorating the start of their college education. At graduation, they ring it again, signifying the completion of their degree.

(Graduates listed by their hometowns.)

The University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) is pleased to announce that the Fort Kent Lions Club will be awarded the 2026 UMFK Distinguished Service Award at UMFK’s 144th Commencement ceremony on May 9, 2026.

The Distinguished Service Award is presented to individuals or organizations that have demonstrated exceptional service to UMFK, the St. John Valley, Aroostook County or the state of Maine.

“We are pleased to recognize the service and support of the Fort Kent Lions Club” said UMFK President Deb Hedeen, “Their commitment to community and generous spirit have created meaningful opportunities for the greater Fort Kent area. We are grateful for the difference they continue to make each and every day.”

The Fort Kent Lions Club has served as a community cornerstone for nearly 88 years. The organization dedicates its efforts to improving the quality of life for regional residents through consistent volunteerism and community support.

The club operates without a private facility, allowing the group to direct all resources toward local causes. Through major fundraisers such as the annual Festival of Trees and the biannual Pride of the Lions Show, the club has raised and distributed thousands of dollars to support organizations, including the Town of Fort Kent Recreation Department, Fort Kent Snowmobile Club, Lonesome Pine Trails, the University of Maine at Fort Kent, local athletic teams, nonprofits, and individuals and families in need.

Beyond the local region, the club contributes to global efforts, including vision care programs and blindness prevention screenings. The organization also participates in disaster relief and funds youth programs designed to build leadership skills in the next generation.

Guided by principles of service, excellence and integrity, the Fort Kent Lions Club continues to collaborate with partners to meet humanitarian needs. The university invites the public to celebrate the club’s impact during the May commencement exercises.

In his role as the University of Maine at Fort Kent’s new Assistant Resident TRiO Tutor (ARTT) program’s tutorial resident assistant, Angel Solis Anguiano prefers using the “see one, do one, teach one” learning model in assisting fellow students with their studies. The hands-on learning model dates to 19th-century surgical training, but Solis finds it still very helpful for all academic disciplines in 2026.

Solis is a second-year nursing student at UMFK, and his role is to connect with students to ensure that they have a positive learning environment, are provided with tutoring assistance where and when they need it – primarily during evenings and on weekends – and to look after students’ personal and social well-being.

The ARTT position Solis holds is new to campus this year and is unique in both its function and its funding. Typically, TRiO-funded positions are only able to serve TRiO students. However, the ARTT position has shared funding – half from TRiO and half from UMFK. And while TRiO students have priority, Solis is available to tutor all students. It is a unique collaboration in providing peer-to-peer counseling.

Solis is, himself, a TRiO student, being the first in his family to seek a college education. The Texas native is bilingual in English and Spanish and has gained prior tutoring experience in high school.

“I first learned about the “see one, do one, teach one” method from one of my high school counselors,” Solis explains. “That early experience gave me the foundation needed for my current position at UMFK. What I like most about using this model is its versatility across all subjects. This model not only makes the student remember the material, but it allows them to genuinely learn and comprehend it.”

Susan M. Dubay is the director of TRiO Student Support Services at UMFK. She supervises Solis in his role as ARTT tutor. She explains the program’s concept.

“The Assistant Resident TRiO Tutor position is a collaboration of TRiO, Student Affairs, and Residential Life. The position is designed for a student who will provide academic tutoring and limited residential support within the campus community. The position is a unique initiative developed at UMFK to holistically support our students within their living and learning environments. The position’s primary goal is to meet students where they are—both academically and personally—by providing meaningful, accessible support that enhances their overall university experience.

“The position is supported by a TRiO grant, which is dedicated to promoting student retention, maintaining good academic standing, and ensuring the successful graduation of TRiO scholars. The role exemplifies an outstanding model of cross-campus collaboration to meet the academic needs of all students, while prioritizing support for TRiO participants who may face additional challenges, such as being income-eligible, first-generation college students, and/or individuals with disabilities,” Dubay adds.

Solis has been pleasantly surprised by the acceptance of the ARTT program. The peer-to-peer learning concept has been well received.

“Students love the program,” Solis proudly exclaims. “So many students feel comfortable asking a peer for assistance understanding an assignment or concept.”

Emily Pelletier, a nursing student from Madawaska, Maine, is a big fan of Solis and the ARTT program.

“I am grateful for the program, as it has helped me to work through some challenges understanding class material. I am a non-traditional nursing student in my freshman/sophomore year. I have been out of school for more than 10 years,” she explained.

“I have taken classes with Angel. I asked him if he could explain a concept that I was not understanding in chemistry class. I didn’t know where to start. Angel walked me through it, and I ended up getting a 100 on my next quiz,” Pelletier added.

Joel Musika, a junior computer system administration student from Malmesbury, Western Cape, South Africa, also sings the praises of the program and of Angel.

“Angel has helped me with my language skills, especially in structuring and organizing essays,” Musika said. “There’s something about getting help from another student, as opposed to a professor, that I find helpful. I think there’s a lessened sense of academic pressure from a student tutor,” he remarked.

Linda Arbelaez of Fort Kent, Maine, is a first-year psychology major. The Guatemalan native said the ARTT program has been a great resource for her.

“I met with Angel to review and complete algebra assignments. Each session has greatly improved my confidence and understanding of the subject. The fact that he is also bilingual has been a tremendous help. Being able to understand complex math concepts in my native language has made a big difference for me,” she said.

For his part, Solis is gaining valuable experience and building a rapport among fellow students. He regularly holds hours in The Lodge, Crocker Hall, and the TRiO office in Powell Hall, but he is accessible for tutoring beyond his posted hours. Given that Solis is a second-year student, he could become a familiar face with ARTT for a few more years. Familiarity and longevity can go a long way toward ensuring a program’s success.

For more information about the University of Maine at Fort Kent, visit the UMFK website.

University of Maine at Fort Kent women’s soccer team standout, Shaniah Johnson (‘27), recently was named as a midfielder to the country of Grenada’s senior women’s national football (soccer) team, it was announced by the Grenada Football Association.

Johnson, a St. George, Grenada native, joined the Grenadian national team in late February for the 29-team competition in the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) women’s qualifying round to fill six spots for the CONCACAF championship.  The competition also serves as a pathway to the 2027 International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) Women’s World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics.

Johnson’s first match with her national teammates was against Guatemala in Guatemala City.  While Grenada lost that contest, Johnson is expected to participate in Grenada’s next rounds of CONCACAF qualifying competition in a home match against the Cayman Islands on April 14 and an away match versus Bermuda on April 18.

This is not the first time that Johnson has been a member of a “Spice Isle” nation’s women’s national team.  Previously, she captained the Under 17 (U17) and Under 20 (U20) national teams.  Members of the senior women’s national team are known as the “Spice Girlz.”

“I am very happy to represent my country in the CONCACAF competition,” said Johnson.  “After tearing my ACL in 2023, I was not sure if I would ever be selected again. I watched from the sidelines, wishing I could be there. To finally be back is an amazing feeling,” she added.

The junior environmental studies major is much more than a key member of the women’s soccer team.  She is the epitome of a true student-athlete.

This past fall, Johnson was named a member of the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA) All-Academic Team for 2025.  Johnson has a 3.6 grade point average.

In addition to her performance on the field, Johnson is highly engaged in campus life. She is an active member of the Student Activities Board, the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, the Career Club, Bengal Executives, and the International Student Organization.  Johnson also serves as a tutor on campus, demonstrating her commitment to academic success and her willingness to support her peers.

Johnson’s international competition recognition comes as no surprise to her UMFK Lady Bengals Head Women’s Soccer Coach, Jermaine West.

“Shaniah has been a key contributor in the midfield for UMFK, demonstrating consistency, work rate, and tactical awareness throughout the season. As a box-to-box midfielder, she plays an important role in both the attacking and defensive phases of the game.  What separates Shaniah is her work ethic and commitment to the team. She covers significant grounds in each match, supports defensively, and contributes to maintaining team shape. Her willingness to do the ‘unseen work,’ tracking back, winning second balls, and linking play makes her an invaluable asset to the squad,” said West.

UMFK Athletic Director, Jason Coleman, observed, “It is incredibly significant for UMFK’s athletic program to have a current student-athlete receive this level of recognition. Achievements like this elevate not only the individual but the entire university community, reinforcing the strength and credibility of UMFK athletics on a broader stage. For the women’s soccer program specifically, this recognition highlights the quality of coaching, player development, and competitive environment that UMFK provides. It sends a strong message to prospective student-athletes that they can come to UMFK and not only compete but truly excel and gain meaningful recognition for their efforts.

“Moments like this are a source of immense pride, not just for the athletic department, but for the entire university community. To see one of our own reach this level of achievement is both inspiring and deeply affirming,” Coleman noted.

Johnson credits her playing time at UMFK as helping build and refine her soccer skills.

“Being a Lady Bengal has helped me gain confidence. My teammates, coaches and community helped me realize the impact that we have and how much more we can achieve: learning different styles of plays, developing a greater sense of the game and just having fun,” she said.

The University of Maine at Fort Kent is pleased to announce Lisa Harvey-McPherson, a distinguished healthcare executive and nurse leader, will serve as the keynote speaker for the University’s 144th commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 9.

During the ceremony, Harvey-McPherson will also be awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters in recognition of her lifelong advocacy for the nursing profession.

“Lisa Harvey-McPherson is not only a leader in nursing and healthcare, but she is also a mentor and advocate who has touched countless lives,” said UMFK President Deb Hedeen. “It is a joy to recognize her with an honorary doctorate degree and to have her share her insights and inspiration with our graduates at this year’s commencement.”

Harvey-McPherson is the vice president of governance relations at Northern Light Health. In this role, she shapes legislative agendas and policies on healthcare and healthcare education, acting as a primary liaison between the healthcare system and elected officials at both the state and federal levels.

A veteran of the industry, she earned a Bachelor of Science in nursing from the University of Southern Maine in 1984 and a Master of Business Administration from Thomas College in 1987 and completed postgraduate studies at the University of Southern Maine in 1990.

Her professional career includes leadership roles as nurse manager at Kennebec Valley Regional Health Center in Waterville and director of Waldo County Home Health Care in Belfast.

Throughout her career, Harvey-McPherson has been a driving force in nursing policy. She was instrumental in revitalizing the Maine Nursing Action Coalition, which aligned state efforts with national initiatives to address nursing workforce shortages.   Her legislative work was featured in a 2008 Nursing Outlook article, “Maine’s Nursing Workforce Legislation – Lessons from a Rural State.”

Harvey-McPherson has earned numerous accolades, including Maine Nursing Leader of the Year by the Organization of Maine Nursing Leadership; Advocate of the Year by the Home Care & Hospice Alliance of Maine; and Advocacy Award for Individual Achievement from the American Organization of Nurse Leaders.

Beyond her policy work, Harvey-McPherson is recognized for her commitment to mentorship, guiding nurses at every stage of their careers. She continues to serve on several state and national boards, ensuring a strong voice for Maine’s healthcare providers and patients.

The University of Maine at Fort Kent will host its 15th annual Scholars’ Symposium on Wednesday, April 29, highlighting students’ research and academic excellence.

The symposium begins Wednesday morning with a welcome from UMFK President and Provost Deb Hedeen, followed by the presentation of the undergraduate academic awards. The schedule then transitions to student-led presentations.

“UMFK’s Scholars’ Symposium is one of the highlights of our academic year,” Hedeen said. “It is a celebration of student research, academic excellence, and the incredible work happening across our campus.”

Immediately following the student presentations, UMFK faculty members will deliver “Lightning Talks,” five-minute presentations that will focus on a single topic, project, or technique.

This year’s keynote speaker of the symposium will be Dr. Meredith McFadden, a research scientist in AI Ethics at Northeastern University. McFadden specializes in translating philosophical concepts into practical frameworks for technology. Her work focuses on ensuring autonomous systems and AI-driven decisions remain ethical, and she frequently develops responsible-use guidelines for global organizations.

McFadden has led high-stakes projects for the defense and tech industries, including a DARPA-funded study on the ethics of autonomous weapons. A frequent public commentator and contributor to academic journals, she holds a Ph.D. in philosophy from UC Riverside. McFadden is recognized for making complex topics accessible, with writings ranging from disability rights and climate change to fairness in intellectual valuation.

“It is exciting to see students apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to meaningful, real-world research projects and share their findings with the broader community,” said Dr. Stéphanie Landry, assistant professor of forestry and chair of the symposium committee.

The afternoon will continue to highlight students’ research with poster sessions at the Sports Center from 1 to 3 p.m.

This portion of the event is open to the public and provides a terrific opportunity for community members of all ages to interact with UMFK students and learn more from subject-matter experts.

The day’s events will conclude with an awards presentation to honor exemplary student work.

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

For more information on the Scholars’ Symposium, please contact Landry at stephanie.landry1@maine.edu.