New Athletic Director

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headshot of Athletic Director Becky CarlsonThe University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) has named three-time national championship coach Becky Carlson its director of athletics.

Carlson brings more than two decades of coaching, leadership and advocacy experience to the Bengals after building Quinnipiac University’s National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I women’s rugby program from the ground up. Under Carlson’s leadership, Quinnipiac captured three consecutive national championships in 2015, 2016, and 2017—the first national titles in university history.

“Becky brings a remarkable combination of proven success, visionary leadership, and a deep commitment to student-athletes,” said UMFK President Deb Hedeen. “Building a championship program from the ground up takes more than coaching expertise. It takes vision, perseverance, and the ability to bring people together around a shared purpose. We are excited to welcome her to UMFK and look forward to the leadership, energy and experience she will bring to Bengals Athletics.”

Quinnipiac hired Carlson in 2010 to launch its women’s rugby program. When the Bobcats began competition in 2011, Quinnipiac became the nation’s second NCAA Division I women’s rugby program, while Carlson became the first woman to lead an NCAA Division I women’s rugby program as head coach.

Across 14 competitive seasons, Carlson guided Quinnipiac to 99 victories and 32 All-Americans. She was named College Rugby Coach of the Year in 2015 and graduated from the NCAA Women Coaches Academy in the same year, earning the Class of 36 “Judy Sweet Award”.

Carlson was the former college coach of Olympic standout Ilona Maher, who helped Team USA win a rugby sevens bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. Maher was named Best Breakthrough Athlete at the 2025 ESPYS, was a finalist on the 2024 season of “Dancing with the Stars,” and has become a prominent advocate for body positivity.

Quinnipiac’s success helped establish a model for other institutions interested in sponsoring varsity women’s rugby. During Carlson’s tenure, the number of NCAA women’s rugby programs grew from five to 30 nationwide. The program’s story was featured in the 2024 documentary “Believe — The Quinnipiac Rugby Story.”

Before joining Quinnipiac, Carlson served as USA Rugby’s NCAA Emerging Sports Program Manager, leading initiatives to expand women’s rugby and varsity opportunities for female student-athletes. She previously coached rugby at Eastern Illinois University and served as an assistant coach for soccer, lacrosse, and softball at Ferrum College.

Carlson competed in Division I rugby and tennis at Eastern Illinois, where she was among the first recruits for the nation’s first NCAA Division I women’s rugby program. She earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism in 2003 and a master’s degree in physical education and sports administration in 2004, and an MJ in Labor and Employment from Tulane in 2024. A three-sport varsity athlete and 1999 graduate of Arundel High School, Carlson became the first female student-athlete in Maryland to play high school boys’ baseball in 1996. She also appeared on ABC’s “Wide World of Sports” with the Colorado Silver Bullets women’s professional baseball team.

“We are very grateful for the support that Becky has already brought to the Athletics Department,” said Davis Cyr, UMFK’s head track and field and women’s volleyball coach. “Immediately, she has put pieces in place to help coaches with professional development. Personally, she has connected me with a bi-monthly working group of coaches from around the country whose philosophy is centered around athlete development and positive team culture. Becky has also been valuable in listening to the needs of our teams and has begun to establish some new standards and benchmarks to help us achieve our goals.”

For more information about Carlson and the UMFK Athletic Department, visit the university’s website.

Homecoming 2026

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a male UMFK soccer player keeps the ball away from the opponentThe University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) will host its annual Homecoming celebration September 18-20, offering three days of athletic competitions, family activities, and alumni reunions. The public is invited to join students, faculty, and community members throughout the weekend.

Festivities begin on Friday, Sept. 18, with bouncy houses, field games and athletic team stations at 3 p.m. on Michael Simon Field. A free community barbecue will take place near the Sports Center from 5 to 6 p.m. At 7 p.m., UMFK will host a reception at the Blake Library for the new Legacy Wall display, celebrating the university’s growth since its 1878 founding as the Madawaska Training School. The evening concludes with a 9 p.m. dance featuring DJ Jhano at Lonesome Pine Trails. The dance is open to the public. Donations are welcome and will benefit UMFK clubs and organizations.

Saturday, Sept. 19, events start at 9 a.m. with the inaugural Acadian Federal Credit Union Crow Chase 5K at the UMFK Sports Center, benefiting the Fort Kent Recreation Department.  The Greater Fort Kent Area Chamber of Commerce Scarecrow Festival Parade begins at 11 a.m. from the Market Street Courthouse toward Community High School (CHS). Food trucks and family activities will run from noon to 7 p.m. at the Sports Center quad. Athletics take center stage at 4 p.m. as the Bengal men’s soccer team faces the University of Southern Maine Huskies at Michael Simon Field, followed by an evening student-hosted bonfire at Crocker Beach. The bonfire is an alcohol-free event and is open to the public.

At 10:30 a.m., the Homecoming Brunch and Awards Ceremony will take place in Nadeau Hall. This year, the UMFK Alumni Association will recognize the graduating classes of 1946, 1956, 1966, 1976, 1986, 1996, 2001, 2006, 2016, and 2021. There will be special recognition for the classes of 1976 (50-year reunion) and 2001 (25-year reunion). The Association will present awards to this year’s Outstanding Alumni Award and outgoing Alumni Association Board Members. Tickets are $15 per person.  This is a chance to reconnect with alumni, old friends, and new acquaintances.

On Sunday, the weekend concludes with a women’s volleyball doubleheader against Fisher College at noon in the Sports Center on the Lowell Ozzie Osgood court. On Michael Simon Field, the women’s alumni soccer game begins at noon, followed by the men’s alumni soccer game at 2 p.m.

To register or view UMFK Homecoming events at the UMFK Homecoming webpage.

The UMFK campus store, located in Cyr Hall, is offering 20% off all clothing and novelty items on Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and on Saturday the campus store will be onsite outside the Sports Center from noon to 5 p.m.

Now through Oct. 9, the Blake Library Gallery presents “A Patchwork of Ideas,” an exhibition featuring the works of artist Joshua Birden. The exhibition is free and open to the public.

Join us for a weekend of Bengal community spirit and unforgettable memories.

All events with free food and/or limited capacity are first-come, first-served.

For more information on UMFK Homecoming events or to purchase tickets, please contact Michael Elliott at 207-834-7800.

Madore Scholarship Endowment

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15 members of the Fort Kent Community High School class of 1961 stand together outside for a group photoThe Fort Kent Community High School Class of 1961 celebrated its 65th reunion July 31 by surpassing an ambitious fundraising goal to endow a University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) scholarship honoring their late classmate, Dr. Nelson Madore.

The class raised $7,093 through its Legacy65 campaign, exceeding its $5,000 goal by $2,093. Combined with gifts made by classmates in previous years, the campaign proceeds will allow the scholarship to be converted to an endowed fund administered by the UMFK Foundation. The endowment will provide a permanent source of scholarship support for future UMFK students.

“The Class of 1961 turned a reunion milestone into a promise to future generations,” said Michael Elliott, Executive Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations at UMFK. “Their generosity will help local students begin their college education close to home while carrying forward Dr. Madore’s belief in education, service and community. We are deeply grateful for the class’s vision and for the enduring difference this scholarship will make in the lives of UMFK students and their families.”

Classmates established the scholarship in 2017 and have funded it entirely through their own contributions. The fund provides a $1,000 scholarship to a graduating Fort Kent Community High School senior who enrolls at UMFK. Ten students have received scholarships since the program began.

In 2021, the class renamed the fund the Dr. Nelson Madore Scholarship Fund in memory of Madore, who died Dec. 24, 2020, at age 77.

“Nelson’s achievements — from a small Winterville farm to military hero, devoted father, cherished college professor and committed community leader — represent the best of our 1961 class and a role model for our community,” classmate Norman Marquis said. “Nelson lived the American Dream.”

Madore grew up on his family’s farm in Winterville and graduated from Fort Kent Community High School in 1961. He served in the U.S. Army as a Green Beret, Ranger and paratrooper with the 101st Airborne Division. He later earned a doctorate in education and devoted approximately 40 years to teaching history, government and management at Thomas College in Waterville.

Beyond the classroom, Madore served as an academic adviser and mentor to generations of students. He was also a longtime member and chair of the Waterville School Board and served as mayor of Waterville. His life reflected a sustained commitment to education, public service, family and community.

The success of Legacy65 ensures that the Class of 1961’s generosity and Madore’s example of service and achievement will continue through each UMFK student supported by the endowment.

Visit UMFK online to learn how you can make a lasting impact on students through scholarship or unrestricted support.

9/11 Memorial Hike

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an American flag hangs from the ladder of a fire truckThe University of Maine at Fort Kent’s (UMFK) Criminal Justice Program will host a 9/11 Memorial Hike on Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, at Lonesome Pine Trails.

The event marks the 25th anniversary of Patriot Day and offers community members an opportunity to gather and honor those who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001.

Check-in begins at 8:15 a.m., and the hike will officially start at 8:46 a.m., marking the exact time the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center.

The memorial hike is free and open to the public. Participants are advised to wear appropriate footwear for trail conditions. Restroom facilities will be available inside the main lodge.

Advance registration is available online at the 9/11 Memorial Hike Registration Page.

For additional information, contact Matt Curran at matthew.g.curran@maine.edu.

Joshua Birden Exhibit

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a sketch of a multi-armed creature playing a harpThe Blake Library Gallery at the University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) will present “A Patchwork of Ideas,” an exhibition of work by artist Joshua Birden, through Oct. 9. The exhibit is free and open to the public.

Birden grew up in Fort Kent and attended UMFK before earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI) with a focus in digital media. He will return to the community with an exhibit that highlights the range of his creative process.

“It’s a collection of illustrations made for various projects or for practice,” Birden said. “I’m displaying the different kinds of work I produce and some of the methods I use to create them.”

The exhibition includes digital works, mixed media pieces, and sketchbook pages that show how Birden develops ideas from early concepts into finished illustrations. Works such as “Singing Stones” and “Red Lights Over the Factory Planet” began with hand-drawn thumbnails before being developed digitally, often in Clip Studio Paint.

“Digital art is very powerful and one I’ve come to really appreciate,” Birden said. “However, pen and pencil are still where I feel most comfortable.”

Birden utilizes different materials to achieve distinct visual approaches. Digital works like “Layover,” feature sharp outlines and solid colors, while “Red Lights Over the Factory Planet” adopts a direct paintbrush style. Mixed media pieces, including “Stingin’ Pete” and “Caterwaul the Single-Mind,” combine various pens, pastels, and pencil.

Throughout the exhibition, Birden shifts between expressive figure work and imaginative scenes influenced by science fiction, fantasy, and surrealism.

“I love motion, figures, and using them to explore themes of emotion and mental state,” Birden said. “I also really enjoy creature design based on things like the Lovecraftian Mythos and speculative evolution.”

Birden credits his mother as the first artist he looked up to and says her surrealist paintings continue to influence him. He also draws inspiration from classical artists such as Egon Schiele and Francisco Goya, as well as comic artists Yoshihiro Togashi, Bill Watterson, Naoki Urasawa, and Junji Ito.

“Ultimately, my biggest inspiration comes from comic books,” Birden said. “The art of making comics has always fascinated me.”

Birden is currently developing “Layover,” a science fiction comedy graphic novel starring an android delivery driver. The artwork “Layover,” included in the exhibition, is directly connected to the graphic novel project. Birden is also creating illustrations for a children’s book in collaboration with his father.

For more information about the exhibit, contact Blake Library Curator Sofia Birden at sbirden@maine.edu or 207-834-7527.

See Birden’s online gallery to view additional work.

USDA Research Grant

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a UMFK forestry student and Libin Thaikkattil Louis in the forest
From left, UMFK forestry student and Libin Thaikkattil Louis, UMFK Assistant Professor of Forestry, examine forest samples in the field. Louis is leading a five-year, $649,836 USDA-funded biomass research project.

The University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) has received the largest research grant in the institution’s history, securing a five-year, $649,836 total award from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) through its Agriculture and Food Research Initiative.

The USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Agriculture and Food Research Initiative is the nation’s leading competitive grants program supporting research, education and extension projects that address critical challenges facing agriculture, natural resources and rural communities.

The grant will support a research project titled “Assessing Forest Readiness for Creating Efficient Biomass Supply Chains: Perceptions on Emerging and Innovative Technologies.” The project is led by Libin Thaikkattil Louis, assistant professor of forestry at UMFK and principal investigator, in collaboration with co-principal investigators Anil Raj Kizha and Adam Daigneault from the University of Maine School of Forest Resources.

The research will examine how emerging technologies can improve the production, harvesting and transportation of woody biomass while supporting healthy forest ecosystems and sustainable economic growth. Using long-term forest inventory data from across the Northeast, the research team will evaluate the economic and environmental impacts of forest biomass supply chains and develop strategies to improve their efficiency and sustainability.

The project comes as demand for renewable, forest-based materials continues to grow, increasing the need for research that balances forest productivity with long-term environmental stewardship.

“This award is a significant milestone for the University and a testament to the high-quality research being conducted by our faculty,” said Dean of Arts and Sciences Andrew Egan. “Our faculty’s leadership on this project highlights the strength of our forestry program and demonstrates that UMFK is making meaningful contributions to solving complex challenges facing the forest products industry.”

According to Louis, the project is designed to provide practical information for forest landowners, industry professionals and policymakers as the region transitions toward a more sustainable bioeconomy.

“Our forests play a vital role in supporting both the environment and the economy,” Louis said. “This research will help us better understand how emerging technologies can improve the efficiency of biomass supply chains while ensuring responsible forest management. By integrating ecological, economic and social considerations, we hope to provide stakeholders with the information they need to make informed decisions that support healthy forests and thriving rural communities.”

The grant includes funding for one master’s student and one doctoral student at the R1 UMaine strengthens UMFK’s forestry program by expanding faculty research and reinforcing the University’s reputation as a leader in undergraduate forestry education. UMFK offers both Associate of Science and Bachelor of Science degrees in Forest Management.

In addition to the newly announced USDA-funded project, other UMFK forestry faculty have also received grant awards.

Assistant Professor of Forestry and Wildlife Management Stéphanie Landry is the principal investigator on the research project, “Winter Tick Management: Protecting Maine’s Moose Population,” funded by the University of Maine System using State appropriation for the Maine Economic Improvement Funds, known as MEIF. The work will examine approaches to reducing the impact of winter ticks on moose health while supporting student involvement, partnerships, and broader benefits to Maine’s wildlife and natural resources.

UMFK Associate Professor of Forestry Neil Thompson serves as co-principal investigator on two Cooperative Forestry Research Unit-funded spruce budworm research projects launched in 2026: “Beyond the spray block: Natural enemy dynamics in spruce budworm early intervention” programs (Angela Mech, principal investigator, UMaine) and “An integrated landscape-scale monitoring and management framework for spruce budworm early intervention” (Adam Daigneault, principal investigator, UMaine). Together, these projects support research on biological control, landscape-scale monitoring, and early intervention strategies to help protect Maine’s forests from one of the region’s most significant insect pests.

UMFK President Deb Hedeen noted the extraordinary dedication of the UMFK faculty. “Our faculty are advancing transformative research while maintaining full teaching responsibilities. Their ability to excel in both is a defining strength of our university and benefits the student experience.”

For more information about the UMFK forestry program, visit the university’s website.

DNP Accreditation

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Female medical professor laughs at student's jokeThe University of Maine at Fort Kent’s (UMFK) Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) program has earned accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), affirming the program’s commitment to academic excellence, quality nursing education, and preparing advanced practice nurses to meet the evolving needs of healthcare.

The CCNE Board of Commissioners granted accreditation to UMFK’s DNP program for five years, extending through June 30, 2031. The accreditation action is effective retroactively to Oct. 20, 2025, the first day of the program’s recent CCNE on-site evaluation. The next on-site evaluation is scheduled for fall 2030.

UMFK’s DNP program welcomed its first cohort of students in the fall of 2024 and is the first doctoral program offered by the University. Delivered 100 percent online, the program includes 1,000 required clinical hours and prepares practicing nurses to develop advanced clinical, leadership, and decision-making skills needed to lead healthcare teams, implement evidence-based practice, improve patient outcomes, and influence healthcare policy. Students may choose from three tracks. Nurse Practitioners may pursue the Nursing Clinical track. Nurse Practitioners and nurses with a graduate degree in nursing, from any specialty, may pursue the Nursing Administration or Nursing Education track. The DNP is a terminal degree in the nursing profession and represents the highest level of clinical nursing education.

UMFK’s post-graduate Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) certificate program also received CCNE accreditation for five years.

During its review, the CCNE Board determined that both programs substantially complied with all four CCNE accreditation standards, which evaluate areas including program quality, institutional commitment, curriculum and teaching practices, and student achievement.

“Earning accreditation from CCNE is a significant milestone for our Doctorate of Nursing Practice and postgraduate APRN certificate programs,” said UMFK President Deb Hedeen. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our nursing faculty and their commitment to providing high-quality education that prepares advanced practice nurses to serve their communities and make a meaningful impact on healthcare.”

UMFK’s DNP program builds upon the University’s longstanding tradition of excellence in nursing education and provides nurses with advanced knowledge and skills to improve patient outcomes, lead health care initiatives, and address complex health care challenges.

“This accreditation validates the quality of our curriculum, our faculty expertise, and the exceptional learning experience we provide for our students,” said UMFK Dean of Nursing Erin Soucy. “Our DNP and postgraduate APRN certificate programs are designed to support nurses who want to advance their careers while contributing to improved health outcomes across Maine and beyond.”

The CCNE accreditation process includes a comprehensive evaluation of nursing programs against nationally recognized standards. Accreditation provides assurance to students, employers, and the public that a program meets established expectations for educational quality and effectiveness.

UMFK offers flexible nursing pathways designed to meet the needs of working professionals, including online options that allow students to continue their careers while pursuing advanced degrees such as the Master of Science in Nursing and the DNP.

For more information about UMFK’s nursing programs, visit the UMFK website.

Spring 2026 Dean’s List

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The University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) is pleased to announce its spring 2026 Dean’s List, recognizing the academic excellence of both full-time and part-time students.

“Congratulations to the students who have earned a place on the UMFK Dean’s List and Academic Recognition List,” said UMFK President Deb Hedeen. “The Dean’s List honors our full-time students, while the Academic Recognition List celebrates the achievements of our part-time learners. Their commitment, perseverance, and hard work are inspiring. We are proud to recognize their success and grateful to have them as valued members of the UMFK community.”

UMFK is the northernmost campus in the University of Maine System (UMS) and serves as a regional hub for Acadian and Franco-American culture. UMFK offers a supportive, close-knit campus environment.

UMFK provides multiple academic pathways leading to associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees. For a complete list of programs and additional information, visit the UMFK website.

FULL-TIME DEAN’S LIST

NO HOMETOWN LISTING

  • Laura Beck
  • Lillian Clarke
  • Sophie Ouellette
  • Krithika Subramanian
  • Rosaria Talbot
  • Rita Yeboah

MAINE STUDENTS: ST. JOHN VALLEY

EAGLE LAKE

  • Arianna Cyr
  • Sierra Haggenmiller

FORT KENT

  • Linda Arbelaez
  • Ines Bermudez
  • Allie Caron
  • Brooke Cyr Roy
  • Ethan Daigle
  • Benjamin Davis
  • Danalie Deprey
  • Delaney Dumond
  • Jessica Ejiogu-Njoku
  • Kristin Gile
  • Holly Guimond
  • Daniel Hafford
  • John Higgins
  • Christina Jones
  • Corinne L’Italien
  • Hannah Lovley
  • Raji Maharjan
  • Sarina Maharjan
  • Fletcher Marquis
  • Jade McCarfferty
  • Madison Morneault
  • Prakash Nepal
  • Julietta Ngoh
  • Tamia Roebuck
  • Sharanpreet Singh
  • Mallory Sirois
  • Oliwia Szatkowska
  • Guillermo Tejeda
  • Tristan Yocum

FRENCHVILLE

  • Mallory Corriveau
  • Ashley Daigle
  • Alex Deschaine
  • Riley Gagnon McKinnon
  • Kylie Pelletier

GRAND ISLE

  • Jocelyn Michaud

MADAWASKA

  • Lindsey Desroches
  • Aylssa Lajoie
  • Victoria Quistorf
  • Ryan Remalia

NEW CANADA

  • Leslie Lopez
  • Ethan Raymond

SAINT AGATHA

  • Brooke Franck

SAINT FRANCIS

  • Marissa Blier

VAN BUREN

  • Caroline Coats
  • Elmina Hawkins
  • Kylie-Michelle LaPlante

WALLAGRASS

  • Taylor Coulombe
  • Rachel Dumas
  • Kendyl Martin

WINTERVILLE PLANTATION

  • Deborah Ciejka

MAINE STUDENTS: AROOSTOOK COUNTY

BAILEYVILLE

  • Victoria Siering

BLAINE

  • Riley Prince

CARIBOU

  • Alexander Hale
  • Karson Reidy
  • Brianna Levesque
  • Marisa Michaud

EASTON

  • Emily Ventola

FORT FAIRFIELD

  • Rachel Milliard

HOULTON

  • Joshua Lombard
  • Sarah Lynds
  • Maisie Valiante

MADAWASKA LAKE

  • Connie Akerson

MAPLETON

  • Alison Goupille
  • Chase Guerrette

MONTICELLO

  • Storey Beaulieu
  • Dynel Shannon

PRESQUE ISLE

  • Olivia Blackstone
  • Jacob Carothers
  • Olivia Jalbert
  • Emma Jordan
  • Islakeno Mahabir
  • Chase Quirion

SMYRNA MILLS

  • Morgan Tarr

WOODLAND

  • Macy Wakem

MAINE STUDENTS: NOT AROOSTOOK COUNTY

ADDISON

  • Amanda Cirone

ALFRED

  • Logan Champlin

ANSON

  • Trista Campbell

AUBURN

  • Marc Daigneault
  • Daniela Alves

AUGUSTA

  • Adrianna Morley

BANGOR

  • Cheyenne Burris
  • Kandy Nichols
  • He Zuo

BOWDOIN

  • Isaac Wheeler

BREWER

  • Admit Ticharwa

BRIDGTON

  • Kyle Williams

BURHAM

  • Hillary Drake

CAPE ELIZABETH

  • Kennedi Mellen

CARMEL

  • Hailey Welch

CHESTER

  • Esmae Stockley

DIXFIELD

  • Alivia Ellis

ELLSWORTH

  • Samantha Bishop
  • Sidney Springer

GUILFORD

  • Gracie Talbot

HAMPDEN

  • Elisabeth Cronin
  • Aimee McAllian

JONESBORO

  • Quinn Cunningham

LAMOINE

  • Kasey Jordan

LEWISTON

  • Megan Tucker

LINCOLN

  • Raechle Miller

MEDWAY

  • Allyson Lee

NORTH BERWICK

  • Gabrielle White

OLD TOWN

  • Derek Dubay

ORONO

  • Jafar Ojugbele

PARSONSFIELD

  • Tira Keobler

PERU

  • Morgan Gallant

PROSPECT HARBOR

  • Jessika Bridges

RUMFORD

  • Kaiya Martin

SHAPLEIGH

  • Whitney Cass

SOLON

  • Cooper Dellarma

SOUTH PARIS

  • Ashlee Gay

STETSON

  • Tyra Graham

THORNDIKE

  • Autumn Fletcher

TOPSHAM

  • Marybeth Cobb

TURNER

  • Cierra Jordan

WALDOBORO

  • Kelsey Kalbacher

WASHINGTON

  • Bailey McCaffery

WESTBROOK

  • Grace Berks

WHITING

  • Parker Robertson

WILLSBORO

  • Jenna Stainken

WINDHAM

  • Payton Thorpe

WINN

  • Andrew Scott
  • Alan Sullivan

WINSLOW

  • Beatrice Colman
  • Cameron Lavallee

WOOLWICH

  • Tracy Regan

U.S. STUDENTS

PAGO PAGO, AS

  • Athenia Laupola

SIERRA VISTA, AZ

  • Erik Koehler

CERES, CA

  • Afomachukwu Odinukwe

FRESNO, CA

  • Aman Lnu

LEMOORE, CA

  • Deandre Johnson
  • Donovan Johnson

LIVERMORE, CA

  • Mathieu Rocheleau

LOS ANGELES, CA

  • Rebekah Sanchez

SACRAMENTO, CA

  • Jai-Elijah Cook

SAN DIEGO, CA

  • Branden Erb

SAN JOSE, CA

  • Sania Brar

SAN RAMON, CA

  • Jerry Andre

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO

  • Kyland Pacheco

LAUREL, DE

  • Taherra Smith

NAPLES, FL

  • Taylor Shook

MARIETTA, GA

  • Favour Ozowara-Okoro

CHICAGO, IL

  • Darren Shower

LOUISVILLE, KY

  • Okechukwu Anaje

GROVELAND, MA

  • Tyler Lewis

VINEYARD HAVEN, MA

  • Isabel Robertson

LIBERTY, MS

  • Sheila Bonaventure-Larson

APEX, NC

  • Adamaris Anorve-Basoria

GOFFSTOWN, NH

  • Austin Dibble

FREEHOLD, NJ

  • Justin Jelliff

SOMERSET, NJ

  • Kamani Haney

LAS VEGAS, NV

  • Laila Esteban
  • Samuel Steele-Williams

BROOKLYN, NY

  • Nesrine Boudjellaba

ROOSEVELT, NY

  • Taisha Florvil

WOODSIDE, NY

  • Chaewook Lee

GRANTS PASS, OR

  • Vincent Palazzolo

MILWAUKIE, OR

  • Harmony Nelson

NORTH PLAINS, OR

  • Janet Adedoyin

PORTLAND, OR

  • Ashley Deveux

COTESVILLE, PA

  • Dejah Morris

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX

  • Angel Solis Anguiano

HOUSTON, TX

  • Nicholas Hinson

KATY, TX

  • Nazeem Khan

SEATTLE, WA

  • Leo Weigand

VANCOUVER, WA

  • Apoiliu Atuaia

INTERNATIONAL

ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA

  • Kiara Ramsay

ST. JOHN’S, ANTIGUA

  • Vernetta Jacobs

TUZLA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

  • Tarik Islamovic

IBIUNA, BRAZIL

  • Andre Carvalho

ST. PAUL, ALBERTA, CANADA

  • Emmanuel Manu

CLAIR, NEW BRUNSWICK, CANADA

  • Abigail Boucher

ST. JOHN’S, NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR, CANADA

  • Saima Khan

GREELY, ONTARIO, CANADA

  • Alessandra Georgostathis

KESWICK, ONTARIO, CANADA

  • Bradley Stoner

SCARBOROUGH, ONTARIO, CANADA

  • Nathan Innes

STAYNER, ONTARIO, CANADA

  • Seth Walker

SHANGHAI, CHINA

  • Lingjuan Sun

FUNZA, CUNDINAMARCA, COLUMBIA

  • Juan Rojas

BALTHAZAR, ST. ANDREW, GRENADA

  • Britney Charles

MT. HORNE, ST. ANDREW, GERNADA

  • Keldonna Jeffery

RIVER ROAD, ST. GEORGE, GRENADA

  • Shaniah Johnson

WOBURN, ST. GEORGE’S GRENADA

  • Javelle Alexander

HERMITAGE, ST. PATRICK, GRENADA

  • Deandra Smith

MT. RICH, ST. PARTRICK, GERNADA

  • Courtney Francis

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

  • Teosha Culzac

MUMBAI, INDIA

  • Om Agarwal

CLARENDON, JAMAICA

  • Javel Barnes
  • Roualdo Wong

DENBIGH, CLARENDON, JAMAICA

  • Romeo Daniels

KINGSTON, JAMAICA

  • Shylah Francis
  • Shadine Rutherford
  • Dreanna Thaw

KINGSTON, SPANISH TOWN, JAMAICA

  • Devonae Lewis

KINGSTON, ST. ANDREW, JAMAICA

  • Christopher McKenzie

KINGSTON, ST. CATHERINE, JAMAICA

  • Dejaunae Lewis

ST. ELIZABETH, JAMAICA

  • Khahera Blake
  • Michael German
  • Jadah-Lee James

BLACK RIVER, ST. ELIZABETH, JAMAICA

  • Kevaun Garwood

PEN HILL, MANCHESTER, JAMAICA

  • Kamoy Brown

MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA

  • Andrei Jonas

PORTLAND, JAMAICA

  • Donnae Douglas

SAVANNA LA MAR, JAMAICA

  • Javel Clarke

WESTMORELAND, JAMAICA

  • Rojaun Dixon
  • Jahmaly Lewis

KOTOR, MONTENEGRO

  • Maksim Vukcevic

CHITWAN, NEPAL

  • Rojina Adhikari

DOHA, QATAR

  • Shimna Muralidharan

OKCHEON, SOUTH KOREA

  • Hye Rim Choi

PROVIDENCIATES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS

  • Stellena Thomas
  • Stellisha Thomas

HORWICH, BOLTON, UNITED KINGDOM

  • George Gilmore

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM

  • Elizaveta Spiridonova

CARACAS, VENEZUELA

  • Daniel Naveda

PART-TIME ACADEMIC RECOGNITION

NO HOMETOWN LISTING

  • Alijah Stone

MAINE STUDENTS: ST. JOHN VALLEY

EAGLE LAKE

  • Kali Roth
  • Michael Nibley

FORT KENT

  • Jill Caron
  • Ajay Chin
  • Brandice Dominguez
  • Sadie Pelletier
  • Cheryl Theriault

FRENCHVILLE

  • Raya Ringuette

MADAWASKA

  • Nicholas Alpeza
  • Breanna Ouellette
  • David Sirois

WALLAGRASS

  • Jack Desjardins
  • Jessica Wishart

MAINE STUDENTS: AROOSTOOK COUNTY

CARIBOU

  • Julia Lajoie

EASTON

  • Danielle Guerrette
  • Courtney Kane

HOULTON

  • Elizabeth Cook

OAKFIELD

  • Peter Martinez

PRESQUE ISLE

  • Chelsea Adams
  • Cristen Cleland
  • Tziporah Lax
  • Shaena Pelletier

WASHBURN

  • Allyson Plummer

MAINE STUDENTS: NOT AROOSTOOK COUNTY

ALBION

  • Vernon Palm

ANDOVER

  • Stacey Fitzmorris
  • Brooke Young

AUBURN

  • Amanda Hubbell
  • Julie Snyder
  • Robert Strout

AUGUSTA

  • Joshua Allarie

BANGOR

  • Katie Prior
  • Kristen Soucy
  • Wendy Whyte

BELFAST

  • Catalina Fernandez Grant

BIDDEFORD

  • Elizabeth Ayotte
  • Samuel Hines

CANAAN

  • Ashley Walz

CAPE ELIZABETH

  • Lauren Cutter
  • Hollie Hayes

CHELSEA

  • Jocelyn Dighton
  • Katie Gagnon
  • Rachael Alexander

CHERRYFIELD

  • Shi Weed

CORINTH

  • Heather Schlipstein

DEER ISLE

  • Thomas Messersmith

DEXTER

  • Suanne Davis

DIXMONT

  • Denise Carroll

DURHAM

  • John Cormier

FAIRFIELD

  • Heather Barnes
  • Tammy DeRaps

FARMINGTON

  • Benjamin Creznic

FREEPORT

  • Sheen Bergeron

GLENBURN

  • Kevin Miller

GORHAM

  • Adrienne Mango

GRAY

  • Brianna Cassavaugh
  • Rachel Mayer

GREENVILLE

  • Eva Patrick

HAMPDEN

  • Sydney Brown
  • Evan Vidas

HIRAM

  • Rachel Kilburn

HOLDEN

  • Makenna Hamm

HOLLIS CENTER

  • Clarissa El-Hajj

HUDSON

  • Stacy Theriault

KENNEBUNKPORT

  • Jamie Ramsey

LEEDS

  • Taylor Sabattis

LEVANT

  • Jessica Murry

LEWISTON

  • Jillian Landa

LIBERTY

  • Erica Shed

LIMERICK

  • Heather Mitchell

LYMAN

  • Jessica Jackman

MILBRIDGE

  • Lanie Brenton

MILLINOCKET

  • Aquiles Lopez

MONMOUTH

  • Sandra Denniston

NEWPORT

  • Olivia Ingram

NORTHPORT

  • Regina Kennedy

NORWAY

  • Emilie Helmer

OLD ORCHARD BEACH

  • Devin Cheetham-Wilmot

OLD TOWN

  • Matthew Pinkham

ORONO

  • Orianna Green

ORRINGTON

  • Kate Hutchins

PALMYRA

  • Mackenzie Newman

PLYMOUTH

  • Melissa Walker

PORTLAND

  • Skylie Bratlett
  • Rebekah Hilt
  • Noel Johnston
  • Heliane Krans

READFIELD

  • Brittany Roberts

RICHMOND

  • Erin Fitzpatrick
  • Lori Libby

SABATTUS

  • Mason Beaudoin
  • Erin Reedy

SACO

  • Michelle Cafferky
  • Andrea Gomez
  • Carolyn Huchings

SANFORD

  • Victoria Capen

SIDNEY

  • Alison Higgins
  • Danielle Horner

SOUTH PORTLAND

  • Leah Berry-Sandelin
  • Corin Cox
  • Diego Howard
  • Senghuo Loem

THOMASTON

  • Baylee Davis

TOPSHAM

  • Taylor Tantingco

UNITY

  • Charles Beller
  • Andrea King

VEAZIE

  • Kayla Humphrey

WARREN

  • Theresa Bruce

WATERVILLE

  • Mikayla Kaufhardt

WESTBROOK

  • Donald Trott

WINDHAM

  • Breanne Brown
  • Keely Dershem
  • Penny Lavallee

WINSLOW

  • Brianne Blaschke
  • Jamie Shaw

WOOLWICH

  • Raeven Bilugan

U.S. STUDENTS

SAN DIEGO, CA

  • Philip Lagattuta
  • Isabella Solda

LAKE WALES, FL

  • Arieyle Baker

NEWNAN, GA

  • Erin Olson

SAVANNAH, GA

  • Natalie Lyle

ATTLEBORO, MA

  • Kelsey Briggs

HANOVER, MA

  • Suzanne Twomey

MIDDLEBORO, MA

  • Hanna Horsman

NATICK, MA

  • Ahson Shuja

PITTSFIELD, MA

  • Axelle Raggi

SAINT PAUL, MN

  • Andrew Brachlow

PETERBOROUGH, NH

  • Christopher Fletcher

PORTSMOUTH, NH

  • McKenzie Akbulak

ALBUQUERQUE, NM

  • Allison Haynes

BALDWIN, NY

  • Rolanda Jean Francois

WOONSOCKET, RI

  • Leaticia Laine

INTERNATIONAL

TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA

  • Brandon Gentles

CEDAR VALLEY DISTRICT, WESTMORELAND, JAMAICA

  • Georgia Burton

2026 Class Top Scholars

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headshots of Valedictorian Michael Nibley and Salutatorian Krista CoffinThe University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) is proud to announce its top academic honorees for the graduating class, celebrating the outstanding accomplishments of Valedictorian Michael Nibley and Salutatorian Krista Coffin.

Being named valedictorian carries personal significance for Nibley.

“The title of valedictorian means a lot to me,” said Nibley. “It is a great reflection of the work that I have done in my four years of college, especially with the challenge of balancing work between several of my classes.”

Nibley credits UMFK’s academic advisors as the cornerstone of his success, noting that their support extended beyond standard course scheduling to actively guiding him toward critical problem-solving resources.

When asked what advice he would pass down to first- and second-year students aiming for similar academic heights, Nibley emphasized resilience.

“My only advice to younger students who hope to achieve similar success is to work hard and never lose sight of their goals,” Nibley shared. “If there is ever work that seems impossible, they should know that by studying, asking for assistance, and working to understand the material, they will be able to finish even the most difficult work in college.”

A major highlight of Nibley’s time at UMFK was his hands-on experiential learning. Over the course of four months, he collaborated with a local community organization to design and build a custom website for the Fort Kent Ecumenical Food Pantry. The extensive project not only solidified his technical web design skills for a future career in web development but also instilled vital real-world lessons in patience, collaboration, and client communication.

Next steps for Nibley include giving back to the community by volunteering at a local museum while preparing to pursue his master’s degree. He credits UMFK with giving him a clear blueprint of what to expect in graduate school through its challenging coursework and career-building projects.

Joining Nibley at the top of the graduating class is Salutatorian Krista Coffin, a nursing graduate whose incredible academic turnaround proves the power of passion and perseverance.

For Coffin, receiving the news was both shocking and deeply validating. Having previously considered herself a traditional “B student” during her first degree program at UMPI in 2015, achieving nearly a 4.0 GPA and the title of salutatorian at UMFK was a hard-fought victory.

“I was pretty shocked when I got the notice because it just shows me that my hard work was noticed,” Coffin shared. “It felt so good to have that!”

Coffin credits Nursing Professor Stacy Thibodeau, NP, as the driving force behind her academic journey. Though intimidating on day one, Thibodeau quickly became a trusted mentor, sounding board, and close friend. “Stacy saw something in me from day one,” Coffin noted. “She always pushed me to be the best I could be. She strives to make sure anyone she teaches leaves feeling prepared, and for me, that’s exactly how I felt when I graduated.”

That preparation has already translated into a rewarding career.

After recently passing the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX), Coffin is currently working as a New Graduate Nurse on the Medical-Surgical (Med-Surg) floor at Northern Light AR Gould Hospital. She credits UMFK’s dedicated faculty and clinical nurses for taking her under their wing and teaching her to maximize every opportunity.

Reflecting on her journey, Coffin urges future students to master time management and pursue what they truly love. She also highly recommends that aspiring nurses work as Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) during school—an experience she found invaluable through AR Gould’s Earn and Learn program, where she transitioned from long-term care to the ICU and Med-Surg floors.

“If you have the opportunity to be a CNA while in nursing school… DO IT!” Coffin advised. “This job taught me to treat the whole patient and not just the diagnosis and symptoms. You can’t teach empathy, but you can learn to look at the bigger picture. Being a CNA turned me into a more prepared and well-rounded nurse.”

“We are incredibly proud of both Michael and Krista for their academic excellence and success,” said UMFK President Deb Hedeen. “They embody the characteristics of grit and determination that so many UMFK Bengals are known for.”

Co-ed Bengal Soccer Camps

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The University of Maine at Fort Kent Athletic Department welcomes young soccer enthusiasts for two Bengal Co-ed Soccer Camps at the Michael Simon Soccer Field, offering players the opportunity to develop their skills in a fun and supportive environment.

The first camp will run from Monday, June 29, through Thursday, July 2, and the second from Monday, July 20, through Thursday, July 23. Registration is open to all students entering grades pre-K through 12.

The cost is $100 per child or $150 per child for families registering for both camps. Sessions for grades pre-K through 8 will be held from 9 to 11 a.m., while sessions for grades 9 through 12 will take place from 5 to 7 p.m.

Sessions will accommodate all skill levels through a week of intense and enjoyable training. The camp will focus on small-sided games to allow players to apply lessons learned to real-game scenarios and to develop a better awareness of the sport.

UMFK coaching staff and collegiate 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.

Participants are asked to bring along cleats, a water bottle, shin guards, and sneakers, in case inclement weather forces the camp indoors.

Additional activities will include a special goalkeeper camp option for all age groups, running concurrently during both weekly blocks (June 29-July 2 and July 20-23) from 5 to 7 p.m. on the Michael Simon Soccer Field.

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 Co-ed Soccer Camp webpage.

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