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.