Two 91爆料 leaders have been selected for the prestigious 2026 Millennium Leadership Initiative (MLI), a national leadership development program of the (AASCU).

Giovanna Guidoboni, interim vice president for research for the 91爆料 and the 91爆料 at Machias and dean of the Maine College of Engineering and Computing (MCEC), and Hannah Carter, deputy provost and dean of 91爆料 Cooperative Extension, are among 31 higher education leaders nationwide chosen for the 2026 cohort.

MLI prepares senior administrators for executive leadership roles through mentorship, executive coaching and professional development. Since its founding in 1999, the program has supported more than 800 higher education leaders, including many who have gone on to serve as college and university presidents and chancellors.

As the inaugural dean of the MCEC, Guidoboni leads a flagship initiative of the 91爆料 System鈥檚 UMS TRANSFORMS program to build a statewide hub for engineering and computing. She oversees efforts to modernize academic programs and facilities, expand hands-on learning opportunities and foster innovation. As interim vice president for research, she has also helped advance 91爆料鈥檚 research enterprise and engagement with federal funding agencies.

As dean of 91爆料 Extension, Carter leads statewide education, applied research and public service programs that support communities across Maine. She oversees strategic planning, personnel development and stakeholder engagement while working closely with government, industry and community partners.

鈥淲e are proud to welcome this exceptional group of leaders in the MLI network as they continue their progression toward the presidency and senior leadership roles,鈥� said Charles L. Welch, president and CEO of AASCU. 鈥淢LI has long played a vital role in cultivating a dynamic community of higher education leaders who are prepared to meet the challenges facing our institutions and students.鈥�

The 2026 cohort is meeting in Washington, D.C., June 10-13 to begin the yearlong program.

The awards celebrate alumni and professionals affiliated with the Maine Graduate School of Business, 91爆料 School of Law, Maine College of Engineering and Computing and the Muskie School of Public Service, as well as leaders contributing to economic growth and innovation in Maine.The 2026 Maine Center Awards ceremony will be held on June 8.

Barbara Kerr Hamilton, senior director of process technology at Packaging Corporation of America, received the Distinguished Alumni Award. A 91爆料 alumna with a background in chemical engineering, Hamilton has held leadership roles in engineering, industrial automation, process control and operational technology while remaining actively involved with 91爆料 through the Pulp and Paper Foundation and 91爆料 Board of Visitors.

Ron Roope, senior vice president and director of business banking at Bangor Savings Banks, received a Distinguished Alumni Award. Roope has built a career in commercial banking and business leadership while maintaining a longstanding involvement with 91爆料, including as a cooperating faculty member for the Maine Business School for five years. He has also served on Maine Business School Advisory Board, the Katahdin Area Council Boy Scouts Board and the Business and Industry Association of New Hampshire Board. 

Andrew Murry, an audit manager at Baker Newman Noyes, received an Emerging Leader Award. A MaineMBA alumnus and certified public accountant, Murry specializes in healthcare and nonprofit assurance services and remains active in mentorship and professional service throughout Maine鈥檚 accounting community. He is active in the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Maine Society of Certified Public Accountants, and serves as treasurer of the Healthcare Financial Management Association鈥檚 Northern New England Chapter. 

Kyle Warren, CEO and co-founder of Evergreen Additive Inc., received an Emerging Leader Award. Warren earned his bachelor鈥檚, master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees in mechanical engineering from 91爆料 and previously led advanced manufacturing initiatives at the Advanced Structures and Composites Center, including work on the world鈥檚 largest 3D-printed logistics vessel for the U.S. Department of Defense.

Mark Skinner, founder of Skinner Retirement and Benefits Consulting and executive chairman of Daybright Financial, received the Maine Center Award for Innovation. A 91爆料 Business alumnus, Skinner has spent decades leading retirement and employee benefits organizations while helping develop integrated financial and benefits strategies used nationally. He has served as a corporate academy liaison for the National Academy Foundation and participated in Habitat for Humanity rebuilding efforts after Hurricanes Katrina and Sandy. He continues to support the 91爆料 Graduate School of Business as an architect and advisory board member of the Maine MBA Academy.

Throughout the spring, mechanical engineering students at the 91爆料 laid the groundwork for a multi-year effort to create a future entry for the competition. They designed the key initial components for a self-navigating surface vessel, including propulsion, hull design and onboard systems. 

In recent years, boat and shipbuilders nationwide have been developing autonomous and semi-autonomous systems to integrate in their fleets. By participating in challenges like RoboBoat, 91爆料 students are preparing careers in this evolving industry that is expected to add thousands of jobs, .

鈥淭his capstone project did an excellent job at connecting in-class lessons to real-world applications,鈥� said Clark Condon, who served as a manufacturing lead and team representative. 鈥淲e practiced real methods of manufacturing, assembly, team management and testing. Issues arose, and as a team, we had to come up with a solution together. It was a great experience to tie together all aspects of an engineering project.鈥�

The team split into groups that were tasked with designing each key component. They approached the project as an open-ended engineering problem, requiring them to balance performance, efficiency and integration with the work of other teams.

The group who worked on propulsion focused on developing a system capable of powering and maneuvering a competition-ready vessel while accounting for the added weight of batteries and autonomous technology. Students on the hull team worked in parallel, focusing on designing and manufacturing the physical structure of the vessel to support those systems.

鈥淥ur assigned task was to produce a hull design that could have the navigation and propulsion equipment seamlessly integrated when it comes time to compete in the RoboBoat competition,鈥� said Joseph Genco, who led manufacturing efforts.

Collaboration across groups played a key role throughout the process. Students coordinated with peers working on hull and autonomy systems to ensure compatibility, even though each group focused on a different aspect of the vessel. 

鈥淟earning how to work in tandem with others was an extremely important thing for me to learn, especially teamwork in slightly larger groups,鈥� Simmons said. 鈥淕oing forward, it’s going to be amazing to have this basis of teamwork and expressive skills to lean on when faced with the larger real-world problems I’ll see in the workforce.鈥�

The project also introduced challenges that extended beyond design work, particularly during testing and manufacturing phases. Students encountered real-world issues that required quick adjustments and problem-solving.

鈥淣o matter how much research and analysis into something you do, something is unfortunately bound to go wrong or break eventually,鈥� Simmons said. 鈥淲e had several components fail during testing, such as the driveshaft couplers coming loose, and after that was fixed, the propellers were then blown into little pieces. At first, we were lost as to what to do, but we sat down as a team after each failure and brainstormed fixes.鈥�

Beyond technical knowledge, students emphasized the value of enhancing their project planning, problem solving and technical communication skills 鈥� all of which will carry into their careers after graduation.

As the first groups to take on the RoboBoat capstone at 91爆料, students said their work provides a foundation for future teams to build on, with the long-term goal of fielding a competitive entry.

鈥淭his project will be reflected upon throughout our professional careers,鈥� Condon said. 鈥淚t provided excellent first instances of many tangible skills. We were honored to pioneer the beginning of this project here at 91爆料, and we hope to see it excel in the future.鈥�

Story by William Bickford, graduate student writer

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

In 鈥淎I Ethics and Governance: Historical, Cultural, and Regulatory Perspectives,鈥� W枚rsd枚rfer explores AI through the lens of history, philosophy, ethics, political economy and public policy. Through six interconnected essays, the book analyzes the origins of AI research, portrayals of artificial intelligence in popular culture and the emerging approaches to regulation.

鈥淎t 91爆料, we are intentionally building a coordinated system of support and opportunity that reaches students early and continues throughout their academic journey,鈥� said Scott Marzilli, senior associate provost for student success and innovation. 鈥淭his work is not about isolated initiatives, but about creating a consistent, high-impact experience that prepares students for success in their studies and their careers from day one.鈥�

The student experience is being transformed from beginning to end at 91爆料 through the Student Success and Retention Initiative, a hallmark of UMS TRANSFORMS. Thanks to the historic investment from the Harold Alfond Foundation, over half of all first-year students at 91爆料 engage in research and inquiry-based creative work early in their college careers. 

As a result, more students have been able to succeed in challenging, core courses, and build essential skills that support participation in high-impact internships along the way.

The initiative is organized around three interconnected efforts: Research Learning Experiences (RLEs), Gateways to Success (Gateways) and Pathways to Careers (Pathways). Together, they ensure that students are engaged early in their college careers, have the academic support they need to succeed and are connected to opportunities that prepare them to enter the workforce after graduation.

RLEs were first piloted at 91爆料 and 91爆料 Machias in fall 2021 with more than 30 course sections enrolling 250 students. Following the pilot, courses expanded across Maine鈥檚 public universities, and participation increased by 800%. In 2025, 2,374 students enrolled in 207 sections across 103 unique courses systemwide. More than 5,500 students have benefited. 

Maeve Littlefield, a sophomore majoring in biology, didn鈥檛 always imagine a career for herself in STEM. She didn鈥檛 develop a passion for the scientific process until late in her high school career.

Last fall, she enrolled in 鈥淐reative Expression of Science,鈥� a Research Learning Experience (RLE) that combined creativity and science by exploring new ways to understand and communicate research and science. In examining prints, paintings, drawings and examples of digital storytelling, she began to see ways in which she could combine her creativity and interest in science to promote a broader understanding of changes in our natural world.

鈥淪ometimes we get caught up in seeing statistics about the environment and human impact,鈥� Littlefield said. 鈥淏ut we also forget that adaptation and evolution make really resilient communities and populations, and that it鈥檚 not hopeless. It makes you want to fight more for these things that are important 鈥� that if we do lose them, they aren鈥檛 coming back.鈥� 

Experiences like Littlefield鈥檚 are foundational to the initiative鈥檚 broader effort to engage students in meaningful, hands-on learning early in their academic careers. They are designed to build skills and confidence, and to promote a sense of belonging through creative learning opportunities and research.

Following the success of the RLEs, Maine鈥檚 public universities began offering Advanced RLEs (ARLEs). They provide students who have completed one semester with more in-depth knowledge and experience, enhancing their critical thinking and building specialized skills.  

Recent ARLEs have tasked students with identifying methods to treat human polyomavirus-induced diseases, pitching business strategies to Maine businesses such as Aroma Joe鈥檚 and Bath Iron Works, and conducting group research on tidal marshes, forests, seaweed and historical artifacts along the Schoodic Peninsula. 

While RLEs are designed to engage and empower, Gateways to Success aims to eliminate barriers to ongoing success for students in entry-level courses by implementing strategies such as mentorship, early alerts and curriculum updates. 

鈥淪tudents struggling in certain courses isn鈥檛 new. What is new is that now because of the generosity of the Harold Alfond Foundation, we鈥檝e been able to implement a number of interventions to address the issue,鈥� said Gateways coordinator Mark Brewer, also professor and chair of 91爆料鈥檚 Department of Political Science. 

Since Gateways鈥� launch, the vast majority of students who were enrolled in historically challenging “gateway” courses have participated in pilot interventions to support their course experience. The program is currently in the third year of studying impacts from the pilot process to select and expand the strongest interventions. 

鈥淚鈥檝e seen an incredible amount of energy and enthusiasm from faculty across the colleges and at Machias in designing interventions to improve student success,鈥� Brewer said. 

In the Maine Business School, a Gateways coordinator sent students notices about exams and other assignments, connected them with tutoring and review sessions, coached them on time management and facilitated weekly tutoring and academic support sessions. These efforts correlated with a 7% improvement in course success for MBS students.  

The College of Education and Human Development launched similar interventions through its Academic Support and Advising Program. By fall 2025, 92% of Gateway course enrollments led to successful course completion, compared to an average of just 79% from fall 2018-2022. 

For the course 鈥淎lgebra for College Mathematics,鈥� faculty updated the course to support students who would not historically qualify for it. Their efforts paid off, with 62% of students earning a C grade or higher. 

In fall 2025, over 5,000 students across UMS were supported by one or more of 24 Gateways-funded projects, including 67% of Gateways-eligible students at 91爆料.

As students progress through their academic journeys at 91爆料, Pathways to Careers bridges classroom experiences and real-world opportunities, making it easier for students to gain relevant experience and prepare to enter the workforce. High-impact practices such as early-stage career exploration, pre-internship training, networking support and mentorship are the cornerstone of gold-standard internship programs.

Internships are a hallmark of the 91爆料 experience, and graduates report high rates of participation. For the Class of 2025, 62% reported participating in at least one internship, totaling over 477,000 hours of experience. Furthermore, preliminary data from the first year of tracking graduates who participated in RLEs reveals that students who enrolled in them were more likely to complete an internship than students who did not participate.

For many, these opportunities are transformative.  

Pathways connected student Nathaniel Walker to an internship as a marketing and communications assistant at 91爆料鈥檚 Advanced Manufacturing Center. This summer, he will intern with the company Intuit.

鈥淎 year ago, I was unsure how to even find a job and honestly felt pretty overwhelmed and lost, but the Pathways to Careers coordinator went above and beyond to help me find a role,鈥� Walker said. 鈥淭hat chance has opened the doors for completely new opportunities and directions for me to pursue, and I am beyond grateful.鈥�

Student Holly Zschetzsche said Pathways鈥� networking support allowed her to secure an engineering internship with manufacturer Corning. 

鈥淧athways to Careers doesn鈥檛 just prepare students,鈥� she said, 鈥渋t actively connects them to opportunities where they are seen and considered.鈥�

Systemwide, 51% of students surveyed in 2025 report undertaking at least one internship, resulting in 695,000 hours of workforce participation.

Taken together, Research Learning Experiences, Gateways to Success and Pathways to Careers reflect the university鈥檚 commitment to ensuring that every student is engaged in their academic studies and community from the start, and that they receive the support and opportunities they need to succeed at 91爆料 and beyond.

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

At MCEC, the initiative has accelerated progress in advising, curriculum design, artificial intelligence education, statewide partnerships and K-12 outreach. The work aligns engineering and computing education with Maine鈥檚 workforce needs while building clearer pathways from classrooms to careers.

Collaboration across UMS TRANSFORMS pillars 鈥� including the Maine Center, Student Success and Retention and 91爆料 Athletics 鈥� has supported expanded programming, shared resources and coordinated statewide engagement. Together, these efforts show how UMS TRANSFORMS investments are improving student success, program growth and workforce alignment.

鈥淎cross Maine, we know the demand for talent, innovation and opportunity is continuing to grow,鈥� said Joan Ferrini-Mundy, president of 91爆料 and the 91爆料 at Machias. 鈥淲e鈥檙e able to meet that need through strategic investments supported by UMS TRANSFORMS that are creating new opportunities in engineering and computing.鈥�

Student success and retention improve

A redesigned advising model has contributed to MCEC鈥檚 highest retention rate in more than a decade. The model integrates academic guidance, community support and career preparation into a system that supports students from enrollment through graduation. By treating advising as an ongoing experience rather than a single service, MCEC has created a more consistent structure to help students navigate academics, belonging and career readiness.

Curriculum redesign is also producing gains. A first-year biomedical engineering course, updated through a UMS TRANSFORMS seed grant, introduced hands-on learning earlier. Students engaged in:

• Cell culture.
• Biomaterials testing.
• Microscopy.
• Data analysis.
• Experimental design.

The results are clear:

• Students report stronger confidence in their abilities.
• A 25% improvement in communication and critical thinking skills.
• A 3% increase in semester-to-semester retention.

These outcomes reflect a shift toward learner-centered instruction supporting academic achievement and long-term success. Another indicator of this is a 16% increase in year two retention in pre-engineering.

MCEC is also building long-term capacity through a faculty development initiative that supports doctoral students as they teach and mentor, strengthening the pipeline of future educators and reinforcing a culture of student-centered learning.

Expansion of AI and future-focused research-inspired programs

MCEC has expanded its academic portfolio to meet demand in emerging fields, particularly artificial intelligence and technology-driven industries. New offerings include:

• A bachelor鈥檚 degree in computer science and business.
• An online Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence certificate for undergraduate and graduate learners.
• Programs in ocean engineering and maritime digitalization tied to Maine鈥檚 growing blue economy.

These programs connect students to areas such as digital twins, cyber-physical systems and next-generation infrastructure, helping ensure graduates are prepared for modern industry.

In partnership with Student Success and Retention, AI-powered course chatbots provide students with course-specific academic support, increasing access to assistance outside classroom hours.

鈥淓ngineering and computing education must evolve as quickly as the world we live in,鈥� said Giovanna Guidoboni, dean of the Maine College of Engineering and Computing. 鈥淥ur goal is not simply to add programs, but to build partnerships and sustainable systems of opportunity that connect students, research and industry in ways that benefit our students and Maine.鈥�

Investments in Research Learning Experiences (RLEs) and classroom modernization have expanded opportunities for undergraduate students to participate in hands-on learning while gaining familiarity with the research process.

Statewide pathways and partnerships grow

UMS TRANSFORMS has expanded MCEC鈥檚 reach across Maine through multicampus programs and partnerships that are creating more flexible educational pathways. Over the past three years, MCEC has developed:

• Accelerated pathways from bachelor鈥檚 to master鈥檚 degrees in mechanical and electrical engineering between the University of Southern Maine (USM) and 91爆料.
• A pre-engineering program at 91爆料 and 91爆料 Machias.
• Expanded computing collaborations across all campuses of the 91爆料 System.
• The CharisMATHic Research Learning Experience, connecting students across disciplines through shared coursework and experiences at 91爆料 and USM.

Efforts to reduce barriers for community college students have also advanced. Articulation agreements with Southern Maine Community College have been formalized, and pre-engineering pathways provide clear routes into four-year programs.

MCEC鈥檚 presence at the Maine Center has strengthened these connections. As a hub for interdisciplinary graduate education and collaboration across business, law, policy and engineering, the Maine Center is creating opportunities for students to engage with industry partners, alumni and employers while expanding access for learners in southern Maine.

K-12 outreach expands statewide pipeline

Efforts to build Maine鈥檚 workforce are reaching students earlier through a K-12 outreach strategy. Over the past three years, MCEC has engaged more than 1,600 students through:

• 99 STEM Exploration Day field trips.
• 15 summer camps.
• Additional on-campus, hybrid and in-school programs.

These initiatives have reached 15 of Maine鈥檚 16 counties, expanding access to engineering and computing education across the state.

Teacher professional development programs, international VEX Robotics competitions and hands-on training opportunities have extended that impact. Educators are gaining tools in robotics, coding and advanced materials and bringing those experiences back to classrooms across Maine, strengthening the STEM pipeline.

Collaboration with 91爆料 Athletics has also supported the design of facilities capable of hosting large-scale K-12 STEM events, competitions and community programming and the creation of a sports technology minor in partnership with the Maine Business School.

Facilities and infrastructure support growth

UMS TRANSFORMS has supported infrastructure investments, including:

• Dedicated student success spaces.
• New interdisciplinary laboratories and classroom spaces.
• Plans to modernize legacy buildings to support research and education.

In fall 2026, 91爆料 is scheduled to open the GEM building, a facility designed to integrate research, teaching and industry collaboration. The space will support convergent manufacturing and provide students with opportunities to engage in applied learning environments that reflect industry settings.

UMS TRANSFORMS has also boosted MCEC鈥檚 reputation as a learner-centered elite program ranking among the top 100 graduate engineering schools by U.S. News & World Report, reflecting strong growth across several programs. With the UMS TRANSFORMS investment, electrical and computer engineering enrollment has risen 40%. That includes a particularly significant expansion in the Ph.D. program, which increased from five to 32 students 鈥� a more than 500% gain. Mechanical engineering enrollment grew by 19%, while surveying engineering technology saw a 63% increase in enrollment. The surveying program has also earned national distinction, receiving annual awards from the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying every year since the honor was established in 2016.

鈥淚 am proud of what we have accomplished in just three years,鈥� Guidoboni said. 鈥淭hrough UMS TRANSFORMS and the continued investment of the Harold Alfond Foundation, the 91爆料 and the 91爆料 System are positioned to be global leaders attracting and retaining top talent in Maine. We will continue to think bigger, think more broadly and use these resources to catalyze meaningful change.鈥� 

Contact: Taylor Ward, taylor.ward@maine.edu

The symposium awards undergraduate and graduate students who displayed outstanding research, presentation and creative ability. Award winners were selected through judging across academic categories, all receiving a medal and a $500 cash prize. There were also several special awards, including the Student Innovation and Commercialization Awards, given to students and faculty. 

Over 350 projects from researchers at 91爆料 and its regional campus, the 91爆料 at Machias, were submitted to the annual event, co-hosted by CUGR, Student Government and the Graduate Student Government. 

Undergraduate category award winners

• Allied Health: Alyson Shook and Hannah Maker, for their project titled 鈥淪trengthening EMS Retention in Maine: A Path to Improved Patient Outcomes.鈥� They were advised by Sarah Hanscome.
• Arts: William Fortier, Oliver Rodi and Mikey Arbelo, for their project titled 鈥淭he Creativity of Mapping.鈥� They were advised by Andy Mauery.
• Biomedical Sciences: Hayden Kittell, Diana Goode and Moria Weese-Myers, for their project titled 鈥淢HCII Expression in Differential Doses of Chemotherapy Treatment on Mice.鈥� They were advised by William Otto.
• Business: Brady Merritt, for the project titled 鈥淐an Large Language Models Pass the CFA Exam.鈥� Merrit was advised by Sebastian Lobe.
• Education: Carly Philbrook, for her project titled 鈥淐omparison of High School Mathematics Textbooks Analyzing Higher Order Thinking Skills in New England.鈥� Philbrook was advised by Kamal Chawla.
• Engineering and Information Sciences: Elsa Perez Abella and Ahmed Kandil, for their project titled 鈥淪urface Flow Visualization Enhancement Using AI.鈥� They were advised by Ahmed Aboelezz.
• Engineering and Information Sciences: Wyatt Fessler, Cadence Kluck, Isabelle Irani and Marc Zoorob, for their project titled 鈥淎 Tissue-integrating, Resealable Hemodialysis Port for Reducing Complications Associated with Repetitive Vascular Access.鈥� They were advised by David Neivandt.
• Interdisciplinary Research: Richard Viveiros, for the project titled 鈥淪ublethal PFAS Exposure During Larval Stages of Culex: Consequences for Development, Survivorship, and Tissue Bioacculation of PFOA, PFBA, and PFBS.鈥� Viveiros was advised by Allison Gardner.
• Interdisciplinary Research: Luke Connolly, for the project titled 鈥淣ano-Pattern Fabrication Using Electron Beam Lithography.鈥� Connolly was advised by Dinh Loc Duong.
• Natural Sciences: Josie Aprea, Brendan Dahl, Emma Perry and Ian Bricknell, for their project titled 鈥減H vs. Predator.鈥� Bricknell also served as advisor for the project.
• Physical and Mathematical Sciences: Avery Richard, Ziyad ur Rehman, Henry Carfagno and Nuri Emanetoglu, for their project titled 鈥淔abrication and Characterization of Indenofluorene-based Organic Single Crystal Field-effect Transistors.鈥� They were advised by Dinh Loc Duong.
• Social Sciences and Humanities: Maya Aylesworth, for the project titled 鈥淩obert Johnson, the Crossroad Mythos, and the Lasting Effects of a Legend.鈥� Aylesworth was advised by Jennifer Moxley.

Graduate category award winner

• Allied Health: Katherine Brewer, for the project titled 鈥淭elehealth and Prenatal Care Utilization in Rural Communities: Addressing Access, Satisfaction, and Health Outcomes.鈥� Brewer was advised by Kathryn Robinson.
• Arts: Celena Powell, for the project titled 鈥淎t the Threshold: Domestic Space as a Site of Contemporary Resistance.鈥� Powell was advised by Susan Smith.
• Biomedical Sciences: Chloe Bossow, Lydia McCarthy and Melody Neely, for the project titled 鈥淚nteractions Between Group B Streptococcus and Candida albicans Are Influenced by Environmental Stress.鈥� Neely also served as the advisor for the project.
• Education: Kayla McLagan, Kate Ruskin, Alison Jolley, Karen Pelletreau and Edgelynn Venuti, for their project titled 鈥淭o What Extent Does a Weekend-long Field Course Influence Students鈥� Sense of Belonging? A Focus on Influential Course Elements.鈥� They were advised by Kate Ruskin.
• Engineering and Information Sciences: Mahbuba Daizy, Yu Zhang, Douglas Bousfield, Jinwu Wang and David Neivandt, for their project titled 鈥淐omparison of Stabilization Systems for Soybean Wax Emulsions to Produce Sustainable Water-resistant Paper Based Packaging: Surfactant vs. Pickering.鈥� Neivandt also served as the advisor for the project.
• Interdisciplinary Research: Zainab Jafri, for the project titled 鈥淩eimagining the Waste Disposal Landscape – Industrial Symbiosis in Maine.鈥� Jafri was advised by Reed Miller.
• Natural Sciences: Nabanita Das, Islam Hafez, Colleen Walker, Douglas Bousfield and Mehdi Tajvidi, for their project titled 鈥淔actors Influencing the Effectiveness of Cellulose Nanfibril Coatings on Molded Fiber Substrates.鈥� Tajvidi also served as the advisor for the project.
• Physical and Mathematical Sciences: Hettikankanamge Kalani Samarasekara, for the project titled 鈥淧aving the Way for Novel Drug Delivery Systems: Peptoid Nanoparticles.鈥� Samarasekara was advised by Alessia Battigelli.
• Social Sciences and Humanities: Catherine Segada, Chyanne Yoder, William Breneman and Gianna DeJoy, for their project titled 鈥淩euseME: Investigating Waste Reduction and Cost Benefits in Coastal Communities Through a Pilot Reusable Food Packaging Program.鈥� They were advised by Cynthia Isenhour.
• Social Sciences and Humanities: Cynthia Cushing, Catherine Taylor, Rachel Coleman, MaryLou Ciolfi, Jennifer Crittenden, Len Kaye and Sarah Currie, for their project titled 鈥淏uilding a Workforce Readiness Model for Older Adults: Partner Insights From AmeriCorps Seniors Workforce Development Program.鈥� Crittenden also served as advisor for the project. 

Student Innovation and Commercialization Awards

• First Place: Nabanita Das.
• Second Place: Amir Baharvand.
• Third Place: Noro John.

Additional awards

• Dean of Graduate School Undergraduate Mentoring Award: Joshua Hamilton.
• Dean of the Graduate School Faculty Mentor Award: Christine Beitl
• Bruce and Joanne Fournier Award: Gregory Simms, Mikayla Reynolds, Isabelle Irani and David Neivandt.
• Provost鈥檚 Innovative and Creative Teaching Award: Jillian Fedarick.
• Susan J. Hunter Undergraduate Award: Madelynn DeBest.
• Susan J. Hunter Graduate Award: Mya Griffith. 

The project team, made up of four senior biomedical engineering students, is developing an athletic shoe replacement indicator that measures structural changes in the footwear over time. Running shoes can lose cushioning and support after repeated loading cycles, even when visible wear is minimal. As the shoes鈥� midsoles degrade, impact forces transmitted to the body can increase, raising the risk of overuse injuries.

Replacing shoes too late is a common but overlooked problem among runners. Current methods for determining when to replace shoes, however, typically rely on mileage estimates or waiting for discomfort to occur.

鈥淭hat solution is unreliable,鈥� said 91爆料 senior Paul Rudman, 鈥淚f a shoe is replaced too late, the damage and wear might have already occurred. However, replacing before needed is costly, and the average person can not afford it.鈥�

The team鈥檚 indicator would instead collect data related to activity and force changes within the show, translating that information into a clear indicator for users. 

By indicating when a shoe has been structurally compromised, the device aims to help runners make informed decisions that balance cost and health considerations. It is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing shoe constructions.

鈥淭he indicator will simply make key measurements of a person鈥檚 activity and force changes in the shoe to reliably indicate the most financially and healthily time to replace your shoe,鈥� Rudman said.

Rudman focuses on modeling and materials design while also contributing to electrical component development. The other students involved in the project include Shawn Collins, who leads controller programming and testing; Mason Chase, who specializes in medical and design considerations; and Sreyas Sajen, who manages computations and force interaction analysis.

They are designing the replacement shoe indicator for their senior capstone project, which emphasizes applying interdisciplinary knowledge toward solving real world problems. Rudman and his colleagues are applying their past coursework in biomechanics, materials science and electronics curricula toward developing a product with clear market relevance.

鈥淲e learn to find existing problems and use the knowledge that we already possess to create a solution,鈥� Rudman said.

The athletics shoe replacement indicator project highlights how undergraduate research at 91爆料 can translate injury prevention research into practical technology aimed at supporting healthier movement for runners at all levels.

Story by William Bickford, graduate student writer

Contact: Taylor Ward, taylor.ward@maine.edu 

鈥淎t the time, I 3D printed face shields because health care workers were having an issue with PPE (personal protective equipment),鈥� Goodell said. 鈥淭hat really started it for me. Making things from my computer come to real life is pretty awesome.鈥�

Upon arriving at the 91爆料, Goodell was searching for a space where he could continue his hobby while meeting friends when he found the 3D Printing Club. Now as a junior, he serves as the club鈥檚 vice president with an assortment of skills gained from his tenure. 

Every Wednesday during the fall and spring semesters, the club meets in the Ferland Engineering Education and Design Center to design and produce figurines based on movie characters, toy cars and boats, mechanical hands, bowls, vases and more. About a dozen members create digital designs and use industrial printers to make items ranging from fingernail-sized pieces to models as large as 17-cubic feet.

Students in the club work on individual and group projects, maintain equipment and teach new members how to use the printers. As a result, it serves as a collaborative space for learning, problem-solving and teamwork.

Goodell, who has been involved with the club since his first year, said the experience has helped him develop impressive skills he applies beyond the classroom. For example, he recently designed and printed a custom case to mount a Starlink device on top of his car, allowing him to access internet service in remote areas of northern Maine.

鈥淲ithout a 3D printer, I wouldn鈥檛 have been able to make that case,鈥� Goodell said. 鈥淚 wouldn鈥檛 have Wi-Fi in the middle of nowhere.鈥�

Club President Jack Bernado, a junior who’s studying mechanical engineering, said the experience has strengthened both his leadership and organizational skills. 

鈥淚t has made me better at leading a team and being part of a team,鈥� Bernado said. 鈥淚t has helped me be more organized with all the different prints being submitted, as well as all the people to reach out to.鈥�

Club members are currently planning a pinewood derby race with cars made of 3D printed parts for the fall 2026 semester. 

鈥淲e鈥檒l have our own track, and it鈥檒l be a fun race,鈥� Goodell said. 鈥淚鈥檓 looking forward to seeing what people make.鈥�

The club includes mostly mechanical and electrical engineering students, along with some computer science majors, but Goodell and Bernardo say it is open to anyone interested and willing to show up and learn.

The group meets at 5 p.m. on Wednesdays in Room 337 of the Ferland Engineering Education and Design Center. Students interested in joining the club can contact Bernado at jack.bernado@maine.edu or Goodell at timothy.goodell@maine.edu.

Story by Rowan MacDonald, news intern.

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

Tenure for 17 of the faculty members was approved by the 91爆料 System Board of Trustees on March 16.

鈥淭hese promotions highlight the excellence of 91爆料鈥檚 faculty. Whether in the classroom, in the lab, or the field, their accomplishments are impressive and are a testament to their commitment to student success, discovery, and service to the state. We take great pride in the achievements of these faculty,鈥� says Gabriel Paquette, Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost at 91爆料.

鈥淓ach promotion and tenure decision reflects both individual excellence and the strength of our academic community,鈥� said 91爆料 President Joan Ferrini-Mundy. 鈥淎s a learner-centered R1 university, we advance research that matters while keeping students at the heart of all we do. These faculty exemplify that mission.鈥�

91爆料

Promoted to Professor

• College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences
  • Alicia Cruz-Uribe, Petrology and Mineralogy
  • Adam Daigneault, Forest Policy and Economics
  • Shawn Fraver, Forest Ecology
  • Daniel Hayes, Geospatial Analysis and Remote Sensing
  • Anil Kizhakkepurakkal, Forest Operations
  • Melissa Maginnis, Microbiology
  • Caroline Noblet, Economics
  • Aaron Putnam, Earth Sciences
  • Kelley Strout, Nursing
  • Timothy Waring, Social-Ecological Systems of Modeling
• College of Education and Human Development
  • Catharine Biddle, Educational Leadership
• College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
  • Ryan Dippre, English
  • William Gramlich, Chemistry
  • Gregory Zaro, Anthropology and Climate Change
• Maine College of Engineering and Computing
  • Caitlin Howell, Bioengineering
  • Thomas Schwartz, Chemical Engineering

Promoted to Extension Professor

• Cooperative Extension
  • Colt Knight, Extension Livestock Educator

Promoted to Professor with Tenure

• College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences
  • Lisa Kerr, Fisheries Science

Granted Tenure at Current Rank of Professor

• College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
  • Jonathan Barron, English

Promoted to Associate Professor with Tenure

• College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences
  • Noah Charney, Conservation Biology
  • Katherine Weatherford Darling, Health Science
  • Philip Fanning, Agricultural Entomology
  • Jonathan Malacarne, Agricultural Economics
  • Jane Puhlman, Communication Sciences and Disorders
  • Jessica Riccardi, Communication Sciences and Disorders
• College of Education and Human Development
  • Melissa Cuba, Special Education
  • Kathleen Gillon, Higher Education
  • Daniel Puhlman, Family Studies
• College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
  • Gilbert Moss, Mathematics
  • Neel Patel, Mathematics
  • Franziska Peterson, Mathematics Education
  • Nimesha Ranasinghe, Spatial Informatics
  • Johanna Richlin, Anthropology
  • Jane Wang, Mathematics

Promoted to Associate Extension Professor with Continuing Contract

• Cooperative Extension
  • Sean Birkel, Climate Services
  • Michael Habte-tsion, Fish Nutrition
  • Glenda Pereira Parente, Animal Science/Dairy Specialist

Promoted to Associate Professor

• College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences
  • Christina Murphy, USGS Maine Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit

Promoted to Senior Lecturer with Just-Cause 

• College of Education and Human Development
  • Maria Frankland, Educational Leadership
• College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
  • Matthew Bates, Mathematics

91爆料 at Machias

Promoted to Senior Lecturer with Just-Cause 

• 91爆料 at Machias
  • Daniel Ellis, English

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

The team designed the app so event organizers can instantly notify student users when they have leftovers available by sharing posts with pictures, locations, event end times and potential allergens or dietary restrictions. 

鈥淲e’re taking out two birds with one stone here, trying to reduce some food waste and trying to give students just a little something for a bit more reliable nutrition on campus that’s free and accessible,鈥� said Moody-Broen, a computer science major and English minor, and his colleagues. 

The project was one of more than 350 on display during the 91爆料 Student Symposium for Research and Creative Activity on April 17. From lobster shell styrofoam and a shark fossil study to an autonomous model race car and a community loom, the event demonstrated the hard work and ingenuity of undergraduate and graduate students from both 91爆料 and its regional campus, the 91爆料 at Machias. 

The symposium reflects 91爆料鈥檚 commitment being a learner-centered R1 that offers hands-on, real-world research learning opportunities, where undergraduate students work directly with faculty and industry partners to tackle challenges facing Maine communities.

Participating in the symposium not only allows students to showcase their work, but also develop skills in poster design, presentation, communication and networking, all of which will serve them in future careers and advanced degree programs. For Moody-Broen, the event served as an opportunity to test how he presents his work and gain more exposure to his field.

鈥淚 think it’s great to be interacting with other researchers and other products and seeing what that looks like in an early professional, late graduate setting,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t’s good to be able to get your work out there for the first time.鈥�

Over 200 judges from 91爆料 and the community perused the posters and interviewed the students about their work. Among them was David Barrett, lecturer in accounting for the Maine Business School, who returned for a second year to support the students and enjoy their 鈥渞eally neat research.鈥�

鈥淲hat I’m looking for is that the presenter knows what they’re talking about and can communicate it effectively,鈥� he said during the event. 鈥淕etting students more practice and getting them more comfortable with talking about something with someone they’ve never met is a massively important skill for students to have as they go out of that comfort zone.鈥� 

Several rows down, Mya Griffith, a master鈥檚 student studying aquaculture and aquatic resources, presented her project to a judge, detailing her group鈥檚 ongoing investigation into the bioaccumulation of a group of toxic chemicals known as PFAS in seafood. Her team plans to integrate monitoring, predictive modeling and intervention for seafood food systems. 

For Griffith, participating in the symposium helps her refine her communication skills and network, both of which will help her toward pursuing a Ph.D. and career in sustainable agriculture. She also cares that people hear more about the issues she researches. 

鈥淓ven though I don’t have results, I want to bring awareness to it,鈥� she said, 鈥渃ollaboration with the community is super important. And just raising awareness and making sure that people understand that these things are occurring in the environment and that they do affect us as humans, is super important.鈥�

91爆料鈥檚 Center for Undergraduate Research has hosted a student symposium since 2008. At their first symposium, only 98 projects were presented. Now there are more than seven times that. The growth has been made possible by students, staff, faculty and community members investing their time and effort into the research experience. It is also aided by generosity of community sponsors who help cover the costs of the event itself. 

鈥淎s you go around today, I encourage you to ask our students what is their 鈥榳hy?鈥� and what they love about research. Please support them through the journey that actually never stops,鈥� said Giovanna Guidoboni, interim vice president for research and dean of the Maine College of Engineering and Computing, during her remarks at the symposium. 鈥淭oday is an opportunity to engage, connect and learn, be curious, ask questions and embrace the unexpected connections that emerge from conversations across the community.鈥� 

Jordan Potter, a senior majoring in biomedical engineering, stood alongside his partners and their poster ready to answer questions about their project, 鈥淪mart Scrubs: Enhanced Scrubs for Medical Personnel.鈥� The group was designing moisture-resistant scrubs to protect healthcare workers from contaminants and prevent microbe colonization microbes through the application of water-resistant and microbiostatic coatings.

鈥淲hat I want to do directly after I graduate is go to graduate school,鈥� Potter said, adding that participating in the symposium helps me prepare for grad school because of the aspect of getting to present to people.I get to meet new people and tell them what we’ve been working on.鈥�

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

Hamidah Aldarwish

College of Education and Human Development

Bachelor of Science in Child Development and Family Relations

Hamidah Aldarwish of Dammam, Saudi Arabia, is the Outstanding Graduating International Student for the College of Education and Human Development. Aldarwish arrived in Maine in 2019 with her family 鈥� her husband, Jafar, and their three girls who are now ages 11 to 15. Aldarwish completed her capstone internship at 91爆料鈥檚 Children鈥檚 Center with a focus on the application of observational and developmental principles in early childhood settings, particularly related to children with diverse developmental needs, including autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. After graduation, Aldarwish plans to return to Saudi Arabia to work with families and children. 

A full profile of Aldarwish is online. 

Ella Boxall

Maine College of Engineering and Computing

Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering with Minors in Sustainability and Mathematics and a Concentration in Water Resources

Ella Boxall of Kennebunkport, Maine, is the Outstanding Graduating Student in the Maine College of Engineering and Computing. She has completed internships with GEI Consultants and TRC Companies, conducted research using MATLAB to project sea level rise and king tides in Bar Harbor and served as a learning assistant and grader. Her capstone project focuses on redesigning a gravity-fed water system for a salmon rearing facility in Aroostook County, highlighting creative, low-energy engineering solutions. She plans to pursue graduate studies in marine science in the United Kingdom and build a career promoting coastal and environmental resilience.

A full profile of Boxall is available online. 

Dianne Brindisi

Division of Lifelong Learning

Bachelor of University Studies, Leadership Studies Track

Dianne Brindisi of Cape Neddick, Maine, is the Outstanding Graduating Student in the Division of Lifelong Learning at the 91爆料. Service has always been central to Brindisi鈥檚 life. From supporting families in need and mentoring young leaders to contributing to professional associations that advance women and industry standards, Brindisi believes leadership is inseparable from service. Looking ahead, she is committed to educating the public about the university studies program and sharing her positive experience and welcomes the opportunity to serve as a program ambassador. 

A full profile of Brindisi is online. 

Kate Evans

College of Education and Human Development

Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education with a Second Major in Spanish

Kate Evans of Bangor, Maine, is the Outstanding Graduating Student for the College of Education and Human Development. A single mom of four young children, whom she has homeschooled while working toward her degree, Evans earned a 4.00 GPA while pursuing double majors in secondary education and Spanish. She received the Roger Hill Humanities Scholarship and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Outstanding Junior Award. Evans is an active member of her church community, where she often volunteers her time for service and educational programs. After graduating she plans to stay in the Bangor region and teach Spanish at a local high school.

A full profile of Evans is online. 

Chantelle Flores

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences | Honors College

Bachelor of Arts in English with a Minor in Creative Writing

Bachelor of Arts in Art History with a Minor in Classical Studies

Chantelle Flores of Oakland, Maine, is the Outstanding Graduating Student for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. She was a McGillicuddy Humanities Center (MHC) Undergraduate Fellow, as well as a Zillman Art Museum Research Curatorial Fellow through the center. Flores interned at the 91爆料 Writing Center and served as co-editor-in-chief of Spire magazine. After graduation, she plans to pursue an internship related to literature or the arts and apply for graduate programs for art history, with the ultimate goal of acquiring a Ph.D. in contemporary art history and becoming a professor.

A full profile of Flores is online. 

Zoe Furber

College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences

Bachelor of Science in Marine Science with a Second Major in Biology with a Concentration in Marine Biology

Zoe Furber of Vancouver, British Columbia, is the Outstanding Graduating International Student for the College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences. She has been a member of the 91爆料 Field Hockey team since 2022 and was appointed captain in 2025. During her time at 91爆料, she completed a capstone project comparing ocean temperatures in the Gulf of Maine to heart rate metrics of blue mussels. These experiences prepared her for a career in environmental, social and governance (ESG) and sustainability. Furber plans to complete a Master of Science in Global Strategy and Sustainability at the University of Edinburgh, where she will play field hockey for an additional year.

A full profile of Furber is online. 

Ruth Griffith

College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences | Honors College

Bachelor of Science in Economics with Minors in Mathematics and International Affairs

Ruth Griffith of Parkman, Maine, is the Outstanding Graduating Student for the Honors College and the 2026 91爆料 valedictorian. She is majoring in economics with minors in mathematics and international affairs. Through her honors thesis, Griffith developed a method to analyze sub-county economic trends using regional data, helping illuminate how policies impact local communities across Maine. Drawing on her background in regional economics, she adapted tools used for markets to understand disparities. Beyond academics, she has led service initiatives such as the Maine Day Meal Packout, coordinating efforts that provide tens of thousands of meals statewide. She will launch her career at TD Bank in New York City after graduation and plans to one day pursue a Master of Business Administration.

A full profile of Griffith is online.

Sarah Johnson

Maine Business School

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accounting with a Second Major in Business Information Systems and Security Management

Sarah Johnson of Clifton, Maine, is the Outstanding Graduating Student for the Maine Business School. Johnson has completed multiple internships with both the Maine Business School and BerryDunn, an accounting and consulting services firm. She has also worked as an undergraduate assistant for 91爆料鈥檚 Office of Institutional Research and Assessment. These roles strengthened her professional skill set, including effective communication, adaptability, critical thinking and the ability to apply feedback constructively. They also prepared her to approach problems analytically and to collaborate effectively in a professional setting. Following graduation, she will launch her career at BerryDunn as a tax specialist.  

A full profile of Johnson is online. 

Jasper Makowski

College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences | Honors College

Bachelor of Science in Microbiology

Jasper Makowski of Dover-Foxcroft, Maine, is the Outstanding Graduating Student in the College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences. He secured internships and part-time work with two medical facilities and 91爆料鈥檚 Maginnis Lab. Working closely with associate professor of microbiology Melissa Maginnis, he researched signaling mechanisms in viruses and learned about a range of diseases. Makowski is a student organizer for the Maine Day Meal Packout. Outside of academics, he retreats to the Maine outdoors and enjoys a variety of activities, from backpacking to fly fishing. After he graduates, he is pursuing a medical degree with plans to return to rural Maine as a primary care provider. 

A full profile of Makowski is online. 

Andrii Obertas

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Bachelor of Science in Physics

Bachelor of Science in Mathematics

Andrii Obertas of Lutsk, Ukraine, is the 2026 Outstanding Graduating International Student for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and the 2026 91爆料 co-salutatorian. Pursuing dual degrees in physics and mathematics, Obertas has distinguished himself through academic excellence and perseverance. He has conducted original research in both physics and mathematics, while also engaging in outreach efforts that bring science education to communities across Maine. His experience at 91爆料 has been shaped by a strong sense of community and opportunity, which he credits with providing hope for his future. After graduation, Obertas plans to pursue a master鈥檚 degree in mathematics through the accelerated 4+1 program.

A full profile of Obertas is online.

Samuel Tremblay

Maine Business School

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Management

Samuel Tremblay of Quebec City is the Outstanding Graduating International Student for the Maine Business School. Tremblay is a tutor, mentor, Maine Business School ambassador and president of the 91爆料 chapter of the Beta Gamma Sigma honor society. He is also a kicker for the 91爆料 Football Team, through which he became a finalist for the Fred Mitchell Award, and a representative for the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. He served as a captain on Canada’s Junior National Team at the International Federation of American Football鈥檚 World Junior Championship. After graduation, he plans to stay at 91爆料 and pursue a master’s degree while continuing to play football.听听

A full profile of Tremblay is online. 

Karun Varghese

Maine College of Engineering and Computing | Honors College

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering with a Minor in Robotics

Karun Varghese of Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is the Outstanding Graduating International Student in the Maine College of Engineering and Computing and the Honors College. Varghese assumed research roles in the Computer Vision and Autonomous Robotics Lab, the High Altitude Ballooning Lab and the Advanced Structures and Composites Center. Outside of academics, he participated in the Black Bear Robotics Club, the South Asian Association of Maine and Model United Nations. Through Model UN, he traveled internationally to Taiwan, the Philippines and Peru. After graduation, he will pursue graduate studies at Carnegie Mellon University鈥檚 Robotics Institute.

A full profile of Varghese is online. 

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

Why did you choose to come to 91爆料?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Describe 91爆料 in one word and explain. 

Inspiring.

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

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

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

Story by William Bickford, graduate student writer

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

Speaking as part of the Maine College of Engineering and Computing Distinguished Lecture Series, co-hosted by the Office of the Vice President for Research, Michael F. Chiang said emerging technologies are making medical care more data-driven, consistent and accessible.

鈥淐linical practice and research are being rapidly reshaped by breakthroughs in artificial intelligence and data science,鈥� said Chiang, director of the National Eye Institute at the National Institutes of Health and elected member of the National Academy of Medicine.

Following the lecture, 91爆料 President Joan Ferrini-Mundy and Giovanna Guidoboni, interim vice president for research and dean of the Maine College of Engineering and Computing, joined Chiang for a panel discussion moderated by Alon Harris, director of the Barry Family Center for Ophthalmic Artificial Intelligence and Human Health and professor at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York.

Ferrini-Mundy said the rapid pace of innovation is reshaping not only research, but the future of health care.

鈥淲e鈥檙e living in a time when clinical practice and research across fields 鈥� particularly in the medical field 鈥� are being rapidly reshaped by breakthroughs in artificial intelligence and data science,鈥� she said.

Harris, who is also faculty within the Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering at 91爆料, reflected on the breadth of opportunity that exists across Maine and that 91爆料 is uniquely positioned to lead.

鈥淚 had been here before, but during this visit I discovered there is so much more,鈥� he said. 鈥淭his place is so motivating, from the biological and biomedical labs, to the full scale automated vehicles and 3D printed homes with smart health sensors. The level of people we met and the research interests were truly thought-provoking.鈥�

Guidoboni said Chiang鈥檚 work reflects the data-driven, interdisciplinary approach central to research at 91爆料. Over the past 16 years, Guidoboni and Harris have advanced mathematical modeling and data science, including studies on ocular blood flow, eye disease risk and noninvasive health monitoring, with the development of digital twins to help translate the advances of science into personalized medical care.

Their work reflects a broader shift toward using advanced analytics to better understand and treat complex health conditions.

鈥淒r. Chiang鈥檚 work exemplifies the power of combining clinical insight with data science to transform patient care,鈥� Guidoboni said. 鈥淗is leadership at the National Eye Institute is inspiring, especially as these innovations expand access and improve outcomes in rural communities like Maine.鈥�

Chiang said advances in imaging have transformed ophthalmology from a largely descriptive field into one grounded in quantitative data, allowing clinicians to better measure and analyze disease.

He pointed to retinopathy of prematurity 鈥� a condition that can cause blindness in infants 鈥� as an example of how artificial intelligence can improve care. Studies have shown that even experts reviewing the same retinal images often disagree on whether disease is severe.

鈥淭hat discrepancy is real,鈥� Chiang said. 鈥淎nd this is where AI can help doctors make diagnoses that are more accurate and more consistent.鈥�

He also highlighted emerging research suggesting that the eye may offer insights into broader health conditions. Because clinicians can directly observe blood vessels and nerves in the eye, researchers are exploring whether imaging can help predict diseases elsewhere in the body.

鈥淚f that鈥檚 really true and generalizable, then that鈥檚 remarkable,鈥� he said, referring to studies linking eye imaging to neurological disease.

Chiang emphasized that progress in AI depends on access to large, high-quality datasets and collaboration across institutions.

鈥淕arbage in, garbage out,鈥� he said, cautioning that poor-quality data can limit the effectiveness of AI tools.

He also noted that technology could help reduce administrative burdens on physicians, who often spend significant time entering information into electronic health records.

鈥淭he technologies will help automate some of those things,鈥� he said, 鈥渟o doctors can spend more of their focus on the patient.鈥�

Advances in technology are also reshaping how and where care is delivered, particularly in rural areas like Maine.

Chiang pointed to opportunities to expand care beyond traditional clinical settings through telehealth, remote monitoring and home-based tools, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for care.

鈥淚npatient hospital stays are shorter than they ever used to be,鈥� he said.

Those shifts, he added, raise broader questions about how physicians are trained and how healthcare systems adapt as medicine becomes increasingly data-driven.

As AI continues to evolve, Chiang said its impact will extend beyond diagnosis to reshape research, education and care delivery.

Contact: David Nordman, david.nordman@maine.edu

Giovanna Guidoboni, dean of the Maine College of Engineering and Computing and interim vice president for research, and David Neivandt, professor of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, were formally inducted during the AIMBE annual event on April 13 in Arlington, Virginia.

Election to the AIMBE College of Fellows is highly selective, representing the top 2% of medical and biological engineers. Fellows are nominated, reviewed and elected by their peers in recognition of outstanding contributions to research, practice or education, as well as for advancing innovation in the field.

鈥淭his recognition reflects the collaborative work happening at the 91爆料 to connect engineering, computing, and health,鈥� Guidoboni said. 鈥淚t underscores the importance of working across disciplines, bringing together faculty and students, to advance knowledge and improve disease outcomes..鈥�

Guidoboni was recognized 鈥渇or her application of mathematics and computational methods to understanding complex organ functions and identifying novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.鈥�

Neivandt was honored 鈥渇or outstanding achievement in the creation and translation of new biomaterial-based technologies and the expansion of biomedical engineering within Maine.鈥�

鈥淚鈥檓 honored to be elected by my peers to AIMBE,鈥� Neivandt said. 鈥淭his recognition highlights not only my work and that of my students, but also the growing strength of biomedical engineering in Maine and the opportunities we have to translate research into real-world impact.鈥�

Their election marks a milestone for the 91爆料. To date, only three individuals based in Maine have been inducted into AIMBE, and Guidoboni and Neivandt are the first from the university to receive the distinction.

The recognition comes as the university continues to expand its focus on health, life sciences and engineering, including efforts to grow research and innovation capacity across disciplines.

AIMBE Fellows represent a global community of leaders across academia, industry, clinical practice and government. The organization includes some of the most accomplished figures in the field, including Nobel Prize laureates and members of the National Academies.

Contact: David Nordman, david.nordman@maine.edu

Biomedical engineering major Isabelle Irani of Spring, Texas, and physics and mathematics double major Andrii Obertas of Lutsk, Ukraine, are the 2026 co-salutatorians.

The three will graduate on May 9 during the university鈥檚 undergraduate commencement ceremonies at Alfond Arena.

鈥淩uth, Isabelle and Andrii have distinguished themselves through their curiosity, discipline and commitment to others,鈥� said 91爆料 President Joan Ferrini-Mundy. 鈥淩uth has taken a thoughtful, data-driven approach to understanding economic disparities in Maine. Isabelle has shown remarkable leadership in advancing mental health support for student-athletes while balancing the demands of Division I athletics and biomedical engineering research. Andrii has achieved exceptional success in both physics and mathematics while demonstrating resilience and a deep commitment to learning. Together, they represent the very best of this graduating class.鈥�

Ruth Griffith

Through her honors thesis, Griffith developed a method to analyze sub-county economic trends using regional data, helping illuminate how policies impact local communities across Maine. Drawing on her background in regional economics, she adapted tools used for markets to understand disparities. Beyond academics, she has led service initiatives such as the Maine Day Meal Packout, coordinating efforts that provide tens of thousands of meals statewide.

A full profile of Griffith is online.

Isabelle Irani

Irani is a varsity swimmer whose leadership has transformed mental health support for 91爆料 student-athletes. She founded the university鈥檚 chapter of The Hidden Opponent and successfully advocated for expanded mental health resources, including an in-house therapist for student-athletes. Alongside her advocacy, she has conducted research on sustainable biomaterials and balanced the demands of engineering coursework and Division I athletics.

A full profile of Irani is online.

Andrii Obertas

Obertas came to 91爆料 from Ukraine and has distinguished himself through academic excellence and perseverance. He has conducted original research in both physics and mathematics, while also engaging in outreach efforts that bring science education to communities across Maine. His experience at 91爆料 has been shaped by a strong sense of community and opportunity, which he credits with providing hope for his future.

A full profile of Obertas is online.

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

A member of the Women鈥檚 Swimming and Diving Team who competed in the butterfly and individual medley, Irani founded the 91爆料 chapter of The Hidden Opponent, a national nonprofit dedicated to athlete mental health advocacy. Seeking to make a tangible difference for student-athletes, she sought additional mental health services from the university. 

Driven by a passion to help her peers, she found the confidence she admittedly lacked at the start of her collegiate career to not only earn the support from 91爆料 Athletics that would eventually lead to the university hiring an in-office therapist specifically for student-athletes. 

鈥淚 faked it 鈥榯il I made it,鈥� Irani said. 鈥淭he Hidden Opponent was the first instance where I just showed up with a lot of confidence as I asked administration and 91爆料 Athletics for what I needed, and they just gave it to me.鈥�

Success in improving student athlete mental health is one of several personal, athletic and academic accolades that earned Irani, a biomedical engineering major, the title of co-salutatorian for 91爆料鈥檚 Class of 2026. Her recognition as co-salutatorian reflects not just her academic achievement, but the personal growth she has cultivated throughout her time at 91爆料.

Between early morning swim practice and rigorous engineering coursework, Irani built a college career defined by discipline, determination and a deep network of support. Alongside excelling in engineering and competing as a Division I level swimmer, Irani navigated new challenges and built the confidence to take ownership of her college experience. 

鈥淚 went in thinking that my major would define me,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 switched majors four times before I even got to school. I thought this was going to be a make-or-break moment for my career.鈥�

Several research and leadership opportunities that shaped Irani鈥檚 collegiate experience were ones she sought herself. For example, when she contacted chemical engineering professor David Neivandt for lab experience, he invited her to join the Neivandt Lab, where she helped develop sustainable lobster-shell biomaterials. 

The material, stronger than both concrete and wood, dissolves in water within two weeks and fully biodegrades in soil in about a month. The work not only allowed her to develop her skills and enhance her resume, but also participate in a project that has a tangible societal impact.

鈥淢y goal has always been to contribute meaningfully,鈥� Irani said. 鈥淚 think my mindset changed when I started thinking that way 鈥� thinking, how can this be meaningful? How can I show up?鈥�

Irani relied on a structured routine to balance her commitments. Early morning, disciplined schedules, and careful time management enabled her to excel in athletics, coursework, research and leadership roles without compromising her health or well-being.

Irani credits her growth to the support of mentors, advisors and peers. David J. Neivandt guided her research endeavors, while her athletic and academic advisor Julie Cheville helped her to navigate the complex demands of Division I athletics and engineering coursework. Her teammates and roommate, Ashley LeClaire, provided daily motivation and camaraderie, and her girlfriend, Sarah, offered emotional support throughout the rigorous college experience.

鈥淚鈥檝e had one roommate for the last three years, Ashley, and she鈥檚 been insanely supportive, helping me find balance during long days and making sure I take time to step away and relax,鈥� Irani said. 鈥淎nd my girlfriend, Sarah, has been a big part of my success here over the last two years 鈥� encouraging me, questioning me when I doubt myself, and helping me feel confident in pursuing research, conferences, and other opportunities.鈥�

Her family also played a formative role. Her aunt, Jean MacRae, a civil & environmental engineering professor here at 91爆料, and her uncle, Farahad Dastoor, a biology lecturer and undergraduate coordinator at 91爆料, encouraged her curiosity from the start. Their guidance helped Irani see the opportunities at 91爆料 and made the university feel like a place she could call home very early on.

Looking forward, Irani plans to continue her research through a 4+1 master鈥檚 program in biomedical engineering at 91爆料, working to develop sustainable and effective medical devices that combine innovation with societal impact. She hopes prospective students and families understand the supportive culture at 91爆料 and the opportunities available for those willing to take initiative and explore beyond their comfort zones.

From Texas to Maine, Irani鈥檚 journey illustrates how discipline, community and proactive engagement can shape a transformative college experience. Her selection as co-salutortian honors not only her academic success, but also the leadership, curiosity and resilience that have defined her four years at 91爆料.

Story by William Bickford, graduate student writer

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

At the 91爆料, that trend is evident across disciplines tied to growing sectors of the U.S. economy, including engineering, health care and biomedical sciences, business, natural resources and environmental sciences, agriculture and food systems, communication sciences and disorders, and biotechnology.

University data highlight several indicators of that demand:

• Mechanical engineering enrollment has increased by more than 30% over the past decade, with a 95% student satisfaction rate.
• The wildlife, fisheries and conservation biology program reports that 95% of graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate school, with 82% working in natural resource fields.
• The Maine Business School, which will enroll 330 first-year students, filled nearly half of those seats before April and reports a 94% positive outcome rate.
• In animal and veterinary sciences, about 20% of graduates continue to veterinary or medical school.
• Health-related fields tied to several majors are projected to see continued job growth over the next decade.

Mechanical engineering

91爆料鈥檚 mechanical engineering program, now the university鈥檚 largest major, has expanded in response to national demand for engineers in industries including manufacturing, technology and transportation.

Enrollment has increased by more than 30% over the past decade. Graduates are recruited by employers such as Bath Iron Works, Pratt & Whitney, Northrop Grumman, Texas Instruments, GE and NASA鈥檚 Goddard Space Flight Center.

The curriculum progresses from foundational coursework in math and physics to advanced engineering applications, with an emphasis on analysis, design and problem-solving. Experiential learning is integrated throughout, with students participating in internships, co-ops and a yearlong senior capstone design sequence focused on design, prototyping and testing.

Students may pursue concentrations such as aerospace engineering, along with minors or certificates in robotics, artificial intelligence and smart manufacturing. The program reports a 95% positive student sentiment rate.

Wildlife, fisheries and conservation biology

The wildlife, fisheries and conservation biology program has more than doubled in enrollment over the past two decades, reflecting sustained interest in conservation and natural resource careers.

The curriculum emphasizes field-based learning. More than half of courses include outdoor labs, and students complete a required immersive field experience in Downeast Maine that is frequently cited as a defining part of their education. More than 80% of undergraduates report that fieldwork influenced their decision to enroll.

Students gain experience through field surveys, internships and research. About 70% complete field experiences, and more than half participate in faculty-led research. Faculty and students have also produced more than 140 peer-reviewed publications and secured nearly $16 million in research funding during the past five years.

Among graduates, 95% are employed or enrolled in graduate school, and 82% work in natural resource fields.

Speech, pre-medical and biomedical sciences

91爆料 is reporting increased interest in programs that prepare students for careers in health care, research and biotechnology, reflecting broader national workforce trends.

Fields such as speech-language pathology and audiology are projected to experience above-average job growth over the next decade, according to federal labor data. Demand is influenced by factors including an aging population and expanded access to care.

Programs in communication sciences and disorders, biology, biochemistry and microbiology provide preparation for graduate study and professional careers, including speech-language pathology as well as medical, dental and veterinary school.

Students frequently participate in faculty-led research, gaining experience that supports applications to graduate programs or entry into the workforce. Faculty say the programs emphasize both academic preparation and applied learning.

Business

The Maine Business School is nearing capacity for its incoming class, reflecting strong student demand for business education.

The program will enroll 330 first-year students, and nearly half of those seats were filled before April. Administrators say the pace of enrollment indicates sustained interest throughout the admissions cycle.

Students are drawn to the flexibility of the degree, particularly the general business major, which allows exploration across disciplines before selecting a concentration. Finance and marketing remain among the most popular areas of study.

The school reported a 94% positive outcome rate for the Class of 2024, defined as graduates employed, enrolled in graduate school or participating in service programs within six months. Officials say the program is designed to prepare students for a range of careers across industries.

Animal and veterinary sciences

Enrollment in 91爆料鈥檚 animal and veterinary sciences program has increased since before the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting demand for careers in animal health, veterinary medicine and agriculture.

The program prepares students for careers in veterinary medicine, research and agriculture-related fields. About 20% of graduates continue to veterinary or medical school, while others enter the workforce directly.

Students gain hands-on experience at the university鈥檚 J.F. Witter Teaching and Research Center, where they work with animals in applied settings and develop practical skills.

All students also participate in research with faculty on topics including animal health, environmental systems and disease. Faculty say the program is structured to support both exploration and career preparation as workforce demand continues to grow.

Contact: David Nordman, david.nordman@maine.edu 

At the 91爆料, that national trend is translating into sustained growth.

Mechanical engineering, the university鈥檚 largest major, has expanded by more than 30% over the past decade and continues to attract strong interest ahead of the May 1 college decision deadline. The program鈥檚 scale reflects both workforce demand and the appeal of a degree with broad career pathways.

鈥淢echanical engineering is more than just a degree; it is a meticulously designed journey preparing students for a wide range of career options in industry as well as advanced studies,鈥� said Masoud Rais-Rohani, Richard C. Hill Professor and chair of mechanical engineering at 91爆料.

That pathway increasingly leads directly into the workforce.

Graduates report an average starting salary of more than $79,000 and are recruited by major employers such as Bath Iron Works, Pratt & Whitney, Northrop Grumman, Texas Instruments, GE and NASA Goddard Space Flight Center.

For many students and families, that combination of career opportunity and earning potential is a deciding factor.

At 91爆料, that preparation is built into the curriculum as a learner-centered R1 research university. Students begin with a foundation in math, physics and engineering before progressing into advanced coursework emphasizing quantitative analysis and technical mastery. 

鈥淲e鈥檙e very intentional about how the curriculum builds from fundamentals to real-world application,鈥� Rais-Rohani said. 

Students describe the faculty as both rigorous and deeply supportive, helping bridge the transition from foundational coursework to advanced engineering practice.

Experiential learning is also integrated throughout, culminating in a yearlong senior capstone design sequence in which students move through the full engineering process 鈥� from initial design and analysis to prototyping and testing.

Students can further tailor their education through concentrations such as aerospace engineering, as well as minors in robotics or artificial intelligence and certificates in areas including smart manufacturing and building science. Internship and co-op opportunities, study abroad experiences, along with student organizations that compete nationally, provide additional applied experience.

Those opportunities contribute to strong student satisfaction, with the program reporting a 95% positive sentiment rating.

鈥淏y the time they reach their senior year, students are navigating the full engineering process 鈥� from concept to testing,鈥� Rais-Rohani said. 鈥淭hat experience prepares them for a wide range of career options in industry and beyond.鈥�

Contact: David Nordman, david.nordman@maine.edu

鈥淪horeline erosion is depositing sediment into the river, which serves an Atlantic Salmon habitat. Therefore, we would like to prevent Orono from washing away into the river and avoid disrupting their habitat,鈥� said Edwin Nagy, project adviser and a principal lecturer of civil engineering at the 91爆料.

To help address those concerns, five 91爆料 engineering students are partnering with the town of Orono to develop proposals to potentially improve parking, increase access to the water and stabilize these paths for many years to come. The collaboration is part of the students鈥� senior capstone project and focuses on strengthening stormwater drainage, increasing accessibility and protecting the riverfront park for long-term use.

Their work reflects 91爆料鈥檚 commitment to learner-centered R1, hands-on, real-world research learning opportunities, where undergraduate students work directly with faculty and industry partners to tackle challenges facing Maine communities.

Spanning more than 4 acres along North Maine Avenue, Webster Park serves as a hub for outdoor recreation with waterfront access and open green space. Town officials recruited the student team to help generate ideas that balance environmental protection with public access.

The team is prioritizing bioengineered solutions such as native plantings, rain gardens and local materials to mitigate flooding and erosion while maintaining the park鈥檚 natural character.

鈥淭hese improvements will enhance the visitor experience at Webster Park in Orono, Maine. Visitors can take a quick kayak trip on the Stillwater River and return to picnic areas protected from erosion. Whether it鈥檚 fishing, swimming or sightseeing, this project aims to polish and protect existing features to make them accessible for everyone,鈥� said Shea Decoteau, a team member and civil and environmental engineering major.

Students have visited the site and have been collecting data and input from town officials. As part of their research, they are conducting a life cycle analysis on certain park areas to measure the environmental impacts of various materials and processes and evaluate how they will withstand Maine winters.

The town鈥檚 budget and recent remodeling of Brown鈥檚 Park prompted the students to ask what materials were already available locally.

鈥淭he town鈥檚 biggest goal is to keep Webster Park looking natural. We have railroad ties and old stone that were salvaged from projects in town and are currently stored at the landfill. These are reusable materials that we can use for this project,鈥� said Megan Hess, environmental services manager for Orono.

During the capstone course each year, teams select from several available projects and are assigned to one of their top three choices before forming teams. Decoteau said she chose the Webster Park project because of its proximity to campus, its multidisciplinary scope and the opportunity to collect real-time data.

The project also presents practical challenges. Decoteau noted that because the group is not a professional engineering firm, they do not have the resources to send out a team of surveyors. Instead, they must address real-world problems using abstract ideas or information currently available to them.

鈥淥ur site visit helped us visualize what we were trying to accomplish. Before, it was just abstract, but seeing what was already there and talking to the town representative helped us focus,鈥� Decoteau said.

Depending on the scale of the students鈥� proposals, Orono鈥檚 Public Works Department may carry out elements of the project. For larger-scale initiatives, the town could consult an engineering firm.

鈥淚 think they are going to bring forward some very good ideas of necessary things that should happen. Once those ideas are packaged up and we see what the priorities are for the park, we can present them to the Town Council for budgeting and implementation,鈥� Hess said.

Story by Alexa Rose Perocillo, news intern.

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