91����

Robert Kennedy arrived at the 91���� in 2000, first serving as vice president for academic affairs and provost, followed by an eight-month term as interim president. 

His presidency was marked by the development of the “New Model Land-Grant University,” a collaboration with other educational and research institutions to share resources and attract research funding. The 91���� Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences was formed under this initiative, in partnership with The Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Eastern Maine Healthcare Systems in Brewer and other Maine-based research institutions. 

 Kennedy also launched “Campaign Maine,” a six-year, $150 million private fundraising initiative. It is the largest private fundraiser in the University’s history. His administration also saw the construction of the LEED-certified New Balance Student Recreation and Fitness Center. Kennedy earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Minnesota and a Ph.D. in botany from the University of California at Berkeley. Following his 91���� presidency, Kennedy was appointed interim president of Connecticut’s new Board of Regents of Higher Education.