About Us

Dean’s Message

At the Maine Business School, we believe in an education that is robust in perspective, rigorous in practice, and relevant to the needs of our ever-changing business world. I’ve been a proud Business Black Bear since I joined the college in 2008. After earning a promotion to Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship, I leveraged my deep interest in the intersection of strategy, innovation, and entrepreneurship to teach at UMaine and lead programs for entrepreneurs statewide. I’ve been heavily invested in entrepreneurial work across Maine, and that passion influences my leadership style at the University of Maine.

Our goal here is to create a sense of community and belonging at the Maine Business School. Through our first-year experience programming, innovative personal and professional development offerings, and support for experiential learning opportunities, we strive to make a difference in the lives of our students throughout their journey at the University of Maine. At the Maine Business School, YOU make a difference.

Mission & Values

The mission and vision of the Maine Business School have long emphasized student learning, faculty scholarship, and service to the community. These themes align with the UMaine strategic direction and resonate with faculty, students, alumni, Advisory Board members, and the community.

Our Mission is to Lead

Our mission is to engage students and professionals in academic adventures focused on evolving business practices and to advance knowledge through scholarship as we connect with our communities.

Our Vision Emphasizes Change

We are catalysts for sustainable change in our approaches, processes, and communities.

Our Values Drive Us to Care

Connect through collaborations and teamwork with a mindful view of global partners.

Adapt through innovative steps for our curriculum and outreach efforts.

Respect people as we expect professional interactions and integrity in ourselves and others.

Engage with current thought leadership about business practice and data-driven decisions.

We CARE about our students, colleagues, communities, and the world beyond.

AACSB Accreditation

AACSB is a global nonprofit association that connects educators, students, and businesses to achieve a common goal: to create the next generation of great leaders. Synonymous with the highest standards of excellence since 1916, AACSB provides quality assurance, business education intelligence, and learning and development services to over 1,900 member organizations and more than 1,000 accredited business schools worldwide. 

When educational, professional, and business organizations become members of the AACSB Business Education Alliance, they are part of a movement united to improve the quality of business education around the world. AACSB connects, shares, and inspires innovation and quality throughout the member network, as well as the business community. The collective strength of the organization is founded on diverse perspectives, a global mindset, and a commitment to making a difference. The Maine Business School has been a certified member since 1974.

AACSB Accreditation Logo

Our Students

  • 62% in-state students
  • 63% of UMaine students completed an internship
  • 32% out-of-state students
  • 84% found employment related to their major
  • 6% international students
  • 93% of graduates had a positive outcome at UMaine

MBS Advisory Board

The Advisory Board of the Maine Business School (MBS) is a distinguished group of business leaders selected by the Dean to act as ambassadors, advisors, and advocates to:

  • Provide leadership and support to the Dean using their skills, experience, resources, and diversity to strengthen existing academic programs and develop new ones to meet the needs of the State of Maine.
  • Work with the Dean, faculty, and staff to develop and participate in programs for MBS students, including guest lectures, mentoring, and internship programs.
  • Increase the visibility and image of the MBS in our business communities.
  • Assist in development activities that provide a firm economic base for MBS programming.

Lawrence Blaisdell, ‘86, UMaine
Managing Director, VIGILANT Capital Management, LLC

Daniel J. Bouchard, ‘83 and ‘85G, UMaine
Sr. Vice President, State Street Corporation

Bethany Durrell, ‘09, UMaine
Director, Project Delivery, Unum Group

Bruce Hall, ‘83, UMaine
President & CMO, Eureka! Inventing

Jason A. House, ’00, UMPI
Regional Vice President of Commercial Lending, TD Bank

Christopher Keating, ‘79, UMaine
Director of Client Relations, Mountain Pacific Group

Michael Kuhn, ’12, ’14G, UMaine
Manager, Global Strategic Marketing, Johnson & Johnson

Nicole Larabee, ‘11G, UMaine
Owner, Superior Restoration Services

Pasquale Maiorino Esq., ‘69, UMaine
Board of Directors, Androscoggin Bank

Kathleen Murphy, ‘86, UMaine
CEO, Market Me Too

Timothy O’Neil, ‘79, UMaine
Founding Partner, Monks O’Neil Development

Douglas Packard, ‘79, UMaine
CEO/Owner, Doug Packard Consulting
Renaissance Executive Forums ME/NH

Michael Perry, ‘09, UMaine
Financial Advisor, BayView Financial Management

Derek Ribbons, ‘98, UMaine
Co-Founder, Stealth Startup

Danielle Snow, ‘97 and ‘99G, UMaine
Leadership & Executive Coach

Jon Sorenson, ‘86, UMaine
President & CEO, JFS Energy Advisors, LLC

Greg Stremlaw, ’95G, UMaine
CEO, Indy Sports & Entertainment and Indy Eleven Professional Soccer

Gary F. Thorne, ’70, UMaine and ’73, Maine Law

Melanie Tinto, ‘93, UMaine
Chief Human Resources Officer, WEX, Inc.

David Whitney, ’90, UMaine
Founder/Chief Executive Officer, Whitney Corporation

Eric Winterhalter, ‘92, UMaine
President & Co-Founder, Tran Capital Management

MBS Ambassadors

Maine Business School Ambassadors are a vital link between our institution and the broader community. As an MBS Ambassador, you’ll have the opportunity to engage with prospective and current students, faculty, alumni, and community members, sharing your enthusiasm for the MBS and UMaine experience.

With a focus on recruitment events, these students represent our school at open houses, campus tours, and student orientations. In addition to event participation, MBS Ambassadors serve as a student voice on the Dean’s Student Advisory Board, fostering connections and driving initiatives within the College.

Group of MBS Ambassadors