Erin Kennedy: Outstanding Undergraduate Research Award

Erin Kennedy of Glen Ridge, New Jersey is the recipient of the 2025 Outstanding Undergraduate Research Award from the University of Maine College of Education and Human Development. An Elementary Education major with a concentration in Child Development, Kennedy was also an Honors College student. Her Honors thesis was titled “Examining the Need for Character Development Programs and Social Emotional Learning in the State of Maine: A Case Study Analysis.” This qualitative study explored the experiences of K-5 educators in implementing social-emotional learning (SEL) and character education within a regional school district in Maine. Kennedy conducted semi-structured interviews with five educators, including general education teachers and a school counselor, examining the successes and challenges associated with SEL and character education integration in elementary classrooms and broader school settings. 

Parent(s): Lara Muir and Benjamin Kennedy

Why did you choose to come to UMaine?

After moving to Maine in 2020, the choice was clear where I wanted to attend for my next 4 years of school! The University of Maine has such a welcoming and enthusiastic environment, with professors who truly care about their students and their success. 

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at UMaine better, and if so, who are they and how have they impacted your time at UMaine?

While at UMaine, I have collaborated with William and Janet Nichols, who co-chaired my UMaine Honors Thesis project. Both William and Janet supported me in completing a successful and meaningful research thesis regarding educator perceptions of social emotional learning. I would not have been able to complete this endeavor without their wisdom and dedication to the project. I am extremely grateful for their time and commitment this past year!  

What has coming to UMaine enabled you to explore beyond academics?

At UMaine, I had the opportunity to gain real classroom experience early on, which was incredibly valuable to developing my skill set for teaching. Being in the school, working with my mentor teachers, and building relationships with students has helped me feel confident and prepared to lead my own classroom someday. Additionally, one of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had here was completing my thesis on social-emotional learning in Maine elementary schools. It allowed me to dive deeper into a topic I’m passionate about and understand the importance of supporting the whole child, not just their academic needs, but their emotional and social development too.

Favorite UMaine memory: 

My favorite UMaine memory has been my entire student teaching experience! Not only did I have fantastic mentor teachers in Mrs. Keane and Mrs. Harper, but I also had the pleasure of teaching some pretty incredible students! 

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

After I graduate, I hope to pursue a career in teaching at the elementary level and continue to explore my role as a researcher in the education field. 

Special thank you message:

I would like to thank my family and friends for their constant support throughout my academic journey at UMaine, I could not have done it without them. I also want to thank my professors and advisors for growing my love for teaching over these past 4 years!