UMaine names 2025 valedictorian, co-salutatorians
Meg Caron of Bangor, Maine, who is seeking dual degrees in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and the College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences, is the 2025 University of Maine valedictorian. Psychology major Alexandria Banou Morgan of Perry, Maine, and microbiology major Dominic Needham of Veazie, Maine, are the 2025 co-salutatorians. The three will graduate May 11 during the university’s 223rd commencement ceremonies.
“Meg, Alex and Dom epitomize the value of a University of Maine education. Their positive attitudes, unrelenting work ethic and passionate research endeavors will push our distinguished alumni network even further ahead,” said UMaine President Joan Ferrini-Mundy. “Meg’s commitment to serving others manifested in the pursuit of both a liberal arts and health sciences education. Alex’s passion to understand that which sets us apart led her not only to presenting her research abroad, but also to personal discovery. Dom’s enthusiasm for microbiology is only outmatched by his desire to lend a helping hand.
“They will be missed on our campus, but they can leave this community knowing it is a better place because of their investment in our student groups, collaboration in our research laboratories and mentorship to our rising first and second year students. Thank you, Meg, Alex and Dom, for pursuing your horizons to the fullest.”
Caron is pursuing dual degrees in French and microbiology with a second science major in molecular and cellular biology. Alongside research, volunteer work, campus clubs and cooking competitions, she has been a member of the Field Hockey and Women’s Cross Country teams. She emphasizes the value of time and strives to spend every minute in the pursuit of happiness.
A full Q&A with Caron is online.
Morgan is majoring in psychology with minors in neuroscience and philosophy. Her journey at UMaine has been one of self discovery through scholarly pursuits and service. Morgan applied her research on identity, religion and prejudice to help others find where they belong and secured approximately $63,000 in funding for her undergraduate research.
A full Q&A with Morgan is online.
Needham is a microbiology major. His enthusiasm — drawn from a fascination in how invisible-to-the-eye pathogens can shape society — has remained steady and engaged through his education. In addition to his role as vice president and recycling coordinator for Partners for World Health, Needham is the president of the UMaine Health Professions Club.
A full Q&A with Needham is online.
Contact: Ashley Yates; ashley.depew@maine.edu