Andrea Gifford has been appointed dean of students for the University of Maine and the University of Maine at Machias.
Gifford has served as interim dean of students over the past year, providing leadership and guidance for students across both campuses while supporting student success, belonging and crisis response efforts.
The appointment was announced by UMaine President Joan Ferrini-Mundy in a letter to the campus community.
“Andrea’s deep institutional knowledge, student-centered approach and dedication to fostering a supportive campus environment have made a lasting impact on countless students, faculty and staff,” Ferrini-Mundy said. “Her leadership has strengthened the university’s ability to support student well-being, academic achievement and community engagement.”
Gifford brings more than three decades of experience at UMaine, with expertise in student affairs, academic advising, crisis management, student advocacy and university administration.
Since joining UMaine in 1991, Gifford has served in a variety of leadership and administrative roles across the university. Prior to her appointment as interim dean of students, she served as senior associate dean within the Division of Student Life.
She currently serves as chair and case manager for the Student Behavior Review Team, helping lead the university’s threat assessment and care management efforts for both UMaine and UMaine Machias.
Earlier in her career, Gifford served as an instructor for academic and career exploration and held positions within the Division of Lifelong Learning and the Division of Administration and Finance.
“I am honored by the opportunity to continue serving the students of the University of Maine and the University of Maine at Machias in this role,” Gifford said. “I look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with colleagues across our campuses to support student success and foster a welcoming and supportive university community.”
Gifford earned her master’s degree in education and student development and bachelor’s degree in business administration from UMaine.
