Maines, Pelletier named 2015 Steve Gould Award recipients
Two members of the University of Maine community have been named recipients of the 2015 Steve Gould Award: Wayne Maines, executive director of safety, health services, transportation and security; and Melinda “Mindy” Pelletier, an administrative specialist in the Office of Academic Affairs and Provost, and president of the Classified Employees Advisory Council.
The Gould Award is presented to members of the UMaine community who have, by their conduct, demonstrated superior qualities of unselfishness and compassion in the course of serving UMaine and its ideals.
The Steve Gould Award will be presented at the Employee Recognition and Awards Ceremony, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m., April 8 at Wells Conference Center.
Maines was cited for his community leadership in recent years that enlightened members of the UMaine community, the state of Maine and the nation about transgender people. Maines is the father of two children, one of whom is transgender. His family’s story is told in the book “Becoming Nicole: The Transformation of an American Family,” by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Amy Ellis Nutt.
In raising awareness of issues facing the transgender community, Maines has become a civil rights advocate for anyone facing discrimination.
In his nomination letter, UMaine Professor of History Howard Segal noted that Maines teaches us all to be more sensitive, accepting and open to each other.
“Wayne Maines champions the underdog, changes lives and makes us all better people. He is a true hero,” Segal said.
Pelletier, a UMaine alumnus, was cited for her dedication to making meaningful contributions that improve the lives of those around her, and for advancing the UMaine mission. As president of the Classified Employees Advisory Council, Pelletier has worked tirelessly to advance the organization and its members. She advocates for opportunities for individuals to advance their skills, talents and career mobility potential, and she is dedicated to safety in the workplace.
In her community leadership, Pelletier mobilizes local people and resources to meet needs. Her initiatives have included a drive to compile and distribute personal care supplies for the homeless, and collect donations and nonperishable food items for the Black Bear Exchange.
Pelletier’s nomination letters cite her compassion, integrity, generosity, humor and “dedication to being a good person” — characteristics she embodies daily in all she undertakes.
“Mindy shows me every day what a pleasure it is to be part of the University of Maine community,” noted Administrative and Fiscal Officer Dianne Avery in her nomination letter.
The annual Steve Gould Award was created to honor the former UMaine police chief. Gould had a 14-year career with the Maine State Police before joining the UMaine community in 1956. During his 13 years as UMaine police chief, Gould was noted for his student-centered approach. Gould was an active community volunteer and musician who went on to serve in the Maine House of Representatives.