Students discuss experience in Best Buddies program with WABI

UMaine Alert

Posted: April 19, 2024 - 1:32 PM

At approximately 9:24 a.m. on Friday, April 19, a University of Maine graduate student was struck by a university vehicle on Long Road at the University of Maine campus in Orono. The student reports that they are at a local hospital with minor injuries.

Emergency services, including the Orono Fire Department, University Volunteer Ambulance Corps, University of Maine Police Department, Orono Police Department and Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene.

The university vehicle involved in the incident was a Chevrolet Express van. It was being operated by a university employee.

Counseling services and support are available for students, faculty or staff who may have been affected. The Counseling Center can be reached at 207-581-1392 and the Dean of Students Office can be reached at 207-581-1406.

The scene has been cleared and Long Road is now accessible. An investigation is being conducted by the University of Maine Police Department with assistance from the Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Unit. Any witnesses to the incident are encouraged to contact Lt. Noel Santiago at noel.santiago@maine.edu.

April 19, 2018 Outreach, Student Life, UMaine in the News

WABI (Channel 5) spoke with students in the University of Maine chapter of Best Buddies, an international nonprofit that aims to create opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Adya Plourde, president of the UMaine chapter, said she feels strongly about the program. “The whole aspect is to be a friend, and that’s what I hope we do best,” she said, adding, “It’s the best thing I did in my four years.” Plourde’s buddy, Molly Berry, said she enjoyed being in the program and having the support of a friend. Best Buddies will hold an awareness event on campus at 11 a.m. April 22. The event will include a walk around the mall, food, games, activities and guest speakers, WABI reported.