UMaine community welcomes new international students, faculty and visiting researchers

The University of Maine’s already vibrant international community includes 99 new faces this fall. UMaine’s reach as the Maine flagship has grown globally to now include new students from such countries as Liberia, Nepal, Serbia, Lebanon and Qatar.

Thirty-nine new international faculty and visiting researchers also are on campus to pursue collaborations with UMaine scholars. Many are experiencing United States culture for the first time, while others, due in part to an increase in international transfer students, will simply be making the adjustment to Maine and community life.

 “We are thrilled to have students and staff members from such diverse backgrounds join the UMaine community,” said Orlina Boteva, UMaine director of international programs. “Our ability to attract individuals from almost every continent creates unique cultural opportunities in small town Orono that are unmatched in the state.”

The Office of International Programs recognized the new members and allies of the international community in a welcome assembly Sept. 7, which included remarks by Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost Jeffrey Hecker, Assistant Vice President and Senior Associate Dean of Students Kenda Scheele, and Orono Town Council Chair Cynthia Mehnert.  

“UMaine’s international community enriches the educational experiences of all UMaine students,” Hecker said. “We are a better university because of our international colleagues. The goal is to make the University of Maine the international students’ home away from home.”

Vice President for Enrollment Management R. Lizzie Wahab added her welcome with care packages to all international students. “I am delighted to begin my new position at Maine in such good company with students and scholars from all over the world,” she said.