The Quoddy Tides publishes UMM Family Futures Downeast student success story
The Quoddy Tides published a story about a student who found success at the University of Maine at Machias through the Family Futures Downeast (FFD) program. Vanessa Royer left UMM during her first semester due to personal issues. She’s returned eight years later to begin her sophomore year in a bachelor’s program in nursing through the FFD program, which assists low-income adults with children through a one-year certificate program at UMM or Washington County Community College. Royer faced debt and challenges of a son born with critical health problems. Through the process of his treatment, she realized that her passion was in nursing. She credits the FFD program with helping her define goals and work to achieve them. The program helps participants overcome barriers to enrolling in college, especially transportation, debt and childcare. Coaches work closely with participants on their unique goals, according to The Quoddy Tides. Parents also receive post-secondary education support and children receive access to early childhood or alternative education. “We are thrilled with its success,” said UMM Vice President for Academic Affairs and Head of Campus Andy Egan of the program. “Removing barriers to higher education for parents of young children means that more Washington County families are on the path to financial security.”