UMaine names two 2024 valedictorians, salutatorian
Political science and biology student Michael Delorge of Biddeford, Maine and mechanical engineering major Lydia Gilmore of Bangor, Maine are the 2024 University of Maine valedictorians. UMaine’s salutatorian is Katelyn Amero of Mapleton, Maine, who is double majoring in biochemistry and microbiology. The three will graduate May 4 during the university’s 222nd commencement ceremonies.
“Michael, Lydia and Katelyn have made incredible contributions to the University of Maine community. We are thrilled to recognize their achievements and proud to soon have them as part of our distinguished alumni network,” said UMaine President Joan Ferrini-Mundy. “Michael’s research, advocacy and outreach to improve legislation through public policy has already been influential in Maine and beyond. Lydia’s commitment as a scholar-athlete coupled with the research in which she has participated at the Advanced Structures and Composites Center show unwavering ambition and effectiveness. And Katelyn’s dedication to infectious disease research is rivaled only by the drive of her servant heart.
“The leadership and success of these three students will take them to great heights. I personally extend my deepest thanks to them for representing UMaine in the best possible way: through thoughtful action and unrelenting focus.”
Delorge is pursuing dual degrees in political science and biology. He crafted coursework focused on public health policy with the goal of generating skills to improve medical care. Originally a pre-med student, he altered his studies to meet his interests, spent class time integrating topics such as plant biology with substance use policy and sought to improve his experience by finding community in a way that joined leadership and public service.
A full Q&A with Delorge is online.
Gilmore is majoring in mechanical engineering and is a member of the Cross Country and Track & Field teams. On the accelerated track for a master’s degree in mechanical engineering, she is also an undergraduate research assistant at the Advanced Structures and Composites Center (ASCC). Coupled with her commitments as a scholar-athlete, Gilmore earned the respect of university faculty with her persistence and grit to overcome challenges and her service to the community at large.
A full Q&A with Gilmore is online.
Amero is an Honors College student double-majoring in biochemistry and microbiology. A young girl’s curiosity to identify the animals in her backyard bloomed into Amero’s determination to find and analyze new facets of science and biology. She works steadily in the laboratory and showcases genuine interest in what research may reveal about the natural world, firmly following the philosophy that scientists learn from their mistakes and the unexpected results.
A full Q&A with Amero is online.
Contact: Ashley Yates, ashley.depew@maine.edu