Maine Memo — Welcome to Fall 2022

Dear University of Maine and University of Maine at Machias communities,

Welcome! I look forward to the fall semester all summer long, and I am so glad that we are here, together and in-person, again. For those of you who are new to our community, I wish you a hearty Maine hello!

You are joining students, faculty, and staff from all 50 states and more than 50 countries. Our students learn from and collaborate with world-class faculty whose teaching is informed by their nationally and internationally recognized achievements, and who look forward to having you join them in the field and in the lab, in the studio, and on the stage to make your own contributions and define tomorrow.

Our universities are student-centered, providing resources and experiential learning opportunities in and out of the classroom for you to explore so you can find your passion. That includes adventures in the bold beauty of the great Maine outdoors, getting involved in our many campus clubs and organizations, participating in intramural sports with your friends and classmates, and exploring your academic interests.

The University of Maine is the state’s only public research university and we have a national designation as R1. We’re research intense and innovation-focused. What that means to you is we have a breadth and depth of offerings that inform your UMaine and UMaine Machias learning experience. Whether you’re new on campus or returning after a summer away, we’re counting on you to get involved, use your talents, and find your voice. You have a role in shaping these communities.

For those of you who are coming back, you’ll notice that construction on the  Ferland Engineering Education and Design Center has been completed! Classes have been meeting in the building since Monday, and I encourage everyone to take a walk through the building. It is a spectacular addition to our campus. You will also see exciting progress being made on the new softball field on the north end of campus; we anticipate the project will be completed in time for the spring 2023 season. As you walk across our quad you will also see that North Stevens Hall has been renamed in honor of University of Maine alumna Karen Boudreau. The University of Maine Cooperative Extension’s Washington County Office moved to a new location this summer and now sits in the heart of the UMaine at Machias campus. Like you, we’ve been busy!

As you settle into the rhythm of a new semester, remember that this is a caring community where students find balance, engagement, and development in their studies and their lives. We will be here every step of the way to support you in this journey. That is the UMaine way!

To those ends, care for yourselves and for each other, ask for help, offer help, be kind, and remember that together we are stronger.

I wish you an exceptional semester and look forward to seeing you soon.

Go blue!

Joan Ferrini-Mundy
President