Little Franciscans of Mary Book

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book cover: Little Franciscans of Mary of Fort Kent’s St. Louis Convent and SchoolThe Acadian Archives at the University of Maine at Fort Kent will host a book launch for local author Laurel Daigle at 5 p.m. on May 21. The event celebrates the release of Daigle’s latest work, “Little Franciscans of Mary of Fort Kent’s St. Louis Convent and School.”

The book traces the educational role played by the Little Franciscans of Mary in the St. John Valley. Originally founded in Massachusetts before establishing a motherhouse in Baie Saint-Paul, Quebec, the Sisters first arrived in the region at the invitation of Fr. Joseph Marcoux of Wallagrass. In 1906, they expanded to Fort Kent under the invitation of Fr. Arthur Décary of St. Louis Parish.

Throughout the order’s local history, more than 100 Sisters served at the St. Louis School. Daigle’s research includes detailed biographies of the Sisters who shaped the school’s history or served the community for decades. The book features a foreword by Monsignor. Jean-Paul Labrie.

“We are honored to host Laurel and highlight his impressive research,” said Patrick Lacroix, director of the Acadian Archives. “This work will be a great complement to his prior book on Fort Kent as well as a must-read for local families.”

Daigle, a Fort Kent native and descendant of a 19th-century Acadian farming family, is a graduate of the Fort Kent State Normal School and Farmington State Teachers College. A veteran educator, he taught in Ashland and Fort Kent public schools and holds a Master of Arts from the Catholic University of America.

The book launch is free and open to the public. Daigle will be available to answer questions and discuss his research. Copies of the book will be available for purchase for $15.95.

For more information, please contact the Acadian Archives at 834-7535.

Shaniah Johnson Named to Team

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Shaniah Johnson kicks a soccer ball on the soccer fieldUniversity of Maine at Fort Kent women’s soccer team standout, Shaniah Johnson (‘27), recently was named as a midfielder to the country of Grenada’s senior women’s national football (soccer) team, it was announced by the Grenada Football Association.

Johnson, a St. George, Grenada native, joined the Grenadian national team in late February for the 29-team competition in the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) women’s qualifying round to fill six spots for the CONCACAF championship.  The competition also serves as a pathway to the 2027 International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) Women’s World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics.

Johnson’s first match with her national teammates was against Guatemala in Guatemala City.  While Grenada lost that contest, Johnson is expected to participate in Grenada’s next rounds of CONCACAF qualifying competition in a home match against the Cayman Islands on April 14 and an away match versus Bermuda on April 18.

This is not the first time that Johnson has been a member of a “Spice Isle” nation’s women’s national team.  Previously, she captained the Under 17 (U17) and Under 20 (U20) national teams.  Members of the senior women’s national team are known as the “Spice Girlz.”

“I am very happy to represent my country in the CONCACAF competition,” said Johnson.  “After tearing my ACL in 2023, I was not sure if I would ever be selected again. I watched from the sidelines, wishing I could be there. To finally be back is an amazing feeling,” she added.

The junior environmental studies major is much more than a key member of the women’s soccer team.  She is the epitome of a true student-athlete.

This past fall, Johnson was named a member of the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA) All-Academic Team for 2025.  Johnson has a 3.6 grade point average.

In addition to her performance on the field, Johnson is highly engaged in campus life. She is an active member of the Student Activities Board, the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, the Career Club, Bengal Executives, and the International Student Organization.  Johnson also serves as a tutor on campus, demonstrating her commitment to academic success and her willingness to support her peers.

Johnson’s international competition recognition comes as no surprise to her UMFK Lady Bengals Head Women’s Soccer Coach, Jermaine West.

“Shaniah has been a key contributor in the midfield for UMFK, demonstrating consistency, work rate, and tactical awareness throughout the season. As a box-to-box midfielder, she plays an important role in both the attacking and defensive phases of the game.  What separates Shaniah is her work ethic and commitment to the team. She covers significant grounds in each match, supports defensively, and contributes to maintaining team shape. Her willingness to do the ‘unseen work,’ tracking back, winning second balls, and linking play makes her an invaluable asset to the squad,” said West.

UMFK Athletic Director, Jason Coleman, observed, “It is incredibly significant for UMFK’s athletic program to have a current student-athlete receive this level of recognition. Achievements like this elevate not only the individual but the entire university community, reinforcing the strength and credibility of UMFK athletics on a broader stage. For the women’s soccer program specifically, this recognition highlights the quality of coaching, player development, and competitive environment that UMFK provides. It sends a strong message to prospective student-athletes that they can come to UMFK and not only compete but truly excel and gain meaningful recognition for their efforts.

“Moments like this are a source of immense pride, not just for the athletic department, but for the entire university community. To see one of our own reach this level of achievement is both inspiring and deeply affirming,” Coleman noted.

Johnson credits her playing time at UMFK as helping build and refine her soccer skills.

“Being a Lady Bengal has helped me gain confidence. My teammates, coaches and community helped me realize the impact that we have and how much more we can achieve: learning different styles of plays, developing a greater sense of the game and just having fun,” she said.

2026 Commencement Speaker

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headshot of Lisa Harvey-McPherson in business attireThe University of Maine at Fort Kent is pleased to announce Lisa Harvey-McPherson, a distinguished healthcare executive and nurse leader, will serve as the keynote speaker for the University’s 144th commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 9.

During the ceremony, Harvey-McPherson will also be awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters in recognition of her lifelong advocacy for the nursing profession.

“Lisa Harvey-McPherson is not only a leader in nursing and healthcare, but she is also a mentor and advocate who has touched countless lives,” said UMFK President Deb Hedeen. “It is a joy to recognize her with an honorary doctorate degree and to have her share her insights and inspiration with our graduates at this year’s commencement.”

Harvey-McPherson is the vice president of governance relations at Northern Light Health. In this role, she shapes legislative agendas and policies on healthcare and healthcare education, acting as a primary liaison between the healthcare system and elected officials at both the state and federal levels.

A veteran of the industry, she earned a Bachelor of Science in nursing from the University of Southern Maine in 1984 and a Master of Business Administration from Thomas College in 1987 and completed postgraduate studies at the University of Southern Maine in 1990.

Her professional career includes leadership roles as nurse manager at Kennebec Valley Regional Health Center in Waterville and director of Waldo County Home Health Care in Belfast.

Throughout her career, Harvey-McPherson has been a driving force in nursing policy. She was instrumental in revitalizing the Maine Nursing Action Coalition, which aligned state efforts with national initiatives to address nursing workforce shortages.   Her legislative work was featured in a 2008 Nursing Outlook article, “Maine’s Nursing Workforce Legislation – Lessons from a Rural State.”

Harvey-McPherson has earned numerous accolades, including Maine Nursing Leader of the Year by the Organization of Maine Nursing Leadership; Advocate of the Year by the Home Care & Hospice Alliance of Maine; and Advocacy Award for Individual Achievement from the American Organization of Nurse Leaders.

Beyond her policy work, Harvey-McPherson is recognized for her commitment to mentorship, guiding nurses at every stage of their careers. She continues to serve on several state and national boards, ensuring a strong voice for Maine’s healthcare providers and patients.

2026 Scholars’ Symposium

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The University of Maine at Fort Kent will host its 15th annual Scholars’ Symposium on Wednesday, April 29, highlighting students’ research and academic excellence.

The symposium begins Wednesday morning with a welcome from UMFK President and Provost Deb Hedeen, followed by the presentation of the undergraduate academic awards. The schedule then transitions to student-led presentations.

“UMFK’s Scholars’ Symposium is one of the highlights of our academic year,” Hedeen said. “It is a celebration of student research, academic excellence, and the incredible work happening across our campus.”

Immediately following the student presentations, UMFK faculty members will deliver “Lightning Talks,” five-minute presentations that will focus on a single topic, project, or technique.

This year’s keynote speaker of the symposium will be Dr. Meredith McFadden, a research scientist in AI Ethics at Northeastern University. McFadden specializes in translating philosophical concepts into practical frameworks for technology. Her work focuses on ensuring autonomous systems and AI-driven decisions remain ethical, and she frequently develops responsible-use guidelines for global organizations.

McFadden has led high-stakes projects for the defense and tech industries, including a DARPA-funded study on the ethics of autonomous weapons. A frequent public commentator and contributor to academic journals, she holds a Ph.D. in philosophy from UC Riverside. McFadden is recognized for making complex topics accessible, with writings ranging from disability rights and climate change to fairness in intellectual valuation.

“It is exciting to see students apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to meaningful, real-world research projects and share their findings with the broader community,” said Dr. Stéphanie Landry, assistant professor of forestry and chair of the symposium committee.

The afternoon will continue to highlight students’ research with poster sessions at the Sports Center from 1 to 3 p.m.

This portion of the event is open to the public and provides a terrific opportunity for community members of all ages to interact with UMFK students and learn more from subject-matter experts.

The day’s events will conclude with an awards presentation to honor exemplary student work.

UMFK offers multiple degree paths which lead to associate, bachelor, master and doctorate degrees. For a complete program listing and more information, please visit the UMFK website.

For more information on the Scholars’ Symposium, please contact Landry at stephanie.landry1@maine.edu.

2026 Bengal Bound Day

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incoming students gather while attending Bengal Bound DayThe Admissions Office at the University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) will host Bengal Bound Day on Friday, March 27, offering accepted and prospective students a firsthand look at campus life and academic opportunities.

The event kicks off at 8:30 a.m. in the Nadeau Hall conference room with light refreshments and a warm UMFK welcome. This is your chance to chat one-on-one with current students, faculty, and our dedicated staff. Whether you have questions about financial aid, want to hear the “real story” from a Resident Assistant (RA), or want to meet our coaches and student club leaders, we’ll have everyone in one place ready to help you envision your life on campus.

The highlight of the event will feature hands-on learning experiences for students by joining faculty in their classrooms and lab spaces to get a feel for the programs they are interested in.

The student advising and services session will be held at the Blake Library. This is a comprehensive opportunity to get questions answered, secure your classes, and connect with the support services that will fuel your success. During this interactive event, students will meet one-on-one with faculty and advisors to navigate degree requirements and finalize their fall 2026 class schedules. Beyond academic planning, families can explore campus life through resource tables featuring Financial Aid, Housing, and Athletics, while students participate in the reflective “Dear Future Me” activity to set their personal goals.

Ever wonder what college life is really like? Here’s your chance to grill the experts. Join our faculty panel for an honest conversation about academics, expectations, and everything in between in Powell Hall, room 123.

“Events like Bengal Bound Day help students move from simply being admitted to truly seeing themselves as part of the UMFK community,” said Jeremy Bouford, UMFK director of admissions. “When they meet faculty, connect with current students, and explore the programs they’re excited about, it becomes easier to picture the next chapter of their story at UMFK.”

Attendees will enjoy lunch in the Nowland Hall dining room. This will be followed by a session where attendees can receive same-day admissions decisions, confirm their attendance, and have their deposit waived. At that time, they can also register for classes or schedule a future time to do so. Students should come prepared with their supporting documentation.

Learn more about the event at the Bengal Bound page.

To register, contact the UMFK Admissions Office at 207-834-7600, toll-free at 1-888-879-8635, or email umfklife@maine.edu.

MS in Homeland Security

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a homeland security employee works on a computerThe University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) has recently announced a new online Master of Science in Homeland Security designed to prepare new graduates and professionals to lead in an increasingly complex security environment shaped by cyber threats, natural disasters and public health emergencies.

The fully online graduate program builds on UMFK’s long-standing strengths in criminal justice and public safety while providing a flexible pathway for working professionals seeking to advance their careers in law enforcement, emergency management, intelligence, military service and cybersecurity.

Students will develop a broad understanding of the homeland security landscape, including intelligence analysis, emergency management, critical infrastructure protection, cybersecurity policy and counterterrorism. The curriculum emphasizes applied research, policy analysis and strategic problem-solving, preparing graduates to assess risks, analyze emerging threats and develop informed solutions across public, private and nonprofit sectors.

“Through the leadership of our faculty in building on UMFK’s long-standing strengths in criminal justice and public safety, we have developed a graduate program that expands access to advanced education while preparing professionals to lead in complex security environments,” said UMFK President Deb Hedeen. “This program reflects UMFK’s commitment to expanding access to high-quality graduate education while preparing leaders who can strengthen public safety and serve their communities.”

Through collaboration with the University of Maine at Augusta for three courses, students will also gain graduate-level experience in cybersecurity, cyber law and incident response—skills that are increasingly essential for today’s homeland security professionals.

A culminating capstone project allows students to synthesize their learning and demonstrate professional competencies through real-world security challenges.

“Our goal is to give students the tools to think strategically about complex threats and to respond effectively in high-pressure situations,” said Matthew Curran, criminal justice lecturer and faculty lead for the program. “Whether they are working in law enforcement, emergency management, or intelligence, graduates will be better prepared to analyze risk, coordinate across agencies and protect the communities they serve.”

Designed for schedule flexibility, the program is delivered fully online through asynchronous courses offered in both seven-week and fifteen-week formats. Students may complete the degree in as few as 12 months, depending on their course schedule.

Graduates of the program may pursue careers with agencies such as the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Transportation Security Administration, as well as state and local public safety agencies and private-sector security and risk management organizations.

The UMFK Admissions office is now accepting applications for Fall 2026 enrollment. Learn more and apply at the Online MS in Homeland Security page.

Bengal Bound Day – March 27, 2026. Save the Date!

2026 Sucrerie

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a female student stands with a female staff member; the staff member is wearing Acadian garbThe University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) will celebrate the region’s deep-rooted cultural traditions by hosting its annual “Sucrerie” on Thursday, March 26, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Nowland Hall.

The tradition has historically drawn more than 200 community members to campus. This year’s event features a traditional maple taffy pull on the snow, an Acadian meal, and live entertainment by The Acadian Singers.

Northwoods Nectar will be on-site to provide free maple taffy served over fresh snow. UMFK employees will be dressed in authentic Acadian attire, provided by the Acadian Festival committee, and will serve fresh ployes made with Bouchard Family Farms mix.

A full meal and live musical entertainment are available for $15 per plate. The event committee collaborated with Sodexo dining services to curate a menu reflecting local heritage.

Specific parking areas will be designated for community members.

The “Sucrerie” is part of UMFK’s ongoing mission to preserve and foster an appreciation for Acadian and Franco-American culture.

For more information, contact the University Relations office at 834-7557 or by e-mail at: susan.tardie@maine.edu.

Women and The Wind

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The University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) will host a special showing of the documentary Women & The Wind on Friday, March 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. in Nadeau Hall.

Admission for community members is $10 per person. The event is free for UMFK students. All attendees will receive complimentary popcorn and a beverage.

This film follows three women as they sail 3,000 miles across the North Atlantic on a 50-year-old wooden boat named Mara Noka to track how plastic waste travels from our shores to the deep ocean.

The voyage began in North Carolina after a year of rebuilding the vintage vessel and a month of waiting for the right winds. While skipper Kiana was a veteran of solo ocean passages, her crewmates Lærke and Alizé began the journey with little to no sailing experience. What started as a mission to document the environmental impact of land-based waste soon evolved into a raw test of human endurance and spiritual connection.

Women & The Wind is more than a sailing film; it is a call to recognize the ocean as the life-force of our planet. By recording every piece of floating debris encountered daily, the crew documented the grim reality of the North Atlantic gyre, a large system of circulating ocean currents where plastic remains for years, breaking down into microplastics. The project was created to turn these environmental facts into a personal story that inspires people to protect our waters.

Proceeds will benefit the International Student Organization to provide bedding, snacks, and basic toiletries for new incoming international students living in the residential halls on campus.

For information on the event, please contact Stacy Martin, UMFK student life coordinator, at stacy.martin@maine.edu.

Editor’s Note: This film is not rated and includes scenes containing nudity. Viewer discretion is advised.

Aroostook County Spelling Bee

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Harmony Hoyt, spelling bee winner, poses with her awarded plaqueHarmony Hoyt, a sixth-grade student at Madawaska Middle/High School, took home the top prize at the Aroostook County Spelling Bee held Thursday, Feb. 12, at the University of Maine at Fort Kent.

Hoyt secured her victory by correctly spelling the word “baptismal.” She will now advance to the Maine State Spelling Bee, scheduled for Saturday, March 21, at Bowdoin College in Brunswick.

The regional competition featured 16 students from across the county. Each participant earned their spot by placing as a winner or runner-up in preliminary rounds at their respective schools. Participating schools included:

  • Ashland District School
  • Easton Junior/Senior High School
  • Fort Kent Elementary and Valley Rivers Middle School
  • Greater Houlton Christian Academy
  • Madawaska Elementary and Madawaska Middle High School
  • Mill Pond School and Hodgdon Middle High School
  • M.S.A.D. 33
  • Woodland Consolidated School

Maine School Administrative District 27 sponsored the event. The competition was coordinated by Travis Lynn, a seventh-grade English teacher at Valley Rivers Middle School.

The event was free and open to the public, drawing supporters from across Northern Maine to cheer on the region’s top spellers.

BS in Wildlife Management

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A UMFK student assists with tick monitoring during the annual moose hunt
A University of Maine at Fort Kent student assists with tick monitoring during the annual moose hunt. This spring, the university launched a new Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Management program that balances sustainability and habitat management with human demand for natural resources and cultural values.

The University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) has launched a new Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Management degree program, designed to prepare students for careers protecting and sustaining wildlife and habitats.

Built on UMFK’s long-standing strengths in natural sciences, the new program emphasizes hands-on, experiential learning in one of the most ecologically diverse regions of the Northeast. Students will gain field-based experience in wildlife ecology, habitat management and sustainable resource management practices while studying in northern Maine’s forests, rivers and wildlife habitats.

“The Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Management reflects both our mission and our geography,” said UMFK President Deb Hedeen. “Our location provides an extraordinary living laboratory, and this program allows students to apply science in real-world settings while preparing for meaningful careers in wildlife management and ecology.”

The program complements UMFK’s existing offerings in Biology, Environmental Studies, Forestry, Criminal Justice and Conservation Law Enforcement, creating interdisciplinary opportunities for students to tailor their education to specific career goals. Courses are taught by credentialed faculty with field and professional expertise in natural sciences, integrating classroom learning with hands-on applied fieldwork.

“Our goal is to ensure students graduate with both strong scientific knowledge and meaningful field experience,” said Stephanie Landry, assistant professor of Forestry and lead faculty member for the program. “From conducting field research to analyzing habitat conditions, students will engage directly with the ecosystems they are studying. That hands-on approach builds confidence and prepares them to step into professional roles immediately after graduation.”

Designed for students driven to promote sustainable wildlife and natural resource management, the curriculum blends science, sustainability and practical experience. Graduates will be prepared for roles in wildlife management, habitat restoration, conservation science and related fields at the local, state and federal levels. The university’s proximity to the North Maine Woods and campus-adjacent Fish River makes it an ideal location for students to learn.

Graduates of the program will meet the academic requirements for Associate Wildlife Biologist® certification through The Wildlife Society, providing graduates with a competitive edge in the job market.

Potential employers for graduates include state wildlife and natural resource agencies, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, local and regional land trusts and environmental monitoring organizations.

The UMFK Admissions office is now accepting applications for the fall 2026 semester. To learn more about the program, visit the Wildlife Management webpage.