The University of Maine at Fort Kent is proud to announce a historic milestone: the graduation of its inaugural Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) class at the university’s 143rd Commencement Exercises this May. This achievement marks the successful culmination of UMFK’s first standalone graduate-level nursing program, launched to address the growing need for advanced practice nurses in Maine and beyond.
The MSN program, introduced in 2022, offers two specialized tracks—Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Designed with flexibility in mind, the program is delivered entirely online through a 7-week course structure, allowing working nurses to balance their complex responsibilities while advancing their education.
“This is a truly momentous occasion to celebrate,” said UMFK President Dr. Deb Hedeen. “The graduation of our first MSN class reflects not only the hard work and dedication of our students and the vision of our faculty, but also our university’s commitment to advancing healthcare in Maine and beyond.”
The first MSN cohort comprises of dedicated professionals who have completed rigorous coursework and clinical training, equipping them to provide high-quality, specialized care in various healthcare settings. Their graduation not only signifies personal achievement but also represents a significant contribution to the healthcare workforce, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
“This first graduating class from UMFK’s Master of Science in Nursing program represents the heart of what we strive for in nursing education—integrity, excellence, and compassion,” said UMFK Dean of Nursing and Associate Provost for Academic Affairs Dr. Erin C. Soucy, RN. “These graduates entered our program during a time of great change in healthcare, and they’ve emerged as leaders ready to transform the profession. Their success is a testament not only to their commitment but also to the faculty who guided them and the vision that brought this program to life. We could not be more proud.”
UMFK’s Commencement ceremony will take place on May 10, 2025, at 10 a.m. at the UMFK Sports Center. This event will honor the graduates’ hard work and dedication, celebrating their readiness to take on advanced roles in the nursing profession.
For more information about UMFK’s Nursing programs, visit the UMFK Nursing Program webpage.