ORONO — The 2017 class of Maine Policy Scholars was recently honored during a special graduation ceremony at the Buchanan Alumni House on the University of Maine campus in Orono.

One student from each campus of the University of Maine system pursued a yearlong program of applied research in the area of Maine public policy. Issues addressed included online learning, bee conservation, and protection from abuse orders.

The 2017 scholars are Julianne McLaughlin, University of Maine at Farmington; Idella Thompson, University of Maine at Presque Isle; Shawn Cyr, University of Maine at Fort Kent; Emma-Marie Banks, University of Maine at Augusta; Alyssa de Silva, University of Maine at Machias; and Hannah Cole, University of Maine.

The scholars presented their policy recommendations to a panel that included Ben Breadmore, Holden town manager and MPS class of ’10; Emily Cain, former legislator; Steve Rowe, MaineCF president and CEO; and Tony Cox, business owner and son of program founder Peter Cox. The discussions were moderated by the Honorable Elizabeth Mitchell.

During the academic year, the scholars work with faculty advisors to research a policy issue facing Maine. They produce a report, in the form of a memo to the governor or appropriate policymaker, which outlines the issue and offers policy solutions. The memos are available online.

The Maine Policy Scholars program is managed by the Margaret Chase Smith Policy Center in partnership with the Maine Community Foundation.

A statewide organization with offices in Ellsworth and Portland, the Maine Community Foundation works with donors and other partners to improve the quality of life for all Maine people. 

FMI: www.mainecf.org or 1-877- 700-6800.

Maine Policy Scholars, from left, are Julianne McLaughlin, University of Maine at Farmington; Idella Thompson, University of Maine at Presque Isle; Shawn Cyr, University of Maine at Fort Kent; Emma-Marie Banks, University of Maine at Augusta; Alyssa de Silva, University of Maine at Machias; Hannah Cole, University of Maine.


Only subscribers are eligible to post comments. Please subscribe or login first for digital access. Here’s why.

Use the form below to reset your password. When you've submitted your account email, we will send an email with a reset code.

filed under: