The University of Maine at Presque Isle is welcoming two new employees and announcing one new appointment at the start of the Spring 2014 semester.

Leigh Belair joins the University as Co-Director and Assistant Professor for Medical Laboratory Technology. Belair has been a long-time instructor with UMPI’s MLT program, and also served as a science teacher at Central Aroostook Junior-Senior High School from 2000-2014. She previously worked as a medical technologist at The Aroostook Medical Center. Belair earned her Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Laboratory Science in 1994, and her Master’s of Education degree in Instructional Technology in 2009, both from the University of Maine in Orono.

Pam Easler joins the University as the administrative specialist in the TRiO Upward Bound office. She comes to the University with experience in customer service, business management, and as a health center administrative assistant at Northern Maine Community College. Easler earned her Associate in Applied Science degree from NMCC in 2013.

In addition to these new hires, the University is welcoming a familiar face to lead its academic affairs office. Dr. Raymond Rice is serving as UMPI’s Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs starting Feb. 3, following the announcement that Dr. Michael Sonntag would be stepping down from the post to accept the top position at the University of South Carolina Sumter. Dr. Rice has served as a member of the English faculty for more than a decade and as the Chair of the College of Arts and Sciences for the past five years. In his work as chair, he has served on several systemwide task forces and committees. Dr. Rice earned his Bachelor’s degree from Dickinson College in 1989. He earned his Master’s degree in 1993 and his Ph.D. in 1998, both from the University of Connecticut.