The University of Maine at Presque Isle honored several employees for their years of service during the Employee Recognition event on May 9. This year’s event recognized employees who marked a milestone anniversary in 2023. Eighteen employees were recognized for their combined 240 years of service to the University.
Recognized for 35 years of service were Dr. Zhu-Qi Lu, Professor of Mathematics; and Ricky Wasson, Lead Facilities Maintenance Worker.
Recognized for 30 years of service was Jean Henderson, Professional Academic Advisor/Student Services Coordinator.
Recognized for 20 years of service were Danette Madore, College Access Coordinator; and Denise Trombley, Executive Assistant to the President and Provost.
Recognized for 15 years of service were Dr. Jacqui Lowman, Professor of Professional Communication and Journalism; and Donna White, Facilities Maintenance Worker.
Recognized for 10 years of service were Pam Easler, Administrative Specialist; Kim Masse, Mechanical Supervisor; and Sandra McDougal, Administrative Specialist.
Recognized for 5 years of service were Jennifer Ball, Administrative Specialist; Carrie Bosse, Early College Counselor; Matt Bridges, Lead Facilities Maintenance Worker; Dawn Bruso, Administrative Specialist; Jennifer Buzza, Senior Professional Academic Advisor; John Crane, Facilities Maintenance Worker; Shea Cushman, YourPace Admissions Coordinator; and Gavin Kane, Assistant Athletic Director.
During the recognition event, officials also honored retirees Jean Cashman, Associate Professor of Social Work; Dr. John DeFelice, Professor of History; Richard Gardiner, Director of Gentile Hall; Dr. Michael Knopp, Professor of Chemistry; Dr. Jacqui Lowman, Professor of Professional Communication and Journalism; Dr. Zhu-Qi Lu, Professor of Mathematics; Dr. Kevin McCartney, Professor of Geology; Dave Putnam, Associate Professor of Science; Gayla Shaw, Administrative Specialist; Fred Thomas, Director of Safety and Security; and Donna Underwood, Administrative Specialist.
This year’s Charles Bonin Work Ethic Award was presented to Rowena McPherson, Coordinator of Graphic Design, Social Media, and Photography. On October 3, 2013, in honor of Chief Financial Officer Charlie Bonin’s retirement, former President Linda Schott established this award to recognize an employee who demonstrates strong work ethic—including diligence, reliability, and initiative—and has strong principles that benefit the University of Maine at Presque Isle.
In addition, the John Haley Service Excellence Award was presented. This award was established to honor a campus community member who best embodies the UMPI Service Promise: “Excellence, Every Day!” as well as the University’s values of being Supportive, Ethical, Responsive, Visionary, Innovative, Collaborative, and Equitable. It is named in honor of John Haley, English Instructor and Director of University Experience, who passed away in September 2020. Haley was known for his commitment to campus and the time he took to connect with others, provide support, and help meet individual needs. This award was presented to Brian Morrison, Head Athletic Trainer.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have such a hard-working team of faculty and staff here at UMPI and are so grateful for their many dedicated years of service to campus,” UMPI President Ray Rice said. “Because of all of our employees, and the excellent work they do every day, our campus is able to provide high-quality, first-rate service to our students and our community.”
