University of Southern Maine: A Legacy of Notable Alumni
The University of Southern Maine (USM) has a rich history of producing accomplished graduates who have made significant contributions to various fields. From arts and politics to business and public service, USM alumni have left their mark on Maine, the nation, and the world. This article explores the stories of some of USM's notable alumni, highlighting their achievements and the impact they have had in their respective domains.
A Foundation of Excellence
Evolving from Gorham Academy, USM originated in 1878 as Gorham Normal School. In 1924, the USM School of Business celebrated 100 years of business education in Portland, beginning with the first graduating class of Portland University’s College of Business Administration. Through mergers and name changes, the institution has grown into a comprehensive university with campuses in Gorham, Portland, and Lewiston-Auburn. USM's commitment to providing a "cost-effective" education, as well as "very reputable" nursing programs and "extremely strong" business programs, has attracted a diverse student body and fostered a culture of achievement.
Alumni in Arts and Letters
USM has produced several prominent figures in the arts and literary world:
- Tony Shalhoub: An acclaimed actor known for his roles in "Wings" and "Monk," Shalhoub has won multiple Primetime Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe Award for his comedic performances.
- Lois Lowry: A celebrated children's writer, Lowry is the author of "The Giver Quartet," "Number the Stars," and "Rabble Starkey." She is known for addressing complex themes in her works for young audiences.
- Cindy Williams Gutiérrez: An accomplished American poet and dramatist enriching the literary landscape.
- Kevin St. Jarre: An American teacher, author, and former soldier, contributing to both education and literature.
These alumni demonstrate USM's commitment to fostering creativity and artistic expression.
Alumni in Politics and Public Service
USM alumni have also made significant contributions to the political landscape:
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- Chellie Pingree: Serving as a U.S. Representative for Maine's 1st congressional district since 2009, Pingree represents most of the southern part of the state, including the Portland area.
- Kevan Jones: A British Labour Party politician, Jones served as a Member of Parliament for North Durham from 2001 to 2024 and has been a member of the House of Lords since 2024.
- Kate Snyder: Served as Mayor of Portland, Maine, from 2019 until 2023, after serving as executive director of the Portland Education Foundation.
- G. William Diamond: A Democratic politician, educator, and former Maine Secretary of State, Diamond currently serves in the Maine Senate representing Senate District 26.
- Mark Dion: Serving as Mayor of Portland since December 4, 2023, Dion is also a law enforcement officer and lawyer from Maine.
- Michael F. Brennan: A former Mayor of Portland, Maine, Brennan also served as a State Senator and Senate Majority Leader.
- Eloise Vitelli: Served as the majority leader of the Maine Senate from 2021 to 2024.
- Cleon H. Turner: A former state representative in Massachusetts, representing the First Barnstable District of Brewster.
- Stephen D. Lovejoy: A former member of the Maine House of Representatives, serving on the Education and Cultural Affairs Committee and the Government Oversight Committees.
- Tae Chong: Has advocated for immigrants, refugees and people of color for almost 30 years. He is the first Asian American elected to the Portland School Committee and Portland City Council.
These alumni have dedicated their careers to public service, shaping policy and advocating for their communities.
Alumni in Business and Entrepreneurship
USM has also produced successful business leaders and entrepreneurs:
- Ashley Tilas: A proud alumna who earned her degree in Marketing and Business Administration with a focus on Entrepreneurship in 2018. Ashley's career took off at ACMA, where she made a strong impact on market growth & development and marketing departments.
- Jacob Schoenberg: Studied marketing at USM and played on the men’s lacrosse team until he graduated in 2019. Since graduating Jacob has built a career in business.
- Nazari Hendersen: A highly driven and innovative student pursuing his business degree in small business and Entrepreneurship.
- Peter DelGreco: Serves as President and CEO of Maine & Company, attracting numerous companies to Maine.
These alumni exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit and the ability to succeed in the business world.
Alumni in Athletics
- Justin Pierce: Was a 2-year captain and 4-year letter winner for the Men’s Track and Field Program at USM. Since graduation he has generated more than $2 Million in Ticket Revenue.
Alumni in Social Work and Community Service
USM's School of Social Work has produced numerous graduates who are dedicated to serving their communities:
- Colby Williams: Founder and Executive Director of Counseling and Trauma Therapy Associates, a Mental Health Agency in Southern Maine.
- Heather Paquette: As the President of Good Shepherd Food Bank of Maine, she leads a dedicated team of hunger-relief professionals.
- Katherine Freund: An American activist for community based non-profit transportation for older adults and people with special needs.
- Dani Fazio and Noah Krell: Collaborated to open a co-working space for therapists in private practice who are dedicated to supporting the mental health and recovery needs of Maine’s LGBTQIA+ community.
These alumni are committed to making a positive impact on the lives of others, addressing critical social issues and providing essential services.
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Alumni in Military Service
- Margaret D. Klein: A former United States Navy officer who held the rank of rear admiral.
- John Currier: Vice Admiral John P. Currier was the 28th Vice Commandant of the United States Coast Guard.
- Dorothy A. Hogg: A retired lieutenant general of the United States Air Force who last served as the twenty-third Surgeon General of the United States Air Force and the first Surgeon General of the United States Space Force.
Faculty and Staff Contributions
In addition to its notable alumni, USM has also benefited from the contributions of dedicated faculty and staff:
- Alice Cash: Began her employment at the University of Southern Maine in November 1988 and retired from the School of Business in June 2018.
- Karmo Sanders: Joined the Theatre Department in 2017, bringing an indefatigable passion for theatre, comedy, playwriting, and teaching.
- Minor Rootes: Created a division of the English Department to teach Theatre/Speech courses independently, eventually leading to the creation of the Department of Theatre/Speech.
- Walter Ray Stump: A distinguished author, playwright and retired theatre professor at the University of Southern Maine.
- Charles Kading: Taught design and stagecraft at USM for over 30 years.
- Professor Power: Taught directing, play writing and acting as well as having directed main stage productions each year for the department’s season.
- Professor Steele: An award-winning playwright and drama critic, the author of four books on theater and film and a professional actor.
These individuals have played a crucial role in shaping the academic environment and fostering student success at USM.
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