Across the United States and within the University of Maine System (UMS), scholarship displacement is a common concern for students and donors. There is a lack of transparency in the process of wholly or partially subsidizing financial aid using funds granted by private scholarship providers. 

A college or university may reduce the amount of financial aid provided by its institution when students are awarded outside funds. California, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Washington passed legislation to prohibit or limit scholarship displacement. 

The School of Forest Resources (SFR) receives the most endowments toward scholarships at UMaine, which often serves as a drawing factor for prospective students. An anonymous third-year student in the Forestry Department expressed frustration shared among their peers and faculty members because the purposes behind SFR-related donations are fixed, yet donor expectations are not being adhered to.

“A lot of the donors are significantly opposed to the way the University of Maine runs as a business first and an academic system second. These donors understand that the SFR supports their students and that is their primary goal,” the anonymous student said. “Donors are more than happy to provide financial support, job support, offer internships, all these different things to continue the success of that department.”

Every March, there is an opportunity to apply for outside grants, which begin the following semester and are split to cover the academic year. Forestry students provide donors with a brief essay to lay out plans for the funding and explain how it contributes to their professional goals. A committee of SFR faculty, staff and donors decides who should be awarded the money toward the end of the month. In April, there is a luncheon for donors to network with the chosen students and celebrate their accomplishments.

The money granted is technically allocated toward student fees. For students enrolled in SFR affiliated programs as recent as fall 2023 who receive merit aid, it is not additional to the scholarship provided by UMaine but rather replaces it. Those enrolled before fall 2023 are grandfathered in and will continue to receive grants on top of their predetermined scholarships. Some prospective students who fall under the new precedent remain uninformed about its terms. 

Hypothetically, if a new student is promised $20,000 in aid from UMaine and later selected by an SFR alumni to receive a $5,000 grant, their merit scholarship reduces to $15,000. The $5000 is replaced by SFR funds, allowing the original total to remain. In that sense, the University is still fulfilling its commitment to cut $20,000 from tuition. But where exactly does the $5,000 earned by the student go? While a written check is issued for the student, the money is indirectly distributed toward unknown funding initiatives. 

There is speculation in terms of whether or not donors are made aware that the money given to specific students does not, in any way, enhance their academic aspirations. According to the UMaine webpage, donation recipients are expected to demonstrate gratitude for funding that essentially disappears. 

“Many donors appreciate hearing directly from the students who benefit from their scholarships. This communication helps donors understand the positive impact of their generosity. As a result, we ask all scholarship recipients to write a letter of appreciation upon request,” the UMaine webpage states.

While it is an honor to be chosen as a recipient, how can students properly thank the individuals who provide additional support when the finances are not accessible to them? There is no clarity regarding where the money removed from UMaine scholarships is allocated.

“Scholarship amounts are a financial commitment made to students by the University of Maine. Some or all of the commitment funds may be replaced on the financial aid offered by other Federal, University, and Endowed scholarships and/or grants,” states the 2024 to 2025 academic year terms and conditions page.

Many believe  students who earn additional scholarships should have financial freedom in terms of how the money is spent, so long as it aligns with the intent of corresponding private scholarship providers. 

The anonymous student commends SFR staff for advocating on behalf of students while also considering their roles and those of stakeholders. There is unease about potential pushback from the UMS due to the lucrative nature of its subsidization process. 

Moreover, the student claims some faculty members are concerned about threats to their positions but hope to solve the problem with administration directly. Despite having no control over scholarship subsidization, the responsibility to break the news to research partners falls on faculty, putting them in a difficult middleman position.   

“It’s going to slowly start coming out. I think that faculty members are very careful but also very transparent about the way they are curating that narrative and what they’re telling to students,” said the anonymous student. “They want to be honest but also don’t want to cause panic. One of the big things they do have to consider is relationship with donors.”

SFR scholarship applications closed on March 29. The donor luncheon (invite-only) on April 5 will function as more of an open conversation. Students have an opportunity to speak on how scholarship displacement has impacted them and hear the perspective of donors.  

The anonymous forestry student insisted that action must be taken at a legislative level because the UMS is neither transparent nor accessible, and that an outside body should assess the situation objectively. 

“Education should not be transactional to this degree, and that’s the problem we’re facing. It’s incredibly disappointing to see it,” the student said.

The UMaine Board of Trustees (BoT) responded to the concerns in an official statement.

“Merit scholarships and institutional grants are a financial commitment to students by the University of Maine and may be funded by other UMaine scholarships. Scholarships are made possible through the gifts of UMaine friends and alumni who have chosen to generously share their resources with the university and our students,” said the BoT. “We always honor donors’ intentions to support our students’ goals by ensuring all foundation and donor awards comply with donor wishes as stated in the scholarship criteria.”

Across the United States and within the University of Maine System (UMS), scholarship displacement is a common concern for students and donors. There is a lack of transparency in the process of wholly or partially subsidizing financial aid using funds granted by private scholarship providers. 

A college or university may reduce the amount of financial aid provided by its institution when students are awarded outside funds. California, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Washington passed legislation to prohibit or limit scholarship displacement. 

The School of Forest Resources (SFR) receives the most endowments toward scholarships at UMaine, which often serves as a drawing factor for prospective students. An anonymous third-year student in the Forestry Department expressed frustration shared among their peers and faculty members because the purposes behind SFR-related donations are fixed, yet donor expectations are not being adhered to.

“A lot of the donors are significantly opposed to the way the University of Maine runs as a business first and an academic system second. These donors understand that the SFR supports their students and that is their primary goal,” the anonymous student said. “Donors are more than happy to provide financial support, job support, offer internships, all these different things to continue the success of that department.”

Every March, there is an opportunity to apply for outside grants, which begin the following semester and are split to cover the academic year. Forestry students provide donors with a brief essay to lay out plans for the funding and explain how it contributes to their professional goals. A committee of SFR faculty, staff and donors decides who should be awarded the money toward the end of the month. In April, there is a luncheon for donors to network with the chosen students and celebrate their accomplishments.

The money granted is technically allocated toward student fees. For students enrolled in SFR affiliated programs as recent as fall 2023 who receive merit aid, it is not additional to the scholarship provided by UMaine but rather replaces it. Those enrolled before fall 2023 are grandfathered in and will continue to receive grants on top of their predetermined scholarships. Some prospective students who fall under the new precedent remain uninformed about its terms. 

Hypothetically, if a new student is promised $20,000 in aid from UMaine and later selected by an SFR alumni to receive a $5,000 grant, their merit scholarship reduces to $15,000. The $5000 is replaced by SFR funds, allowing the original total to remain. In that sense, the University is still fulfilling its commitment to cut $20,000 from tuition. But where exactly does the $5,000 earned by the student go? While a written check is issued for the student, the money is indirectly distributed toward unknown funding initiatives. 

There is speculation in terms of whether or not donors are made aware that the money given to specific students does not, in any way, enhance their academic aspirations. According to the UMaine webpage, donation recipients are expected to demonstrate gratitude for funding that essentially disappears. 

“Many donors appreciate hearing directly from the students who benefit from their scholarships. This communication helps donors understand the positive impact of their generosity. As a result, we ask all scholarship recipients to write a letter of appreciation upon request,” the UMaine webpage states.

While it is an honor to be chosen as a recipient, how can students properly thank the individuals who provide additional support when the finances are not accessible to them? There is no clarity regarding where the money removed from UMaine scholarships is allocated.

“Scholarship amounts are a financial commitment made to students by the University of Maine. Some or all of the commitment funds may be replaced on the financial aid offered by other Federal, University, and Endowed scholarships and/or grants,” states the 2024 to 2025 academic year terms and conditions page.

Many believe  students who earn additional scholarships should have financial freedom in terms of how the money is spent, so long as it aligns with the intent of corresponding private scholarship providers. 

The anonymous student commends SFR staff for advocating on behalf of students while also considering their roles and those of stakeholders. There is unease about potential pushback from the UMS due to the lucrative nature of its subsidization process. 

Moreover, the student claims some faculty members are concerned about threats to their positions but hope to solve the problem with administration directly. Despite having no control over scholarship subsidization, the responsibility to break the news to research partners falls on faculty, putting them in a difficult middleman position.   

“It’s going to slowly start coming out. I think that faculty members are very careful but also very transparent about the way they are curating that narrative and what they’re telling to students,” said the anonymous student. “They want to be honest but also don’t want to cause panic. One of the big things they do have to consider is relationship with donors.”

SFR scholarship applications closed on March 29. The donor luncheon (invite-only) on April 5 will function as more of an open conversation. Students have an opportunity to speak on how scholarship displacement has impacted them and hear the perspective of donors.  

The anonymous forestry student insisted that action must be taken at a legislative level because the UMS is neither transparent nor accessible, and that an outside body should assess the situation objectively. 

“Education should not be transactional to this degree, and that’s the problem we’re facing. It’s incredibly disappointing to see it,” the student said.

The UMaine Board of Trustees (BoT) responded to the concerns in an official statement.

“Merit scholarships and institutional grants are a financial commitment to students by the University of Maine and may be funded by other UMaine scholarships. Scholarships are made possible through the gifts of UMaine friends and alumni who have chosen to generously share their resources with the university and our students,” said the BoT. “We always honor donors’ intentions to support our students’ goals by ensuring all foundation and donor awards comply with donor wishes as stated in the scholarship criteria.”

Across the United States and within the University of Maine System (UMS), scholarship displacement is a common concern for students and donors. There is a lack of transparency in the process of wholly or partially subsidizing financial aid using funds granted by private scholarship providers. 

A college or university may reduce the amount of financial aid provided by its institution when students are awarded outside funds. California, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Washington passed legislation to prohibit or limit scholarship displacement. 

The School of Forest Resources (SFR) receives the most endowments toward scholarships at UMaine, which often serves as a drawing factor for prospective students. An anonymous third-year student in the Forestry Department expressed frustration shared among their peers and faculty members because the purposes behind SFR-related donations are fixed, yet donor expectations are not being adhered to.

“A lot of the donors are significantly opposed to the way the University of Maine runs as a business first and an academic system second. These donors understand that the SFR supports their students and that is their primary goal,” the anonymous student said. “Donors are more than happy to provide financial support, job support, offer internships, all these different things to continue the success of that department.”

Every March, there is an opportunity to apply for outside grants, which begin the following semester and are split to cover the academic year. Forestry students provide donors with a brief essay to lay out plans for the funding and explain how it contributes to their professional goals. A committee of SFR faculty, staff and donors decides who should be awarded the money toward the end of the month. In April, there is a luncheon for donors to network with the chosen students and celebrate their accomplishments.

The money granted is technically allocated toward student fees. For students enrolled in SFR affiliated programs as recent as fall 2023 who receive merit aid, it is not additional to the scholarship provided by UMaine but rather replaces it. Those enrolled before fall 2023 are grandfathered in and will continue to receive grants on top of their predetermined scholarships. Some prospective students who fall under the new precedent remain uninformed about its terms. 

Hypothetically, if a new student is promised $20,000 in aid from UMaine and later selected by an SFR alumni to receive a $5,000 grant, their merit scholarship reduces to $15,000. The $5000 is replaced by SFR funds, allowing the original total to remain. In that sense, the University is still fulfilling its commitment to cut $20,000 from tuition. But where exactly does the $5,000 earned by the student go? While a written check is issued for the student, the money is indirectly distributed toward unknown funding initiatives. 

There is speculation in terms of whether or not donors are made aware that the money given to specific students does not, in any way, enhance their academic aspirations. According to the UMaine webpage, donation recipients are expected to demonstrate gratitude for funding that essentially disappears. 

“Many donors appreciate hearing directly from the students who benefit from their scholarships. This communication helps donors understand the positive impact of their generosity. As a result, we ask all scholarship recipients to write a letter of appreciation upon request,” the UMaine webpage states.

While it is an honor to be chosen as a recipient, how can students properly thank the individuals who provide additional support when the finances are not accessible to them? There is no clarity regarding where the money removed from UMaine scholarships is allocated.

“Scholarship amounts are a financial commitment made to students by the University of Maine. Some or all of the commitment funds may be replaced on the financial aid offered by other Federal, University, and Endowed scholarships and/or grants,” states the 2024 to 2025 academic year terms and conditions page.

Many believe students who earn additional scholarships should have financial freedom in terms of how the money is spent, so long as it aligns with the intent of corresponding private scholarship providers. 

The anonymous student commends SFR staff for advocating on behalf of students while also considering their roles and those of stakeholders. There is unease about potential pushback from administration due to the lucrative nature of its subsidization process. 

Moreover, the student claims some faculty members are concerned about threats to their positions but hope to solve the problem with administration directly. Despite having no control over scholarship subsidization, the responsibility to break the news to research partners falls on faculty, putting them in a difficult middleman position.   

“It’s going to slowly start coming out. I think that faculty members are very careful but also very transparent about the way they are curating that narrative and what they’re telling to students,” said the anonymous student. “They want to be honest but also don’t want to cause panic. One of the big things they do have to consider is relationship with donors.”

SFR scholarship applications closed on March 29. The donor luncheon (invite-only) on April 5 will function as more of an open conversation. Students have an opportunity to speak on how scholarship displacement has impacted them and hear the perspective of donors.  

The anonymous forestry student insisted that action must be taken at a legislative level because the administration is neither transparent nor accessible, and that an outside body should assess the situation objectively. 

“Education should not be transactional to this degree, and that’s the problem we’re facing. It’s incredibly disappointing to see it,” the student said.

UMaine responded to the concerns in an official statement.

“Merit scholarships and institutional grants are a financial commitment to students by the University of Maine and may be funded by other UMaine scholarships. Scholarships are made possible through the gifts of UMaine friends and alumni who have chosen to generously share their resources with the university and our students,” said UMaine. “We always honor donors’ intentions to support our students’ goals by ensuring all foundation and donor awards comply with donor wishes as stated in the scholarship criteria.”

03/26:

Around 11 a.m., a property damage crash occurred in the Aroostook parking lot. A student was backing out and scratched another student’s vehicle. The damage was non-reportable because repairs are less than $2,000.

At 1:30 p.m., an information complaint was issued from the Memorial Union regarding a protest on campus. The University of Maine Police Department (UMPD) was present at the University of Maine Graduate Workers Union rally. No action was necessary.

At about 2 p.m., theft took place at the bookstore. A male (assumed student) had a pair of shorts in his hand, went over to the mug section and stuffed the shorts down his pants before leaving without paying. 

03/27:

Around 2:30 p.m., a property damage crash in the Belgrade parking lot was reported late, as the accident took place two days ago. Two students were involved and previously deemed the damage non-reportable. 

At 4 p.m., UMPD made an agency assist to the Orono Fire Department. At Aubert Hall, a male student was trapped in the freight elevator.

Around 11:30 p.m, parking services issued an information complaint. A ticketed vehicle prior remained marked in a handicapped spot. According to Parking Services, the driver is a repeat offender. The vehicle was towed. 

03/30:

At 1 a.m., a suspicious complaint was made regarding a vehicle near the south York parking lot. A student’s vehicle broke down and they were waiting for AAA to arrive. 

At about 2 a.m., there was a noise problem in Knox Hall. A male student was playing loud music from his room for the second time. UMPD made contact with the student and sent the case to conduct. 

03/31:

Around 10 a.m., there was a property damage crash in the Knox Hall parking lot. Two students backed out of their spaces simultaneously and hit bumpers. 

04/01:

At 8 a.m., criminal mischief took place at Dunn Hall. A closet inside the gender neutral bathroom was vandalized with “SOLL” written in red marker. 

Around 10 a.m., similar criminal mischief was discovered in Fogler Library. “SOLL” graffiti was written again in the men’s restroom.

Around 3:30 p.m., a property damage crash occurred in the New Balance parking lot. A female student exited the gym and noticed a dent in her vehicle. Her bumper is rubber so it was just a black mark that rubbed off. The non-permanent damage was still reported. 

Half past 7 p.m., criminal mischief occurred at Williams Hall. “IZZY ROT” was written in a bathroom stall but crossed out. There was also a message which asked “What act of kindness have you done today?” and an illustration of a mosquito wearing a top hat. 

At 11:30 p.m., drugs were reported in Oxford Hall. A strong odor of marijuana was narrowed down to a male student’s room. The resident was located and questioned. He came clean, and the case was sent to conduct.

3/24 to 3/30:

3/24: At 11:98 a.m. a red bicycle was sighted outside of the Ferland Engineering Education and Design Center (FEEDC). I slashed the tires because bikes suck.

3/25: At 1:12 p.m. a blue bicycle was spotted outside Fogler Library. The brake line was cut, so now the proud owner can stop doing bicycle activities.

At 4:20 p.m. I saw a bike stare at me maliciously. Now it’s dead.

3/26: 12:34 p.m. an infant was strategically placed on a bicycle. We don’t know where it went lol. It’s gone.

3/27: A bicycle ran over a freshman (LITTLE KID). The act was believed to be a hate crime. Stay vigilant as the bike is still on the loose.

At 8:00 p.m. a bicycle ate the leftover chicken I was saving. I’m now requesting it owes me $14 through venmo. That was my chicken.

3/29: At 3:00 a.m. your mom gave me some of her famous cherry flavored muffins.

At 6:00 p.m. I ran into your mom at the baseball game (YRMUM), she said that she misses me. There could possibly be a bike involved in this encounter, but we’re not sure.

3/30: At 8:00 p.m. The Maine Steiners aggressively biked around the mall and rapped Drake (CALLMEONMYCELLPHONE). I’m lying..that didn’t actually happen, but I’m waiting for the day that it does.

A proposal pushed by U.S. Senator Susan Collins of Maine, passed by the Senate and signed into law by President Joe Biden allocates $4 million toward the University of Maine BioHome3D project. The Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) request falls within the Fiscal Year 2024 Energy and Water Developments Appropriation Bill. Collins is vice chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee.

The BioHome3D, facilitated by the Advanced Structures and Composites Center, is a 3D-printed house made entirely of recycled forest materials. Its economical and sustainable method of construction plan to alleviate the housing crisis in Maine. The federal funding contributes to further research and development, supporting an expansion of UMaine’s innovative technology. Specifically, the funding aids the advancement of wood residuals used for manufacturing purposes to elevate printing capabilities. 

“I went to the ribbon-cutting for that and couldn’t believe how nice it was,” said Collins. “The fact that there is such strong, I would say even unprecedented state, national and international interest shows the promise of this technology.” 

The 600-square-foot prototype on campus withstood harsh winter tests. Collins emphasized that the severe affordable housing problem is not unique to Maine and affects citizens all across the country. She hopes that the proven success of sustainable homes will bring forth an international expansion of its technology. 

The Penquis Community Action Program is a non-profit agency that serves low-income residents in the Penobscot and Piscataquis counties. Penquis seeks to build and test the first neighborhood of 3D-printed small homes in the Bangor region, which is a strong indicator of interest in the technology. The development is currently in the planning stages.

The process of securing support from Collins to receive federal funding adheres to firm guidelines. Firstly, applications must be submitted by nonprofit organizations or governing entities such as a town, county or state. The program will refuse for-profit organizations or businesses. Another aspect of the procedure is presenting four letters of recommendation per applicant to illustrate extensive, outside support for the cause. 

State office representatives from offices in Augusta, Portland, Bangor, Lewiston, Caribou and/or Washington D.C. will then review the candidates. Each is assessed based on budget breakdowns and the presentation of how the proposed project serves the community.

“We make sure that we fully understand how the funds are going to be used, what needs will be addressed by the funding, if funding will create jobs and this is important, how the project will become self-sustaining,” said Collins. 

The UMS requested a specific amount and outlined the exact initiatives that the finances will cover. Collins explained that the initial action upon granting approval is to publish details about the CDS on her webpage to lay out how much funding is being advocated for whom and the purpose of doing so. 

“I am a strong believer in transparency and getting those projects out there for my colleagues to see and for the public to see. Then, I will get specific questions from some of my colleagues on why the project is worthy of federal funding,” Collins said.

Collins believes that investing in a new future of construction will positively impact low-income families. The technology is environmentally conscious and has the potential to serve the at-risk population in the U.S.

The use of forest residuals plays a part in the BioHome3D project. Scrap wood and sawdust are put to use, contributing to the Forest Products Industry, an important part of Maine’s economy. The Maine Forest Products Council is another coalition that is interested in working with UMaine to advance the newfound technology. 

“The biomass that is being used is important, it helps our environment. I am also excited that Maine could be a leader in creating an entirely new industry if you think about it,” Collins said. 

Furthermore, federal funding helps support the training of over 200 students at UMaine. They will graduate with general experience in additive manufacturing using 3D printers, a skill in high demand. Collins shared that with paper mills closing in Maine such as in Old Town and Jay, towns lose a sizable employer. 

“If we can figure out an environmentally friendly, sustainable new use for forest products in these printed homes, that’s a good thing for those who previously have worked in our papermill,” said Collins, “and it’s a good thing for those who are loggers and others who are working in the forest product industry because it’s a brand new use and that’s really helpful.”

03/07:

Around 4 a.m., The University of Maine Police Department (UMPD) made an agency assist to the Orono Police Department. An off-campus male student manufactured the bottom of a firearm with a 3D printer, which went off and struck him in the side. The student was transported to the hospital to remove a bullet lodged in his hip. He is fine now. 

At 8 a.m., theft was reported at the Memorial Union bookstore. A female took a child’s hockey jersey, concealed it and left without paying. She was seen on surveillance but her identity remains a mystery. There are no suspects. 

Half passed 9 p.m., there was a property damage crash in the York Hall parking lot. A hit and run left reportable damage to the complainant’s vehicle. There are no suspects. 

At 10 p.m., criminal mischief took place on the fourth floor of Oxford hall. Four exit signs were damaged. 

03/08:

At about 10 a.m., criminal mischief was reported in the Knox Hall laundry room. A washing machine door was broken over the night. The plastic component holding the door broke off and was laid on the floor. It may just be overused. 

At 3 p.m., a property damage crash occurred in the Nutting Hall parking lot. One student backed into another, causing reportable damage to both vehicles. 

At 7:30 p.m., there was a wanted-out request at Gannett Hall. A male student refused to leave the dormitory for spring break. Upon UMPD arrival, he was already gone.

Around 9 p.m., an alcohol offense was reported at Knox Hall. An RA conducted a safety check and found a case of beer in the room of an underage male student. He was not home and notified to contact UMPD. The student later claimed that he finds people over 21 to buy alcohol but refused to name anyone. 

Also at this time, a suspicious complaint came from the Alfond Arena. A black truck with a Canadian license plate was parked in the vicinity. The male driver was seen rummaging through boxes outside of the arena. When a worker asked what he was doing, the man got in his vehicle and left. The burglary on 03/10 is in reference to this report.

03/09:

Around 2 p.m., an information complaint was made at the Memorial Gym. UMPD made contact with the cheerleading coach, who said there were issues between two students on Facebook. One is a member of the team. UMaine Athletics was notified about the athlete and the other student was spoken to.

At 7 p.m., there was an unsubstantiated assault at the Alfond Arena during one of the hockey games. A female claimed that an elderly season ticket holder assaulted her. She was sitting in the man’s seat and he touched her shoulder to say so, leading to an explosive reaction. Witnesses confirm that the man did not cause harm. 

03/10:

At about 8 a.m., the man who rummaged in boxes by the Alfond Arena two days prior illegally entered the building. He stole three hockey sticks and various other items. Upon his arrest, UMPD drafted a search warrant for the vehicle. The case is ongoing and involves pending burglary charges. 

03/12:

Around 2:30 p.m. an information complaint was made from the Mall regarding an unsafe driver. It was reported hours after the incident and UMPD did not locate anyone in the area. 

03/13:

At 10 a.m., there was a property damage crash in the Hitchner Hall parking lot. Two students were involved and damage was reportable for both vehicles

At 11 a.m. a suspicious complaint was made by a Facilities Employee in the Steam Plant parking lot. The abandoned frat house on College Avenue had a board missing from one of the windows. UMPD did not find evidence of a break-in and the board was replaced. 

03/15:

Around 7 p.m., a theft complaint was reported on Munson Road at the College Avenue intersection. An Orono officer alerted UMPD that the corner’s stop sign was missing. Nearby cameras do not reveal whether it was struck by a vehicle or yanked out of the ground. The sign was replaced.

03/16:

At about noon, disorderly conduct occurred at the Alfond Arena during a hockey game. An underage student was drinking and consequently removed from the rink by UMPD. The case was sent to conduct. 

03/17:

Around 2 a.m., a caller on Munson Road issued a suspicious complaint on Munson Road, near Crossland Hall, regarding a pedestrian crossing sign that was flipped upside down. Someone removed the bolt to remove the sign but likely got spooked and ran away. 

03/18:

At 4 p.m., a property damage crash occurred in the parking lot behind the Versant Astronomy Center. A student began backing out of a space and did not see another vehicle coming down the lane. There was damage to both vehicles and no injuries sustained. 

03/19:

Half past noon, UMPD acquired a search warrant for the vehicle belonging to the man arrested for stealing from the Alfond Arena, located at Sullivan’s Towing in Old Town. 

Around 5 p.m., there was a property damage crash in the Dunn Hall parking lot. Hit and run. Nothing picked up by the cameras. Struck vehicle had reportable damage. 

03/21:

At 11 a.m., an information complaint was reported anonymously by Campus Eyes. A male student was seen on the fourth floor of Oxford Hall with an open can of beer. UMPD arrived on the scene but did not locate anyone. 

03/22:

Around 9:30 p.m., an alcohol offense occurred on Rangeley Road by Somerset Hall. UMPD made contact with three females under 21. One carried a bag over her shoulder. When asked what was in the bag, she responded, “alcohol.” The drinks were confiscated and the case went to student conduct. 

At 11:30 p.m., there was an alcohol offense outside of the Phi Kappa Phi fraternity. A male student fell into a snowbank near the house and injured his nose. UVAC did an assessment and confirmed that transport to the hospital was not necessary. 

03/23:

Half past 2 a.m., an information complaint was made regarding members of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity. Six male students ran around campus wearing only underwear and covered in olive oil. They were spoken to by UMPD and referred to conduct. Greek life may open up a hazing case, though the students were not hurt and claimed they simply like to wrestle.

At about 3 a.m., there was an intoxication complaint at the Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity. UMPD entered the basement and located a male student who was vomiting. UVAC transported him to the hospital and a conduct referral was submitted. 

Around 2:30 p.m. a suspicious person complaint was issued from Fogler Library. A male student was approaching tables of female students and asked strange questions. According to UMPD, he allegedly wanted to make friends but had problems with social cues. The student was informed that his behavior was inappropriate. 

03/24:

At 6:30 a.m. there was a property damage crash in the Steam Plant parking lot. Facilities was clearing snow and a student driver did not see the plow coming while backing out. The bumper of the student’s vehicle was damaged extensively as a result. 

03/25:

Around 1:30 p.m., an information complaint was made by a faculty member in North Stevens Hall. An elderly female entered his office to hand over a letter, which stated, “When you see donald trump, give him this letter. I really want to meet him.” The unknown woman may be suffering from mental illness. 

At about 4:30 p.m., there was an information complaint at the UMPD. Mail postmarked from Dallas, Texas with an Anhui, China Logo was delivered to UMPD and contained irrelevant information from 10 years ago.

The University of Maine Student Government met on March 25 to welcome UMaine Police Department (UMPD) Chief Flagg, discuss rising student costs and coordinate a more widespread transparency of administrative actions. 

Club Maintenance:

The Nonpartisan Political Club addressed the Senate seeking preliminary recognition. The group promotes a mixing of political groups and facilitates discussion. A dozen or so members regularly attend weekly meetings in Fogler Library. They will hold events to integrate existing political clubs such as an open forum between Democrats, Republicans and Libertarians. Preliminary recognition was granted. 

Black Bears Who Care (BBWC) is a community service club designated for students to integrate pre-health professions with volunteerism. The organization seeks to improve mental and physical well-being through food/hygiene drives and a potential partnership with World Health. Since forming this semester, BBWC gained 10 members and 16 students on its email list.  

Guest Speaker:

Chief William Flagg spoke of the UMPD’s efforts in being a resource for the student body and emergency preparedness. Flagg took over as Chief a year and a half ago succeeding 35 years of work in law enforcement. 

“There is a difference between being a police officer on campus and being a member of the campus community, and that’s where we want to be. We want to be part of this team,” said Flagg. “I want to assure you that in today’s world and the problems that are occurring all over the country, our mission is very simple, but very powerful at the same time.”

He took an opportunity to share the UMPD pursuit of ensuring safety on campus for every student and staff member. With the 25th anniversary of the Columbine school shooting coming up, Flagg emphasized that officers undergo regular training to improve response capabilities for tragedies such as the Lewiston shooting back in October. He used the analogy of an insurance policy. The training, which may never be put into use, acts as insurance for an unforeseeable event. 

Safety is a top priority for UMPD. Flagg commended the devoted officers, who are there not only to enforce regulations but to support student success. He stressed that students should not be afraid to approach or speak to campus police. UMPD is always open with an officer on-call 24/7, 365 days a year. 

An emergency operation center is run out of the department. The multi-disciplinary team of employees within the UMaine System (UMS) stands ready to respond to and manage any major incident. Furthermore, there is a new initiative to include a mental health counselor when responding to calls. The program is still in progress. 

“I have a personal mission statement: To serve the students and staff of the University of Maine with pride, professionalism, fairness and respect. I have spent 35 years of my career living by that statement and I expect nothing less from my officers,” said Flagg.  

Executive Reports:

Student Body President Michael Delorge announced that he received a total of 36 applications for seven executive positions at UMSG. The interview process began and is expected to end by April 2. 

On March 24, Delorge, Vice President Keegan Tripp and Board of Trustees Representative Olivia Britton attended a monthly meeting with administration and leaders from the Graduate Student Government. The issue of cross-charging around the University was discussed, with the fee for students to rent out the Collins Center increased from $5,500 to $6,800 per night. Increasing fees negatively impact the student experience, specifically in athletics. 

Tripp will send out a UMSG Spring Survey to gauge student opinions and needs. He plans to include questions that are specific to next year. 

Tripp is also working on an initiative to create opportunities for a town hall discussion series between students and Administration next year. Each will be about an hour long and zero in on particular issues. He continues efforts to improve undergraduate relationships with Administration by opening more inclusive conversations. 

Myles Moore, vice president for student entertainment shared that 400 students reserved tickets to attend the Joe Gatto Comedy Show, sponsored by UMSG. Flyers with a QR code to secure a spot at the performance are available in dormitories and other spaces on campus. 

Moore will also hold a table at the Memorial Union on March 28 and April 2 to promote ticket sales. On Maine Day of Service, which is April 24, there will be five food trucks around the mall.  

Advisor Lauri Sidelko mentioned that UMaine Hockey competes against Cornell in Springfield, MA on March 28. Students are invited to attend a watch party in the North Pod of the Memorial Union at 5:30 p.m. Food will be provided. 

Periodic Reports:

Britton attended the Finance, Facilities and Technology Committee meeting last week, where campus and system budgets were proposed. Governor Janet Mills appropriated an additional $10 million to the UMS for Fiscal Year 25. For the first time since 2015, the budgets are balanced without having to use budget stabilization funds. 

Enrollment is decreasing at UMaine Orono. Tuition increases are underway for Business and Engineering to $48 per credit hour and Nursing to $50 per credit hour. The technology fee will be $12 per credit hour for next year and its estimate for two 15 credit hour semesters is $360. Those funds will go toward deferred maintenance next year.

Meredyth Waters, academic affairs special committee chairwoman, attended the Associate Provost meeting on March 20 to bring prevalent student issues to administrative attention. Two of the concerns include Knack Tutoring payment issues and international student transfer credits. Waters also suggested the possibility of changing majors/minors and withdrawing from courses online. Lastly, she advocated against the new online class fee. 

“Part of the budget proposal is that online classes will now have a higher fee associated with them. I brought up the fact that students don’t get to choose if they take classes online or in-person anymore because too many of the required classes for our majors are taught only online”

New Business:

An act to allocate $2,208 toward eSports arena equipment upgrades passed. UMSG fulfills its responsibility to financially support the space by covering fees of $230 for three PS5 controllers, $70 for two PS5 charging stations, $180 for two switch controllers, $28 for the switch controller dock and $1,700 for 16 wire keyboards.

The University of Maine Topics in Professional Writing class is launching an awareness campaign on behalf of Welcome to Housing (WTH), a non-profit organization that functions in the Penobscot County region as a homegoods bank. The founder, Chris Olsen, leads efforts in supporting newly-housed Mainers with the help of several dedicated volunteers. 

A homegoods bank operates similarly to a food bank by accumulating a wide range of household items. Furniture, kitchenware, mattresses/bedding, tools, cleaning supplies, paper products and more are donated to community members in need. They also provide adaptive equipment. Those transitioning from a shelter or recovered from substance abuse are offered essential products without a financial barrier. Other circumstances include people escaping domestic violence, displaced by disasters, re-entering society from corrections and immigrants moving to Maine.

The goods provided by WTH depend on what is available, as the majority of its inventory is received through local donations, which must be usable and of good quality. The organization is willing to seek out specific items that would improve the quality of life for its clients. Underprivileged individuals and families are encouraged to use WTH as a resource.

Those relocating this year or in possession of underutilized items are invited to donate to the cause. Monetary donations are accepted via PayPal. Checks, payable to Welcome to Housing Home Goods Bank Inc., and cash may be mailed to Welcome to Housing Home Goods Bank 499 Broadway, PMB #333, Bangor, M.E. 04401. 

The UMaine/WTH awareness campaign partnership, led by Professor Kathryn Swacha and WTH Founder Chris Olsen, will officially be underway on April 1. Students formed groups to promote the cause on campus and via traditional or social media. The class intends to collect donations and increase the number of volunteers by producing sign-up sheets, posters, flyers and stickers. 

“I would love to see more people understand what we do,” said Olsen. “Also, to really have a better understanding that there is no particular type of person. You know, we’re all people and stuff can happen. It’s like a perfect storm sometimes.”

The predominant message of the campaign is as follows: “Welcome to Housing helps people transition to their own living space by providing furniture and household necessities.” Topics in Professional Writing students promote partnership, advocacy and volunteerism in service with WTH. Students are working in pairs on specific aspects of the awareness campaign:

Jade Hichborn and Stefan McClure are contacting 30 businesses in the area to encourage inventory and financial donations. Their goal is to receive a 20% response rate and bring in new donors and sponsors. 

Mak Hallam and Sarah Spencer are redesigning the WTH webpage to gain more interaction. Post-launch, they anticipate a 10% increase in traffic on the site and a 5% increase in donations within a 60-day window. They hope to include at least five client stories on the new page.

Aimee Ouellette and Nicole LeBlanc plan to enhance the social media presence and update its Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages. They expect a 20% increase in online traffic and 25 new followers across multiple online platforms. Ouellette and LeBlanc are reaching out to Black Bear Mutual Aid to collaborate and potentially create an introduction post geared toward UMaine students. Similarly, Brianna Lemarier drafted a script for WMEB radio station to broadcast on 91.9 FM. 

Alyson Thompson and Eliza Estabrook have reserved a table at the Memorial Union on April 12 and 19 leading up to UMaine Spirit Week. They expect to generate approximately $50 in donated funds and that a total of 10 people or more will sign up to volunteer. Free snacks, stickers and other goods will be provided to those who visit the table. 

Maddie Williams and Maya Farber took on print media efforts by designing stickers and tear-off flyers to spread across UMaine. They hope to recruit student volunteers and increase awareness about WTH as a distinct organization and what it has to offer.

Brady Kaelin and Lindsay Todd established a research team to gauge client and volunteer data through two surveys. Additional forms may be created for specific story interviews and more detailed accounts. Both Kaelin and Todd will volunteer to interact with affiliates of WTH. 

WTH needs involvement from businesses, houses of worship, clubs and civic organizations, media, student groups and individuals to expand its mission of being a reliable resource for the at-risk population of Maine.

The University of Maine town hall meeting on March 21 was the first budget hearing focused fully on fiscal year 2025 (FY25). UMaine President Joan Ferrini-Mundy split the discussion into three components: budget basics, plans for FY25, and the future (FY26 budget). 

The UMaine 2025 Commission was launched during COVID-19, bringing attention to the role of higher education in challenging times. A few of the eight proposed focal areas include sustaining the health of our planet, advancing research and teaching and growing a thriving and inclusive community of learners. 

A three-year budget plan, accepted by the Board of Trustees (BoT), is nearing the end of year one. By 2026, the University is set to complete its efforts to balance the budget and avoid withdrawing from reserves (savings account). 

Ferrini-Mundy went through the basic planning cycle for FY24 to show the processes that each UMaine budget undergoes. Firstly, efforts in enrollment for the class that begins in 2024 were initiated in the spring of 2023. FY23 closed officially in July. Planning and projections went underway within departments, schools, colleges and cabinets in the fall. At the start of 2024, campus-wide budget hearings took place. Many of these involved leaders from colleges and research institutes to hear plans to balance. 

This month, the UMS Preliminary Budget was submitted to the Finance, Facilities and Technology committees of BoT for review. Moving forward, UMS-wide approval is anticipated in May. FY25 begins in July 2024. Ferrini-Mundy emphasized that the budget for FY25 was recently proposed and remains unofficial as it stands.

“There can be challenges and questions and issues and a lot of changes over time. I tell you all this to say that the more we can all appreciate the budget timing process and recognize that planning, which we need to do now for Fiscal 26, can be open only to a point. Then we start to have to narrow down the conversations,” said Ferrini-Mundy.

The Education and General (E&G) expense budget is approximately $273.3 million. The four primary revenue sources include $105.4 million in state appropriations, $124.8 million in tuition and fees (net of financial aid), $22.2 million from indirect cost returns on research grants and sales, and lastly, $16 million in service and auxiliary revenues.

The three primary expenditures are compensation and benefits for $177.1 million, capital maintenance and energy for $28.6 million and other expenses for $67.6 million. While the expenses outpace revenues, UMS is making progress toward balancing the budget. It focuses on decreasing expenses and finding efficiencies.

Chief Financial Officer Kelly Sparks shared the three-year E&G budget targets. They would Increase net revenues by about 6.3% and total expenses by nearly 5%. In 2024, $7.6 million was pulled from reserves. Under the plan, $4.6 million will be used in 2025 and $2.1 million in 2026. UMS anticipates the reserves will be down to $49.2 million. In FY22, they were at $86.5 million.

A third-party consortium recommended that an average of $30 million be spent per year on maintenance as part of the UMS investment in infrastructure renewal. With the $4.8 million in additional state appropriations secured by Janet Mills, the new revenue increase across all categories is $9.5 million. 

Total student credit hours for undergraduate and graduate students will decrease by 2%. The smallest number of students throughout the last decade is entering in fall 2024. However, UMaine is over 35% ahead in total matriculated students. 

The FY25 budget proposed an increase in tuition and fees. A 3% increase in base undergrad tuition would take place system-wide. Differential tuition is also facing restructuring, specifically within the business, engineering and nursing fields. The changes will apply at a semester level and shift to a per-course student differential tuition where the cost of delivery is higher than other programs. 

The technology fee will also be increased for infrastructure support and deferred maintenance. The classroom wing of Bennett Hall will undergo HVAC system replacement. Also, UMS intends to reinstate the online course fee to support the quality of programs and expand offerings. 

Sparks also discussed certain proposed efficiencies to accommodate a smaller population, with the higher-populated Class of 2024 graduating in May. One of these is helping achieve UMaine’s carbon commitment goals. In FY25, UMS is looking to remove 93,000 square feet from the Orono campus in small, scattered increments. Some buildings in York Village, the Francis Allen Black Hall and other infrastructures will be torn down. LED lights will be introduced around campus. As a result of both initiatives, UMS saves 1.6 million in fuel and electricity.

“Those folks that may be impacted or moved, many moves have already started to happen over the last year that is preemptive of this and other groups that may potentially be impacted, we are in the process of discussing relocation and new options for them,” said Sparks. “The good news is, as people move, we are able to update furniture, we are able to update and refresh some of those spaces.”

The President’s Budget Advisory Committee was formed, and its first meeting was held there. The committee seeks to familiarize people with how the budget works and consider “responsibility-centered management.”

More in-depth and specific town hall discussions will be offered on various topics. For example, auxiliary enterprises, including housing, dining, printing, mailing and parking. Other potential categories are space and capital infrastructure, academic program portfolio assessment, costs and benefits as a research university and state appropriation and legislative engagement.