I transferred to UMF from the University of Southern Maine and immediately felt a difference—the town, the campus, and the strong sense of community made UMF feel like home. My time there was truly transformational. As a shy and introverted student, I found guidance, mentorship, and a circle of friends who helped me grow, take risks, and
thrive.
At UMF, I found my passion for leadership and community-building through athletics, academics, and mentorship. As a two-sport athlete and work-study student in the athletics department, I gained broad exposure to campus life and learned the value of connecting people and ideas. Supportive mentors and hands-on experiences shaped my path into higher education and athletics administration, leading to leadership roles at institutions including the University of Maine, Upper Iowa University, and MSU Denver. Today, as Executive Director of Alumni Engagement at MSU Denver, I lead global alumni engagement efforts, build inclusive programs, strengthen volunteer networks, and teach Sport Event Management—continuing the community-focused work I began at UMF.
My advice to current students: get involved, meet people, seek mentorship, and soak up every opportunity. Everything you do at UMF can shape not only your career but also who you become.
