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University of Maine President Robert Kennedy addressed the faculty Wednesday, Sept. 16, during the annual President’s Breakfast, where he talked about his hopes for the future.
Kennedy announced the recent creation of a university-wide workgroup to look at ways to improve the university and streamline its programs. The workgroup is made up of Kennedy, Provost Susan Hunter and the leadership of the Faculty Senate.
“This is one of the most important jobs we’ve undertaken,” Kennedy said. “This institution is the future of the state.”
Kennedy also announced an increase in private gifts to the university compared to last year from $91.5 million to $106 million, and said the extra money will help fund two professorships and one faculty chairperson.
Kennedy praised the work of Habib Dagher, professor of civil and structural engineering and director of the Advanced Engineered Wood Composites center, saying Dagher was “UMaine’s own stimulus package.”
Kennedy said the university’s graduate student population increased this year, which has helped to offset the impact of decreased first-year student enrollment. He said UMaine’s graduate population increased by about 200 students this year as compared to last year.
“I think it says a lot about our research program,” Kennedy said.
Kennedy said there is a “vital need to focus on our students and their needs” this year.
“Financial aid issues related to our economy are making it difficult for students,” Kennedy said.
Kennedy praised the work of faculty in today’s tough economic times and said he was “struck by how the campus has changed for the better over the past two years.”
Bangor Daily News