FARMINGTON — The University of Maine at Farmington recently hosted its third annual Veterans Day lunch to honor veterans in the UMF and local community for their service. The event reaches out to UMF students who are veterans or the dependents of veterans, and UMF staff, faculty and community members who have served.
The University is committed to understanding the unique needs of veterans and their dependents, the value of their service, helping them feel connected to the campus and providing the support they need to be successful with their academic goals. Currently 39 veterans and 67 dependents of veterans attend UMF.
Event speakers included UMF President Joseph McDonnell, Maine Rep. Stephan Bunker and former University of Maine System Board of Trustee member Owen McCarthy. The event was emceed by Brian Ellis, 20-year veteran and administrative assistant to the president. UMF Lunch featured several varieties of pasta, salad and desert and was provided by Sodexo.
“This event is an important opportunity to recognize veterans as a valued part of our community and to thank them for their service,” said McDonnell. “Student and staff veterans are a great asset to our campus community and add a level of maturity and leadership that broadens and enriches the college experience for everyone.”
At this year’s event, it was announced that UMF has started a Vietnam Veteran’s Scholarship and Support Fund to be used for scholarships for undergraduate and graduate student veterans and students who are dependents of veterans. The fund will help provide financial support for student veterans to engage in veteran-related programs and community service.
Maine Rep. Bunker and former Vice Chairman of Roderick-Crosby American Legion Post #28 spoke highly of UMF and its ongoing efforts to welcome veterans. He recalled returning to Maine after his military service and how the opportunity of higher education helped him chart a path for his future. He added that, “one of our best choices is the freedom of education,” and that he is so pleased to have his local campus be so welcoming.
McCarthy thanked President McDonnell for his leadership and said, “I am deeply proud of what UMF has done to become more veteran-friendly, and the leadership that people like Brian Ellis have shown in building programs that support our service members and their families. That matters. It strengthens this campus, this town and this state.”
