Ruth Griffith of Parkman is the valedictorian while Isabelle Irani of Spring, Texas and Andrii Obertas of Lutsk, Ukraine, are the co-salutatorians
ORONO — Ruth Griffith of Parkman, who is majoring in economics with minors in mathematics and international affairs, is the 2026 University of Maine valedictorian.
Biomedical engineering major Isabelle Irani of Spring, Texa, and physics and mathematics double major Andrii Obertas of Lutsk, Ukraine, are the 2026 co-salutatorians.
The three will graduate on May 9 during the university’s undergraduate commencement ceremonies at Alfond Arena.
“Ruth, Isabelle and Andrii have distinguished themselves through their curiosity, discipline and commitment to others,” said UMaine President Joan Ferrini-Mundy. “Ruth has taken a thoughtful, data-driven approach to understanding economic disparities in Maine. Isabelle has shown remarkable leadership in advancing mental health support for student-athletes while balancing the demands of Division I athletics and biomedical engineering research. Andrii has achieved exceptional success in both physics and mathematics while demonstrating resilience and a deep commitment to learning. Together, they represent the very best of this graduating class.”
Through her honors thesis, Griffith developed a method to analyze sub-county economic trends using regional data, helping illuminate how policies impact local communities across Maine. Drawing on her background in regional economics, she adapted tools used for markets to understand disparities. Beyond academics, she has led service initiatives such as the Maine Day Meal Packout, coordinating efforts that provide tens of thousands of meals statewide.
A full profile of Griffith is online.
Irani is a varsity swimmer whose leadership has transformed mental health support for UMaine student-athletes. She founded the university’s chapter of The Hidden Opponent and successfully advocated for expanded mental health resources, including an in-house therapist for student-athletes. Alongside her advocacy, she has conducted research on sustainable biomaterials and balanced the demands of engineering coursework and Division I athletics.
A full profile of Irani is online.
Obertas came to UMaine from Ukraine and has distinguished himself through academic excellence and perseverance. He has conducted original research in both physics and mathematics, while also engaging in outreach efforts that bring science education to communities across Maine. His experience at UMaine has been shaped by a strong sense of community and opportunity, which he credits with providing hope for his future.
A full profile of Obertas is online.
