Brea Mathieu, Lewiston ‘22, is a third-year at Franklin Pierce University and Captain of the Dance Team. She is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Biology with Math and Chemistry minors
“I wanted to join the Alum Council because I want to be involved in the institution that helped me gain my voice and confidence. I want to help plan events to help alums and current OLs connect with the Institute and its networks.”
Brea Mathieu
Leo Goddard, Leavitt ‘20, graduated from University of MaineFarmington in 2024. He is remaining in Farmington and serving as Reporter and Staff Writer for the Franklin Journal and Sun Journal.
“I feel like I owe the Institute for so many of my successes–my #Beyoutiful Project, networking skills, confidence, and current job. I wanted to give back for everything that I have gained with this program.”
Tara O’Donovan
Leo Goddard
Tara O’Donovan, Belfast ‘19 and University of Vermont ’23, currently works at a non-profit gallery in Burlington, Vermont as a Gallery Educator, Art Installation Assistant, and Gallery Attendant. Additionally, she is a studio assistant for a local artist and has a part-time job at a consignment store.
“I joined the Alum Council because the Institute was one of the first communities that helped me find my confidence and supported my self exploration. I think the institute's mission is so important to people just learning about who they are, and I am honored to be part of that work now.”
Mercedes Owen, Calais ‘23, is in the Pre-Dental track of Medical Biology at the University of New England. She serves as an Orientation Leader and participates in various clubs. Over the summer, she maintains athletic complexes at a recreation center.
“The Institute played a crucial role in building my confidence and providing opportunities that would have otherwise been out of reach for a student from a rural area. I’m thankful to have been able to strengthen my professional skills through the Institute’s workshops. The support, inspiration, and empowerment I received from everyone left a lasting impact on me. Joining the Alum Council seemed like the perfect way to contribute, ensure the Institute continues to thrive for future generations, and keep everyone—both alums and new OLs—connected.”
Anna Kingsbury, Oceanside ‘22, is a third-year in the Pre-Dental track of Medical Biology at the University of New England. She works as a Building Manager and Peer Tutor while participating in various clubs. Over the summer, she works as an Office Assistant and at an ice cream shop
“I joined the Alum Council because I was intrigued by what I read in the newsletters and interested in helping start Alum Chapters at colleges, which is one of the reasons I joined the Operations Committee. It’s important to foster leadership in young women, especially those like myself who want to go into male-dominated fields. I am happy that I’ll be able to help make a difference.”
Lillian Ranco, Westbrook ‘22, is studying Government and American Studies at Colby College. She founded and presides over the Club Field Hockey Team and is active in Colby Democrats. While at home in Westbrook, she works as a Waitress at Brickyard Hollow and volunteers for the Angus King Senate Campaign.
“The Olympia Snowe Women's Leadership Institute has had a profound impact on my educational career, setting me up with numerous scholarships and building my network. Though I had completed the program, I knew my time with the Institute was far from over. Last year, while looking for opportunities to reconnect with the institute, I learned about the Alum Council, and the rest is history.”
Nadya Buffum, Biddeford ‘20, is now employed full-time as a Behavioral Health Support worker at Shalom House Inc. in Portland, while also pursuing her studies in Social Work at Southern Maine Community College.
“I joined the Alum Council because I ran into Kristin Ryan, and she encouraged me to join and share my thoughts; I am glad I did so. I have become integrated in a supportive group that continues to keep me engaged with the program post graduation.”
Vesper-Arlo Desjardins, Bangor ‘21, is currently working as a Caseworker at Preble Street’s Florence House Women’s Shelter helping house women facing unhoused living situations, fleeing domestic violence, recovering from substance use or other disorders. They also cover other Preble Street programs and, serve on the Racial Equity Committee, and train staff in Anti-Racism.
“The Institute gave me the confidence to believe in myself and my abilities.”
