More than 200 graduates from undergraduate and graduate programs were celebrated at Thomas College’s 130th Commencement in May. Hundreds of families and friends gathered to celebrate this huge life milestone.
20
Investing in Mental Health
Since the pandemic, mental health on college campuses has become an essential area on campus. Student leaders and staff have worked together to bring grants and programs to the College to support students in the best way.
22 Long Partnership of Growth with Sheridan Construction
For more than five decades, Sheridan Construction has been involved in the construction and planning of almost every building on campus, with their most recent project being the Sukeforth Family Sports Center. A partnership made even more special by several alumni who have joined the company over the years.
5 Letter from the President
Thomas Athletics
Class Notes
In Memoriam
ON THE COVER
This year’s team at the Society for Advancement of Management (SAM) international competition celebrate their big wins!
Read more about the winning students on page 18.
Join the Frank Bartlett Society
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Annual Stewardship Event
Board members, friends and alumni of Thomas College gathered in May to celebrate the year’s accomplishments and hear from graduates about their time at Thomas. Board Chair Conrad Ayotte provided updates on the presidential search and President Laurie Lachance highlighted new, cutting-edge additions to the campus including a media lab, biology and chemistry labs and the expansion of our esports program.
The Thomas Magazine is published two times per year by Thomas College. Signed letters may be sent to the Editor at Thomas College, 180 West River Road, Waterville, ME 04901 or emailed to pr@thomas.edu. Letters and news items may be edited for length and style.
MISSION
Thomas College prepares students for success in their personal and professional lives, and for leadership and service in their communities.
THOMAS.EDU
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Conrad L. Ayotte ’77, H’98 Chair
Kelley B. Shimansky ’89
First Vice-Chair
Robin G. Goodwin M.B.A. ’90
Second Vice-Chair
David C. Pease
Secretary & Clerk of the Corporation
Cary Olson Cartwright
Douglas L. Cutchin H’09
James A. Doyle
William M. Dubay ’72
Holly D. Ferguson ’95, M.B.A. ’96
Michelle T. Hayes ’81, ’83
Charles “Wick” Johnson, III
Meredith H. Jones
Brian J. King ’93
Laurie G. Lachance M.B.A. ’92
Danielle K. Marquis ’99
Dorcas B. Riley
Richard F. Spellman, M.S. ’80
Kenneth P. Viens H’17
TRUSTEE EMERITI
Dr. James W. Hennigar H’03
Susan B. Lavenson H’94
Susan S. Roche
EDITOR
MacKenzie Riley Young
COPY EDITOR
Erin Merrill
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Erin Merrill
MacKenzie Oberholzer ’21
Seth Reed
MacKenzie Riley Young
Mack Sampson ’23, M.B.A. ’24
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Mariena Bragg ’19
Haley CampbellM.B.A. ’24
Caleb Daigneault ’24
Parker Demelia ’25
MacKenzie Oberholzer ’21
Shawn Von Oesen ’24
Mack Sampson ’23, M.B.A. ’24
Beyden Stratton ’25
DESIGN
PELLE Graphic Design
Haley Campbell
Letter from the President
EVERY JANUARY I TAKE A
MOMENT to reflect on what I accomplished in the prior year and map out what I’d like to achieve in the new year. On paper at least, the endless days and weeks I will have accomplish And yet, we’ve already our last morning. buds appear is suddenly Soon after I realize our new a campus--already an approaching Given life, it is details and between many of President 2025 and experiencing day-to-day sense of For most looked information and safely positive comes moment for the unwavering forecast
accurate: the future of Thomas College is bright. We see it in the expansion of our academic programs, the construction of new media, chemistry, and biology labs, and in the growth of our extra-curricular offerings. Today we are mindfully laying
Laurie G. Lachance M.B.A. ’92 President
2024 Commencement
Thomas College hosted its 130th Commencement on Saturday, May 11, 2024 with more than two hundred graduates including those from undergraduate and graduate programs.
The Commencement Address was delivered by Governor Janet Mills The undergraduate student speaker was Molly Sottak, a degree in Secondary Education-English Language Arts Major, from Belmont, New Hampshire. The graduate student speaker was Nathaniel White, a Master of Science in Educational Leadership graduate from Waterville, Maine. Honorary degree recipients included Governor Mills, Gena Canning , and Bev and David Worthington The Honors Convocation speaker was Thomas College trustee Michelle Hayes ’83
Assisting the graduating class this year as marshals were Brooke Phillips, a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, from Gorham, Maine, and Julia Reny , Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, from Gardiner, Maine.
The three Thomas Scholars, in recognition of outstanding academic achievement at the baccalaureate level, included: Madyson Redding, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology – Forensic concentration and Criminal Justice, from Milford, Maine, Julia Reny, Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, from Gardiner, Maine, and Olivia Rowe, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology – mental health concentration, from Waterford, Maine.
Congratulations to the Class of 2024!
70%+ 47% 16 COUNTIES
The Class of 2024 represented all counties in Maine, 15 different states, and four different countries.
More than 70 percent of undergraduate students graduated with honors (a GPA of 3.2 or higher).
Forty-seven percent of the graduating class identify as first-generation college students and forty-two percent were Pell Grant students.
GRADUATING STUDENT Stories
Addison Landon
HOMETOWN: Bangor, Maine
MAJOR: Business Administration + Digital Marketing Management
ACTIVITIES: Campus Activities Board, Community Assistant / Lead Community Assistant, TRIO, Alpha Chi, Society for the Advancement of Management Competition Team
WHAT IT IS LIKE BEING A FIRST-GENERATION COLLEGE
STUDENT: “Being a first-generation college student is exciting! By pursuing a college education, I am paving my own path to success. As a first-generation college student, I get to better myself while making my family proud.”
SOMETHING SHE’S PROUD OF: “I’m proud of how far I’ve come during my time at Thomas. On top of everything I’ve learned academically, I’ve seen a lot of personal development. I’ve discovered how to be a strong leader, built up my confidence, established lifelong friends, and learned more about myself than I ever have before.”
Caleb Daigneault
HOMETOWN: Cornville, ME
MAJOR: Marketing Management
ACTIVITIES: Men’s Tennis, SAAC, Career Navigator, Early Start Tutor, Athletic Event Staff, President’s Innovation Challenge
SOMETHING HE’S PROUD OF: “I’m proud of myself for getting out of my comfort zone and creating connections with both students and faculty which has opened opportunities left and right.”
FAVORITE MEMORY AT THOMAS: “My favorite memory at Thomas has been winning the NAC championship twice. My time with the tennis team has kept me active and continued to help me build new and stronger relationships with coaches and players on my team and opposing teams.”
NEXT UP AFTER GRADUATION: MBA on-campus program at Thomas College
Fernanda Rocha Martinez
PROGRAM: On-campus MBA
SOMETHING SHE’S PROUD OF: “I am very proud to have made the decision to take this program, the people I have met are wonderful and have broadened my outlook on life in general and business a great deal. I am also proud to be part of the DEI committee through the internship. And finally, I am very proud to understand subjects that I previously considered very complex and in my second language, this thanks also to the great teachers that I have.”
HOW SHE FEELS ABOUT LEAVING: “It’s great for my professional career to complete an MBA in 10 months but personally I don’t want to leave. I will miss Thomas College very much!”
“I am very proud to have made the decision to take this program, the people I have met are wonderful and have broadened my outlook on life in general and business a great deal.” FERNANDA ROCHA MARTINEZ
Moise Mayend
PROGRAM: Master’s in Cybersecurity
CURRENT JOB/CAREER: Environmental Health and Safety Coordinator, Hunter College, New York City
HOW THIS DEGREE WITH ENRICH/GROW HIS CAREER: “With greater opportunities to work in a country or geographical region of my choice and the development of the skills needed to set up my own company, I will increase recognition based on the reputation of Thomas College. Students with an MS in Cybersecurity from Thomas College have a great academic reputation nationwide
SOMETHING HE’S PROUD OF: “Doing this online program was the most challenging thing I have ever done. I walked away with confidence that I don’t think I could have gotten from my self-instruction. I feel blessed to have great professors and staff members, they are all always ready to help. Thank you, Thomas College, for being a part of my success.”
WINTER SPORTS Wrap-up
Men’s Basketball
Men’s Basketball improved from last season, finishing with a 9-16 overall record and a 6-8 conference record. The team battled through some adversity to finish close to .500 in conference play. The team had a handful of outstanding moments this past season, but arguably the highlight of the season came early on, when Cooper Wirkala hit a buzzer-beating shot in a 92-91 win against the University of Maine Augusta. In postseason awards, Faron Cureton was named to the NAC All-Conference Sportsmanship Team. The team also celebrated two graduates this season – Cooper Wirkala and Kory Winch. Men’s Basketball will look to continue improving next season.
Women’s Basketball
Women’s Basketball once again improved upon the previous season’s accomplishments. They finished with an overall record of 9-16 and a conference record of 6-8. Despite some difficult conference matchups, Women’s Basketball managed to qualify for the postseason. The highlight of the season came in an important conference win again the University of Maine Farmington, 57-45. This matchup secured playoff basketball for the Terriers. For postseason awards, Elena Alderman was named to the NAC All-Conference Sportsmanship Team. The team celebrated four graduates this season: Charlene Butera, Samantha Fortin, Bri Benecke, and Emily Parent Women’s Basketball will keep the majority of their young core next season and will look to build upon this season’s playoff team.
Men’s Ice Hockey
Men’s Ice Hockey had a difficult season, persevering through a handful of tough moments and injuries to go 3-11-1 on the season. The highlight of the season was a huge 9-2 victory over the University of New England in front of a packed home crowd. Also on the same night, the team celebrated four graduates: Kegan Rodrigue, Nathan Carter, Daniel Guarino and Cameron Tower Men’s Ice Hockey will look to bounce back next year with an emphasis on their young core.
SPRING SPORTS
Men’s Tennis
Men’s Tennis had another incredible season, finishing with a 12-2 record and a 5-0 conference record. The team didn’t drop a single match in any of their conference games and capped it off by defeating SUNY Delhi 5-0 and repeating as North Atlantic Conference Men’s Tennis Champions. In postseason awards, Gabe McPhail was named NAC Player of the year, as well as All-Conference Singles and All-Conference Doubles. Calvin Cutler was named NAC Rookie of the year, along with All-Conference Singles, and All-Conference Doubles. Liam Gould was named the NAC Tournament Most Valuable Player, to All-Conference Doubles, and the NAC Sportsmanship team. Sebastian Soto was named to the NAC All-Conference Doubles team. Finally, Rob Disch was named NAC Coach of the Year. The team celebrated four graduates this year: Caleb Daignault, Nick Magiera, Kegan Rodrigue, and Liam Gould – all of which were important contributors as the team will look to make it three conference championships in a row next season.
Women’s Lacrosse
The Women’s Lacrosse team closed out the season with a 2-12 overall record, and a 1-6 conference record. Despite some shortcomings, the team persevered through injuries to finish out the season with a competitive game against University of Maine Farmington. The highlight of the season was a home 15-2 win against Vermont State University Lyndon, where four Terriers scored at least twice. Alia Chasse also reached a huge milestone, scoring her 100th collegiate goal against New England College. For postseason awards, Alia Chasse and Jorgie Clarke were both named to the NAC All-Conference Second Team, and Emily Gower was named to the NAC All-Conference Sportsmanship Team. The team celebrated four graduating players this year: Kaitlyn Paul, Scarlett Raymond-Ayer, Samantha Snow, and Bronwyn Balboni Women’s Lacrosse will look to build upon on their experiences this spring and start strong next season.
Men’s Lacrosse
Men’s Lacrosse finished their season with a 2-9 record, and a 2-6 conference record. They ended their season on a positive note with an 18-10 win against SUNY Cobleskill, as five different Terriers scored at least two goals. The highlight of the season was that final game against SUNY Cobleskill, where they honored five graduates: Noah Parenteau, Taylor Wesbrock, Caden Crosby, Daniel Guarino, and Hunter Crocker For postseason awards, Taylor Wesbrock was named to the NAC AllConference Sportsmanship Team. Men’s Lacrosse will look to build upon their season next spring.
SPRING SPORTS Wrap-up
Women’s Indoor/Outdoor Track & Field
Starting with Women’s Indoor Track and Field, an incredible 24 new school records were broken during the winter season. Emma Burr was able to qualify for the New England Division III New England Championships where she helped the team finish in 19th out of 26 schools. In the spring, Women’s Outdoor Track and Field closed out another successful season with their first ever North Atlantic Conference Championship. Led once again by Emma Burr and Mary DiSanto, the Terriers placed first out of nine other NAC schools to take home the championship. As a team, Women’s Outdoor Track and Field broke 28 records in the spring season, as well as six conference records. For post season awards, Emma Burr was named the North Atlantic Conference Track Athlete of the Year, Mary DiSanto was named the North Atlantic Conference Field Athlete of the Year, and Ian Wilson was named the Women’s Outdoor Track and Field Coach of the Year. In the Division III New England Championships, the team finished in 22nd place out of 36 schools. Emma Burr finished out the season competing at the Division III Outdoor Track and Field National Championships and placed 18th in the nation out of Division III athletes in the Women’s Heptathlon. The team will look to defend their title next season as they look to repeat as NAC champions.
Men’s Indoor/Outdoor Track & Field
Men’s Indoor Track and Field saw seven new school records shattered, as James Cote made it to the Division III New England Indoor Track and Field Championships. The team as a whole placed 27th as James Cote placed seventh in the Men’s Heptathlon. Men’s Outdoor Track and Field had yet another strong season this year, led by Lionel Raye Jr. The team had a strong showing in the North Atlantic Conference Outdoor Track and Field Championships, placing third in the conference with 166.5 total points. In that same meet, Lionel Raye Jr. and Josiah Hays both broke school and conference records in their respective events. A handful of student-athletes were able to qualify for the NCAA Division III New England Championships, where the team placed 26th out of 33 schools. Lionel Raye Jr. won the Men’s 100 Meter event at the meet and became a New England Division III champion. He was ranked 26th in the nation out of Division III Athletes and made a late season push to qualify for the Division III Outdoor Track and Field National Championships. The team will look to build upon this season’s successes next year.
Baseball
Baseball concluded another strong season with a 16-17 overall record and a 12-8 conference record. Despite a strong regular season and a third-place finish in the NAC Eastern Conference, Baseball was unable to qualify for the NAC Championship Tournament. The highlight of the season was a 5-3 win against eventual NAC Champions Husson University. As for postseason awards, four Terriers were named to NAC All-Conference teams. DJ Cagnina, Jason Bartlett, and Tony Meza were all named to the NAC All-Conference First Team. Patrick Temby was named to the NAC All-Conference Sportsmanship Team. Baseball celebrated three graduates this season: Aaron Young, Lucas Harmon, and Daniel May. The team will keep their core starters together next year and will look to build upon this season’s successes.
SPRING SPORTS Wrap-up
Softball
Softball finished out their season with a strong showing in the North Atlantic Conference Tournament, getting one win away from the championship game. The team finished with a 10-23 record, and a 5-7 conference record. Softball was able to persevere through some challenging conference matches and qualify for the NAC Championship Tournament. The team played their best games at the end of the season, and the highlight of the season was a walk-off win against the University of Maine Farmington 6-5 to advance to the semi-final match. Four different Terriers earned postseason awards. Kayla Duhaime was named to the NAC All-Conference First Team, Maddie Rock and Megan Oberholzer were both named to the NAC All-Conference Second Team, and Teresa McLinden was named to the NAC All-Conference Sportsmanship Team. Softball celebrated one graduate this year, Maddie Rock, and will look to keep their core group together headed into next season.
More than 600 people from the community joined us on campus for the Thomas College Dirty Dog Mud Run, a 5K, 15-obstacle race held in April.
This race is fun for the whole family, with a kids’ race, food trucks, beer tent and post-race beverages sponsored by Valley Beverage, and a DJ. Racers were in and out of mud, to crawl over and under obstacles including monkey bars, haybales, and tire flips.
The Mud Run is proudly sponsored by Central Maine Motors and the Mud Pup Run is sponsored by Lakeside Landscape.
Building Connections to Success
PROFESSIONAL & CAREER DEVELOPMENT AT THOMAS COLLEGE
BROOKE PHILLIPS ’24, a firstgeneration college student from Windham, ME, never imagined she’d land a spot in such a prestigious program but the support and experiences she received from Thomas College made a difference in her journey.
Brooke successfully landed a spot in the highly selective Bangor Savings Bank management trainee program. There were over 100 candidates, 65 interviews (including 12 internal candidates), 13 final interviews and Brooke was one of the four selected. At Thomas, Brooke was Student Senate President, part of the President’s Innovation Challenge, and a Thomas Scholar (a top academic graduate).
Brooke says her experiences at Thomas paired with the counseling from Professional and Career Development (PCD) helped her to land this amazing opportunity.
“I would not have had the success I did If I was not supported by the PCD office,” said Brooke. “PCD offered resume help, interview coaching and other workshops through career readiness week that
all helped in my overall preparedness prior to taking on this position. PCD was actively looking for positions that aligned with what I wanted to pursue post-graduation, they recommended the job, fixed me resume, and help me prepare for a successful interview.”
She was also able to connect with SVP and Director of Talent, Diversity & Inclusion for Bangor Savings Bank David Pease who she met through the interview process which begins on Thomas College’s campus.
“We are thrilled to have hired Brooke for the 2024 Management Trainee program. She has been an outstanding college leader. She is a great communicator, critical thinker, collaborative and caring human,” said David. “I’m excited for Brooke – I know she is going to have an excellent career and the management trainee program at BSB will provide her the experience, opportunities and visibility to do it in an accelerated way. I am also excited that she will continue her graduate studies at Thomas College, and the Bank is going to help pay for it. Brooke is building both
her work and education credentials at the same time, which will make her exceptionally marketable. So excited to work with Brooke and watch her grow and shine her brilliance!”
Brooke says she was motivated to pursue the management trainee position because of the opportunity for growth professionally and personally through direct mentorship at the bank.
“The advice that I would give to other students that are aspiring to land a management trainee role would be to take advantage of leadership/ involvement opportunities as well as professional development opportunities, because that is what you will be, a professional leader who gets involved,” she said. “I am passionate about creating and implementing positive policies, projects, products, and events. I love talking to people and networking with others, this position aligns with everything that I could possibly want in a job, and if this speaks to your authentic self than continue shining and you can get here too.”
Congratulations, Brooke!
Thomas College Students Win Top Awards
AT INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS COMPETITION SEVENTH YEAR IN A ROW
THOMAS COLLEGE STUDENTS won top awards once again in this year’s Society for the Advancement of Management (SAM) International Business Conference, which took place in March in Orlando, Florida.
The Thomas College team placed second as a team, third place for case study presentation, and Preston Moody, Jade Crowell, and Addison Landon made the Knowledge Bowl finals with Addison finishing in second place. Addison was also recognized as the top individual student performer in the competitions. They were coached by Thomas College professors Dr. Rick Saucier and Dr. Jono Anzalone.
Spanning more than 40 years, this annual series of competitions is organized by the Society for Advancement of Management, and provides an opportunity for students to showcase existing skills and further develop fundamental skills for business success.
The full Thomas College team including Daniel Brewer, of Casco, ME; Tanner Herrick, of Norway, ME; Jade Crowell, of Greene, ME; Preston Moody, of Winslow, ME; and Addison Landon, of Bangor, ME, competed in categories consisting of a written case study, a case study presentation, a knowledge bowl, an extemporaneous speech, and a business pitch.
“The competitions were especially challenging this year as the number of colleges submitting student teams were at an all-time high for the conference,” said Thomas College professor and competition advisor Dr. Rick Saucier. “Many SAM representatives commented to me how exceptional they considered our students. Thomas College is being considered as highly regarded in the business management academic circles.”
“Congratulations to our students for their remarkable achievements at the SAM conference. Their ability to excel in such a competitive environment speaks volumes about their
skills and determination,” said Thomas College professor and competition advisor Dr. Jono Anzalone. “At Thomas College, our approach to business education goes beyond traditional classroom teaching. We focus on experiential learning, case studies, and real-world projects, ensuring that our students are well-prepared to tackle the challenges of the modern business world. Daniel, Addison, Tanner, Jade, and Preston set a shining example for the entire Thomas College community!”
This is the seventh year in a row that Thomas College students have placed in the SAM competition.
“I’m excited about this win because this is the best I’ve done in the SAM competition. After three years, I’ve finally won first place overall in the undergraduate division,” said Addison.
“My favorite part of the competition was watching our team grow and succeed as we moved through the competitions over the weekend showing that Thomas College students can compete internationally,” said Daniel. “It feels good to be winners. Thomas consistently succeeds at the SAM conference, and it is nice to keep that tradition going.”
“Placing well in this fairly large competition has been an incredible experience that has boosted my confidence in my skills,” said Jade. “The Thomas College SAM team worked extremely hard going up to the competition, putting in long hours to better our performance, and being able to see that translate into success was so fulfilling.”
“The competition allows for me to sharpen my business skills, whether that be networking, organizational analysis, presentation giving, and more. These skills that I have developed at the conference will propel me into the workforce,” said Tanner.
“The part I enjoyed most was the competitive spirit of all the schools and the eagerness to succeed,” said Preston.
Thomas College’s H. Allen Ryan School of Business is awardwinning and has undergraduate and graduate programs in accounting, business administration, entrepreneurship, management and more.
TANNER HERRICK
PRESTON MOODY
JADE CROWELL
DANIEL BREWER
ADDISON LANDON
A Commitment to the Emotional Well-Being
of Our Students
IN AUGUST 2023, Thomas College became the first JED campus in the state of Maine and is just finishing up year one of a four-year process to help support the emotional well-being of its students. Year one consists of a thorough assessment of how well the Thomas community supports student mental health campus wide. A strategic plan will be formulated to implement changes to provide even better supports for students across campus.
In years two and three, Thomas College will implement the suggested changes and in year four, the team will repeat the assessment phase to measure the impact of implemented those changes.
“This initiative began with students in 2021 identifying some areas where our Thomas community could improve its support of students’ well-being,” said Thomas College counselor and mental health team member Carol Jollotta. “I am proud to be part of an institution who heard this feedback from students and has made a 4-year initial commitment with the JED Foundation to methodically identify and address areas where we can be better for our students.”
Thomas College Mental Health Team
As part of this work with JED, Thomas College formed a team to lead a multi-year strategic collaboration that not only assesses and enhances the work that is already being done but also helps create positive, lasting, systemic change in the campus community.
WHAT IS THE JED FOUNDATION?
The Jed Foundation (JED) is designed to help schools evaluate and strengthen their mental health, substance misuse, and suicide prevention programs and systems to ensure that schools have the strongest possible mental health safety nets. There are currently over 450 campuses engaged in the JED Campus program. Thomas College is recognized as the first JED Campus in Maine. By joining JED Campus, Thomas College demonstrates a commitment to the emotional well-being of its students. JED Campuses embark on a multi-year strategic collaboration that not only assesses and enhances the work that is already being done but also helps create positive, lasting, systemic change in the campus community. The program provides schools with a framework for supporting student mental health, as well as assessment tools, feedback reports, a strategic plan, and ongoing support from the JED Higher Education team.
Students on the Mental Health Team include Liv Rowe ’24 (a JED campus co-lead), Katy McIntyre ’26, Emma Boucher ’24, and Andy Cowles ’25.
Staff and faculty on the team include Lisa DesautelsPoliquin (a JED campus co-lead), Greg King (a JED campus co-lead), Carol Jollotta, Nicole Lazure, Reggie Davis, Derek Dalrymple, Jeannine Ross, Jamie Campbell, Andrea Thebarge, and Allison Moloney.
The Thomas College mental health team’s mission/vision: Thomas College has created a well-rounded task force of students, faculty, and staff to partner with the JED foundation to assess mental health needs at the school. We have been working to create a strategic plan using an assessment and school-wide survey to assess what students need and will use the next few years to implement solutions and further help students who struggle with Mental Health.
This interdisciplinary team including faculty, staff, and students from around the campus met regularly during the academic year an average of twice per month; held events and focus groups; and hosted our JED Campus Advisor on campus in March.
Some of their accomplishments for the academic year included completing the JED Baseline Assessment in review of eight strategic domain areas:
1. Strategic Planning and equitable implementation
2. Developing and supporting Life Skills
3. Social Connectedness
4. Identifying Students at Risk
5. Increasing Self-Help Behavior
6. Providing Mental Health Services
7. Substance Misuse and Crisis Management
8. Means Reduction and Environmental Safety
Thomas College had a student response rate of 35% participation of the Healthy Minds Survey (national average is 17%) 35%
The team also promoted and implemented the Healthy Minds Survey to students, which is a national survey conducted by the University of Michigan. Thomas College had a student response rate of 35% participation (national average is 17%).
Liv Rowe, a JED campus co-lead and student, facilitated five focus groups for specific student groups: first year, second and third year, fourth year and graduate, international, and commuter.
The team also created an advisory board and met once per semester with this group to share information and gather their feedback and insights. The advisory board includes faculty, staff, students, alumni, and a community partner.
The team developed a list of local and national resources and hotlines that will be made available and are currently piloting two different mental health apps.
This summer, the team will finalize their strategic plan to help guide their work for the next three years.
“I feel privileged and hopeful to work with such a dedicated campus team who are so passionate, committed, and willing to help advance mental health initiatives in support of our students and the Thomas community,” said JED campus co-lead Lisa Desautels-Poliquin. “Each person has a full-time job or coursework in addition to many other responsibilities but has made the time to help prioritize this important work.”
FIVE DECADES OF Growth Together Sheridan Construction & Thomas College
THOMAS COLLEGE first began working with Sheridan Construction in the 1970s when the school moved its location to West River Road. Since then, Sheridan Construction has been involved in the construction and planning of almost every building on campus, with their most recent project being the Sukeforth Family Sports Center.
“Sheridan has been an incredible
partner as we’ve expanded and improved our campus over the years,” said Assistant Vice President for Auxiliary Services Monica Woodside. “Thomas College is proud to work with Sheridan Construction and we feel fortunate that many Thomas College graduates have gone onto work at Sheridan in various capacities.”
In fact, about 20 percent of Sheridan’s office staff are currently Thomas College graduates. Scott Nielson ’83, has
been with Sheridan Construction since he graduated.
“It has been great to work with other Thomas College alumni who work at Sheridan Construction and in the local community. The Thomas College alumni are strong leaders and have a willingness to help in the community,” said Scott.
Scott chose to work with Sheridan Construction after graduation because it was “… a small, growing construction
“
“Sheridan Construction is such a breath of fresh air. They work hard to make their employees feel valued and appreciated. They are an industry leader with many employees who have 30+year long careers with the company. That speaks very highly to the culture at Sheridan.”
company that could challenge me, provide solid growth opportunities, and fully utilize my accounting education from Thomas College,” he said.
Now, Sheridan is a respected industry leader and ranked a Best Place to Work in Maine.
Scott is currently the VP of Finance and Administration and is set to fully retire next year. He’ll be giving over his helm to another Thomas College alum, Lynn Morkeski ’13, M.B.A. ’13.
Lynn was hired as a Senior Accountant almost four years ago and has been learning under Scott with the plan for her to become the next Controller when he retires. She officially became the Controller in January 2024, and when Scott semi-retired.
“Sheridan Construction is such a breath of fresh air. They work hard to make their employees feel valued and appreciated. They are an industry leader with many employees who have 30+year long careers with the company. That speaks very highly to the culture at Sheridan,” she said.
Lynn continues, “I think the focus that Thomas puts on gaining experience while still in college is so great for young professionals. Internships, career fairs
and job shadowing are all such great tools to learn more about what people do for a living in the real world. It really helps you learn the kinds of things you might enjoy doing with your career and even some you would probably hate which is equally important.”
“Thomas Alumni create such a great community. It’s nice to have that connection to other co-workers even if you weren’t at Thomas at the same time. They are kind, welcoming and hardworking. I think that speaks highly to the culture at Thomas, too. Working with Thomas alumni feels a little like being back on campus,” said Lynn.
Joel Nelson ’11 has worked for Sheridan for 12 years. He started on a construction job site as a Field Clerk, then moved into the Assistant Safety Director position, became the Safety Director, then moved into Project Management where he currently works now.
“Thomas College is known for having a reputation of providing well rounded skills and knowledge that local businesses are looking for in candidates,” said Joel.
Joel said he’s proud to have the opportunity to advance his position at Sheridan and grow his skills and knowledge,
which started at Thomas College with his Business Management degree.
One of the newest Thomas grads to join Sheridan Construction is Nicholas Bolliger ’21 who is a sales assistant. He handles all marketing opportunities for Sheridan Construction, such as public relations and digital marketing, while supporting the estimating team in their daily operations.
“As someone who transferred twice throughout my time in college, I have a lot of experience with alumni from other universities. I find that Thomas alumni tend to see each other as family, and there is always something from Thomas you can bond over due to the small environment. To me that is really something you don’t get at other small universities, let alone bigger ones,” he said.
Seeing the next generation of Thomas Alumni begin their careers at Sheridan Construction, Scott reflects on his time with Sheridan and at Thomas College and how much both places have flourished together:
“It has been amazing to see the growth of Thomas College through continued great leadership and working with Sheridan Construction to help build Thomas College dreams.”
ALUMNI CLASS NOTES
1988
Jen Reed ’88 is the Community Pastor at Centenary United Methodist Church located in Skowhegan, ME. As the Community Pastor, Jen networks with other organizations and people in the Skowhegan area for the good of the local community. Beginning in 2020, Jen initiated collaborations with community partners from Somerset Public Health and Kennebec Family Enrichment Council to create a new domestic non-profit, Common Unity Place (CUP), in which she now serves as the Executive Director.
1994
Mike Adams ’94 has been inducted into the class of 2024 Maine Basketball of Fame. Adams had a stellar career at TC, scoring 1,521 points. Mike met his wife, Aimee ’94, at Thomas College and his daughter, Lindsey Adams ’24, recently finished her degree from Thomas College. Congrats, Mike!
SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTES
2004
Corey Pelletier ’04, M.B.A. ’12 has recently accepted a position at Lawerence High School in Fairfield, Maine as the Head Baseball Coach. Corey also serves as Thomas College’s Director of Early College. GO BULL DOGS!
2007
Aaron Bouyea ’07 was recently named to the National Association of Collegiate Director of Athletics (NACDA) Executive Committee, representing two-year college athletic directors. NACDA serves as the professional association for those in athletics administration, providing educational opportunities and a vehicle for networking and the exchange of information to others in the profession. Bouyea is Director of Athletics at Monroe Community College in Rochester, NY.
2012
Jarod Deanis ’12, M.B.A. ’14 has been promoted to Vice President of Finance & Operations at Dexter Enterprises LLC. While a student at Thomas, Jarod completed his internship at Dexter Enterprises, and has worked there ever since.
2015
Cody Leblanc ’15, M.B.A. ’16 & Kayla Leblanc ’15 welcomed the newest addition to their family, Vivian Catherine LeBlanc. She was born 8 pounds 10 ounces and 21.5 inches long!
2016
Eric Brooks, M.S. ’16 is now the Principal of Harrington Elementary School in Harrington, Maine. He also serves as the Director of Adult & Community Education for MSAD 37 and recently participated in the Education Leaders Experience with Educate Maine.
2019
Masee Shahdid ’19 and Alexis Raymond ’21 got married in June of 2023. They celebrated their wedding with two ceremonies for both cultures.
2020
Samantha (Sam) Mericer ’20, graduated from UNH with her J.D. Class of 2024 and been sworn into the New Hampshire bar becoming a licensed attorney position as an Assistant County Attorney in Belknap County, N.H. fulfilling a life long dream.
2021
MacKenzie Oberholzer ’21 and Seth Reed got engaged in November of 2023 and have begun wedding planning.
Miranda Williams ’21 and Sydney (Abbott) Williams ’21 got married in 2023.
2022
Sam Falla ’22 recently started a new position with MaineHealth as a human resources representative.
Mike Adams ’94
Corey Pelletier ’04, M.B.A. ’12
Samantha (Sam) Mericer ’20
Are you looking for a space to accommodate your next event?
THINK THOMAS COLLEGE!
Thomas College offers some of the most inspiring settings in central Maine. Host your next event here and see for yourself! Our campus is wellequipped for a range of events, including meetings, conferences, workshops, ceremonies, tournaments, practices, competitions, and camps. Plus, we provide on-site catering to meet all your needs.
When you rent a space or facility from Thomas College, our dedicated team works with you from start to finish to ensure that your event is a success.
First-time partners are eligible to RECEIVE 50% OFF the cost of their rental space. Inquire for more details. Plus:
LEARN MORE
Masee Shahdid ’19 and Alexis Raymond ’21
Cody Leblanc ’15, M.B.A. ’16 and Kayla Leblanc ’15
MacKenzie Oberholzer ’21 and Seth Reed
IN MEMORIAM
1950s
Leland M. Bessey ‘50
March 30, 2024
Jacquelyn (Goddard) Smith Black ’56 April 27, 2024
1960s
Marie F. Deeb ’62
March 5, 2024
Lucille (Fortin) Hawkes Maher ’63, ’65
April 3, 2024
1970s
Erlene (Hagan-Allen) Salldin ’70
July 18, 2023
Ronald J. Hallee ’71
December 11, 2023
Ronald B. Pike ’73
February 7, 2024
Gregory B. Richards ’73 February 8, 2024
Robert D. Poulin ’75 April 4, 2024
Frances (Giroux) Vargas ’77 February 24, 2024
E. James Thompson ’77 January 6, 2024
FOR ALUMNI QUESTIONS OR UPDATES:
SETH REED
Assistant Director of Alumni Relations
(207) 859-1339
seth.reed@thomas.edu
JEFF BATEMAN
AVP of Advancement (207) 859-1338
jeff.bateman@thomas.edu
1980s
Lynda L. Dupuis ’81
April 7, 2024
Candace (Lee) McMahon ’81 September 28, 2023
Thomas M. Chan ’85 December 24, 2023
1990s
Michael Fleming ’94 January 7, 2024
Jeannine (Raymond) Genest ’95 February 14, 2024
Peter Henrick M.B.A. ’95 January 5, 2024
Stephen K. Mazzeo ’95 December 5, 2023
Alicia J. (Polley) Bubier ’97 April 13, 2024
Jerry T. Rideout ’97 February 4, 2024
Matthew W. Galletta ’98 December 15, 2023
2000s
Charles E. Williams ’02 January 5, 2024
Friends & Family
Julia H. Ackerman December 12, 2023
Hon. Joseph E. Brennan H’85 April 6, 2024
Rev. Ron M. Cunningham April 25, 2024
Elizabeth (Bonola) Reuthe April 22, 2024
DAME MARIE FEFA DEEB ’62
FORMER FACULTY MEMBER STAFF
DAME MARIE FEFA DEEB, 98, of Waterville, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2024. It was Dame Marie’s great honor to have been invested into the Order of St. Gregory the Great by Maronite Bishop Gregory of the Archdiocese of Brooklyn on Aug. 24, 2018, for life service to the Maronite rite. Marie Fefa was born Sept. 27, 1925, to Sam and Lottie Deeb. She lived her many years in Waterville valuing family, faith, education, and service.
Marie Fefa worked at Hathaway Shirt Factory in the Accounting office for 17 years, then chose to pursue higher education. In 1959, she attended Thomas College, receiving a bachelor’s degree in business education. She continued on to receive master’s degrees in economics and accounting from the University of Maine at Orono. Marie touched the lives of many young people as a professor of Finance and Economics at Thomas College until she retired after 26 years. Service to St. Joseph Maronite Catholic Church was an integral part of Marie Fefa’s life. A choir member at seven years old to the choir director for 32 years, Marie was a lifelong contributor to the church community. She was on the Church Council and President for two years, Member of the Maronite Guild and two-year President, on the Rosary Sodality, Bingo, and Finance Committees,
and headed the church accounting office for 32 years. Marie Fefa was awarded the prestigious Massabki Medal in 1954. This is one of the highest honors bestowed on NAM (National Apostolate of Maronites) members for extraordinary contributions of their time, talent and treasure. “Fefa” was known for cooking on her wood stove, baking bread and cookies in the Lebanese tradition, and regularly cooking for church festivals and events.
Marie’s service extended to the greater Waterville community as well. She was an active volunteer at the Waterville Public Library for 27 years and the Waterville Boys’ Club for 23 years, where she was honored in their hall of fame. She was involved in the Haines Charity, Zonta Club (president), AAUW (American Association of University Women), Delta Gamma sorority for teachers, and she donated her time and talents to several other charitable and religious organizations.
Marie Fefa was fortunate to have so many valued relationships with family and friends who were like family. She was a matriarch, a nurturer, and a wonderful cook and hostess. Her absence will be felt deeply.
Dame Marie is survived by her niece Rosemarie (John) Masetta of Irving, Texas, nephew Sam (Kathleen) Deeb of East Syracuse, great nieces and nephew, Brittany (Christopher) Schwarz, Ryan Masetta, and AnneMarie and Mary Kate Deeb, great, great nephew River Schwarz many dear cousins and friends.
She was predeceased by her parents, Sam and Lottie Deeb, brother and sisterin-law George and Jean Deeb, and several cousins.
In her final months, Marie was thankful for Maine Medical Center’s doctors and nurses, Dr. Feero, her hospice nurses, many friends and relatives, and members of St. Joseph’s Maronite Catholic Church for the care, prayers and support.
Thomas Cup 2024
Team of Cheverus High School and Greeley High School Students Win
High school students from across the state gathered for the Thomas Cup, an overnight IT and innovation competition in March.
The winners of this year’s Thomas Cup are “Supah Hunks” Brody Gifford, Corbin Richter, Andrew Flanders, Hayden Harkett, and Alexander Wharton from Cheverus and Greeley High Schools.
Each member of the winning team receives a $10K scholarships to Thomas College. Second place winners earn $8K in scholarships and third place team members win $6K.
“Popcorn Fueled” team members Chase Farnsworth, Lucy Alexander, Baylee Packard, Ian Saunders, and Jamie Williams-Neptune from Dexter Regional High School took second place.
Third place team were “The Golden Girls” Aurelie Poulin, Allie Dunning, Peyton Chaisson, Addison Chaisson, and Carli Frigon from Forest Hills Regional High School.
The Thomas Cup is a free event for Maine high schoolers. Teams of five compete in science, technology, engineering, and innovation competitions for the chance to win their names on the Thomas Cup and receive scholarships to Thomas College. Competition areas include cyber defense, esports, computer science, crime scene analysis, and innovation.
The event is proudly sponsored by Central Maine Power.
