Ariel Cassista Lefebvre

Ariel has been a valued member of the University of Maine at Augusta community since 2007, contributing her expertise across Enrollment Management, Institutional Research, and Admissions. She currently serves as Associate Director of Enrollment Systems and Engagement Strategy, where she oversees enrollment technologies, prospective student communications, digital engagement initiatives, and student outreach strategies. Through her work, Ariel helps create meaningful connections between prospective students and the institution while supporting enrollment efforts across the student lifecycle.

Ariel’s passion for education blossomed later in life. Once unsure of her own college prospects, she is now a proud UMA alumna, having completed both an Associate of Arts in Liberal Studies (magna cum laude) and a Bachelor of Liberal Studies (cum laude) while working full time. A Rising Scholar and Student Commencement Speaker finalist, she exemplifies how persistence, opportunity, and lifelong learning can transform lives.

Her journey as a nontraditional student gives her a unique perspective and a deep connection to the students she serves. Ariel believes strongly in the power of combining real-world experience with academic education and is dedicated to expanding access to higher education for learners of all backgrounds. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Adult and Higher Education at the University of Southern Maine, where she continues to explore how institutions can better support student success, belonging, and engagement.

Ariel values creating genuine connections with students, having conversations that nobody once had with her, and helping learners discover possibilities they may not yet see for themselves.

She also serves on the Board of Directors for the Greater Augusta Back to School Program, helping young people access the resources they need to be prepared for school and ready to embrace lifelong learning. A graduate of the Kennebec Leadership Institute, Ariel is deeply committed to strengthening educational opportunities and community partnerships throughout Maine.

Outside of her professional role, Ariel embraces the simple joys of life. After spending most of her life showing dogs, she can often be found petting any animal within reach, gardening, or cheering on Moose athletic teams with her husband, who is also a proud member of the UMA family.