Not every career path begins with a clear plan.
For Amy Marston, the journey started with a setback. After being turned away from her top-choice college, she found herself searching for another way forward. That search led her to the University of Maine at Augusta.
What began as an alternative became the foundation for a two-decade career in Maine’s business sector. That journey of resilience and leadership led UMA to name Amy Marston the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient.
A Different Kind of Classroom
At UMA, Amy found a learning environment that broadened her perspective. Her classmates came from all walks of life, bringing professional and personal experiences that shaped how she understood the world.
She earned her degree in Business Administration in 2004, but the lessons extended beyond the classroom. That experience influenced how she approached leadership, teamwork, and the role organizations play in building strong communities.
Building a Career in Maine
Following graduation, Amy built a long and impactful career at Central Maine Power. Over two decades, she developed a deep understanding of workforce development, leadership, and organizational growth.
Today, she is the founder of Edison Public Relations, where she works with businesses across Maine, including those in the workforce and trade sectors. Her work focuses on helping organizations grow, connect, and build strong teams.
Giving Back to Community and Industry
Amy’s impact extends beyond her professional work. She remains actively involved in efforts that create opportunity for others across the state, including:
- Maine Blue Collar Scholarship Foundation
- Jobs for Maine Graduates (JMG)
- Augusta Food Bank
Through this work, she continues to support the next generation of Maine’s workforce while strengthening her local community.
A Full Circle Moment
Now, as a member of UMA’s Board of Visitors, Amy has come full circle. She is investing in the institution that helped shape her path and helping ensure others have access to the same opportunity.
Beyond Commencement Day
Amy’s story is a reminder that the impact of a UMA education does not end at graduation.
For many students, UMA is more than a place to earn a degree. It is where a path forward begins.