UMA has welcomed five new members to its Board of Visitors, all UMA graduates who are leading, serving and making a difference in communities across Maine.
Each brings a unique perspective shaped by experience, resilience and connection to UMA’s mission. As alumni, they understand what it means to build an education around real life, balancing work, family and community while pursuing new opportunities. Now, they are helping guide UMA’s future with that same sense of purpose.
“These new members reflect the heart of UMA,” said UMA President Jenifer Cushman. “They have built careers that make a difference, they are deeply engaged in their communities, and they bring perspectives that help us better understand and support all learners.”
New Members of the UMA Board of Visitors
- Justin Chenette ’21, Chief Communications Officer, Sweetser
- Mathew Collins ’12, MBA, Vice President of Strategy and Partnerships, Andwell Health Partners
- TJ Herlihy ’24, Financial Advisor, Means Wealth Management
- Amy Marston ’04, Founder, Edison Public Relations
- Angela Oechslie ’12, Director for STEM Pathways & Innovation, Educate Maine
The new alumni members bring experience in workforce development, communications, health care, finance and education. Each is deeply connected to their community and committed to helping Maine people thrive through opportunity, learning and service.
They join an already impressive group of UMA Board of Visitors members, including Randall Liberty (chair), Diane Dunn (vice chair), Jennifer Riggs (past chair), Susan Baker, Shenna Bellows, Mike Johnson and Soumia Iber. Together, this Board of Visitors brings decades of leadership, public service and community connection to UMA.
The Board advises UMA’s leadership on strategy, partnerships and engagement, serving as ambassadors who help UMA stay grounded in Maine’s communities. The addition of these alumni leaders comes during UMA’s 60th Anniversary year, a moment to honor UMA’s past and look ahead to a future that is inclusive, opportunity-rich and responsive to the real needs of Maine learners.
“When our graduates return to help lead the university, it speaks volumes,” President Cushman said. “They know the challenges and opportunities our students face, and they are helping us build a stronger future for Maine.”