91Ö±²¥ÊÓƵ

Mia Meister, Marine Sciences major/Marine Affairs minor ’24

The Meadow Woods Preserve Fellowship supported the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust in planning for the future of a newly acquired property. The fellow designed a perimeter trail that aligned with the preserve’s ecological features and community interests, and developed a management plan for invasive plant species. They engaged with staff, volunteers, and board members to inform their work.

Sophie Piette, Marine Affairs major/Political Science and Climate Change Studies minors ’24

The ClimateWork Maine Fellowship supported the development of the Maine Climate Action Business and Innovation Network (Maine CABIN), a statewide initiative designed to help businesses navigate climate-related challenges and opportunities. The fellow contributed to the creation of an online resource library, including tools for reducing emissions, accessing financing, and implementing low-carbon technologies. They also helped convene sustainability leaders and participated in events such as the Annual Summit on Maine’s Economy and Climate Change. This work laid the foundation for a robust support system for Maine businesses committed to climate solutions.

Abby Tasca, Marine Biology major/Marine Affairs and Political Science minors ’25

The Ecology School Sustainable Business Plan Fellowship focused on developing a five-year strategic plan for River Bend Farm through the lens of sustainability in education and business. The fellow conducted research on market positioning, growth opportunities, and economic impact, while integrating environmental, educational, equity, and economic considerations. They produced a written report on the school’s economic vitality and drafted an updated sustainable business plan to guide future fundraising and strategic direction. The fellowship also included hands-on engagement with staff and sustainability education programs to inform the final deliverables.

Juliann Lapierre, Environmental Science ’24

The Meadow Woods Preserve Fellowship supported the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust in planning for the future of its newest preserve. The fellow reviewed historical and ecological documentation, engaged with community stakeholders, and designed a perimeter trail compatible with the site’s natural features. They also developed a management plan for invasive plant species in the eastern portion of the preserve. Time permitting, the fellow began training in trail construction and invasive species control alongside KCT volunteers.

Alexis Weaver, Environmental Science major/Geographic Information Systems minor ’26

The Building Municipal Resilience to Extreme Heat Fellowship supported the Town of Kittery in advancing its Climate Action Strategy by addressing urban heat islands and shade equity. The fellow mapped heat islands and tree canopy coverage, analyzed community access to shade, and developed a public shade tree policy to guide future planting and protection efforts. They also created a GIS-based report and presented findings to town officials to inform policy and ordinance development. This work contributed to Kittery’s broader goals of climate resilience, walkability, and sustainable municipal planning.

Kaci is a Marine Affairs major with a minor in Climate Change Studies from Acushnet, Massachusetts. Outside of academics, she competes on the cross-country and track teams. Through her fellowship, Kaci aims to deepen her understanding of climate action planning and contribute to UNE’s sustainability goals, supporting regional resilience and SDG efforts.

Kaci’s fellowship with the 91Ö±²¥ÊÓƵOffice of Sustainability supported the development of UNE’s third climate action plan by helping complete the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment, and Rating System (STARS) survey, a comprehensive tool used to benchmark sustainability performance across academics, operations, planning, engagement, and leadership. Based on UNE’s Biddeford Campus and guided by the associate director of Sustainability, Kaci collected and analyzed data, identified gaps in existing information, and developed recommendations for future data collection, sustainability initiatives, and carbon-reduction strategies. The fellowship provided hands-on experience within Maine’s largest private university and aligned with UNE’s mission of environmental stewardship, allowing the fellow to contribute meaningfully to strategic sustainability planning.

A senior Marine Affairs major with a Political Science minor, Miranda hails from Morris, NY. In 2024, she spent nearly the entire year abroad, including a solo backpacking trip. Through her fellowship, she looks forward to building community connections by exploring the river’s history.

The Heart of Biddeford Saco River History Fellowship focused on researching how the Saco River powered the city’s historic mills, the ecological impacts of damming, and Indigenous perspectives on waterway stewardship. As part of this work, Miranda built relationships with local historians, the Biddeford Mills Museum, and HOB’s Passamaquoddy partner to shape a narrative that connected industrial history with environmental responsibility. Based in Biddeford and mentored by HOB’s executive director, Miranda gained hands-on experience in research, community engagement, and visitor experience development, using storytelling tools such as social media, video, photography, and art to engage the public and gather feedback. The fellowship culminated in a comprehensive research report, a conceptual proposal for an educational event, art installation, or visitor experience, and contributions toward future grant development, helping lay the groundwork for new community-facing programming.

From Lee, NH, Scott recently graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Sustainability and Business and a minor in Writing. He once lived with a host family in the South of France. This summer, Scott is learning about carbon accounting in local government and expanding his professional network.

The City of Biddeford Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Inventory Fellowship supported its ongoing climate action efforts and measured progress toward the emissions-reduction targets outlined in the city’s 2023 Climate Action Plan. Working with staff in the Planning and Development Department, Scott updated Biddeford’s community-wide and municipal GHG inventories, collecting and analyzing data across key sectors such as transportation, electricity use, and residential and commercial heating. The fellowship built on a 2021 inventory and helped the city assess its progress toward achieving a 63% reduction in emissions by 2030. Scott produced an updated emissions inventory, accompanying graphics and analysis, recommendations for future climate actions, and a presentation to the Biddeford Sustainability Commission, gaining experience in data analysis, climate planning, and municipal collaboration.

Sophie is an Environmental Studies major from Lowell, Massachusetts. She enjoys writing fantasy and sci-fi stories and is working to expand her GIS and drone survey skills during the fellowship. Her interests lie in using maps and visuals to enhance sustainability communication.

Save Our Shores Saco Bay Coastal Mapping Fellowship focused on creating high-resolution baseline maps of the southern Saco Bay coastline ahead of major U.S. Army Corps of Engineers construction planned for 2026. Working with mentors from SOS Saco Bay and the 91Ö±²¥ÊÓƵ, Sophie produced detailed terrestrial topography maps using a UAV equipped with lidar and baseline ocean bathymetry maps collected via echo sounder, generating essential data to measure future changes in coastal erosion and deposition. The fellowship also included processing GIS data, preparing datasets for long-term comparison, documenting methods, and presenting results and recommendations for future mapping efforts. This work supported the region’s broader coastal resilience efforts and contributed to understanding the impacts of large-scale shoreline engineering projects.

Hailing from Madison, Wisconsin, Annika is a 2025 91Ö±²¥ÊÓƵgraduate with a major in Marine Science and a minor in Climate Change Studies. A fun fact is that Annika is a shareholder in the Green Bay Packers. She is excited to build relationships within the community and advocate for better science communication.

The Kennebunkport Conservation Trust (KCT) Goat Island Lighthouse Fellowship provided crucial support for long-term planning for Goat Island and its historic lighthouse at a pivotal moment of transition. With longtime lighthouse keepers retiring, new sustainable energy systems recently installed, and climate change posing increasing risks, Annika helped KCT envision a future management approach for the island. Working closely with KCT staff, board members, and other stakeholders, Annika gained an in-depth understanding of the island’s history, assessed current structural and environmental challenges, and contributed to the development of a new management plan. The fellowship also involved researching how similar coastal properties are addressing climate impacts and exploring lighthouse management and visitation models across New England. As part of the experience, the fellow had opportunities to join island apprentices in greeting visitors and assisting with maintenance, contributing to a holistic understanding of this iconic coastal property.

From Marshfield, Massachusetts, Regina is studying Environmental Science with a minor in GIS. A fun fact is that she once went on a month-long camping trip in the U.S. She’s excited to work on climate adaptation solutions and lighthouse resilience while promoting public awareness.

The American Lighthouse Foundation Maine Light Station Fellowship supported preservation and climate-resilience planning for Maine’s historic lighthouses following their 2025 inclusion on the World Monuments Fund Global Watch List. Building on the damage caused by the January 2024 coastal storms, Regina developed case studies documenting storm impacts at selected light stations and created foundational monitoring and management plans to guide future stewardship. Working with experts from ALF, the Presumpscot Foundation, and 91Ö±²¥ÊÓƵNorth, Regina assessed storm-related vulnerabilities, explored adaptation and resiliency strategies, and highlighted opportunities for programming, training, and policy discussions tied to lighthouse preservation. The fellowship laid the groundwork for broader conversations about preparedness and long-term resilience for Maine’s coastal sentinels, including the production of reports, imagery, slides, and a final presentation to ALF leadership.

Ruth is a senior Environmental Science major with a GIS minor from Merrimack, NH. Ruth has a love for maple sugaring and water-based recreation. This summer, she aims to strengthen her collaboration and problem-solving skills while addressing climate and public health challenges.

Apriqot’s Environmental Data Mapping Fellowship focused on expanding the company’s population-level spatial model by integrating new environmental data layers. Working with Apriqot’s analytics team, Ruth mapped the distribution of air-to-air heat pump installations across Maine from the past five years and explored additional environmental indicators such as air and water quality. By combining these datasets with Apriqot’s parcel-level demographic and housing information, Ruth helped uncover insights into climate-related vulnerabilities — for example, identifying older adults at higher risk during extreme heat due to inefficient housing and lack of cooling technologies. The fellowship produced a new environmental data layer, a visual representation and methods report, and groundwork for future research, papers, and presentations, all supporting more targeted and equitable public health and sustainability planning in a warming Maine.

An Environmental Studies major with a minor in GIS, Bailey is from Plymouth, Massachusetts. A fun fact is that Bailey is crocheting a blanket over six feet long. Through this fellowship, Bailey aims to improve land management skills and explore ways to inspire public care for protected lands.

The Kittery Land Trust (KLT) Andrews Preserve Fellowship supported the sustainable stewardship and future public opening of the 84.5-acre Andrews Preserve in northwest Kittery. With new adjacent land and parking soon expanding public access, Bailey helped prepare the preserve by researching its history and past uses, assessing ecological conditions, and addressing management needs such as invasive plant control and care for recently planted American chestnut trees. Working with KLT staff and the Stewardship Committee, Bailey created a baseline report and management plan, mapped boundaries, coordinated volunteer workdays, and contributed to tasks like trail mapping and habitat restoration. This fellowship advanced the trust’s mission of conserving land while building community through responsible, well-planned access to natural spaces.

From Colchester, Connecticut, Luke studies Biological Sciences with a minor in Environmental Studies. He collects plants and currently owns over 40 varieties. Luke hopes to develop his leadership and communication skills while promoting sustainability among youth. He’s especially interested in fostering local community engagement in sustainable practices.

The Boyd Street Urban Farm Fellowship supported Cultivating Community’s mission to advance food justice in Portland by improving the long-term sustainability of the urban farm. During the fellowship, Luke assessed the orchard, identifying diseases, pest pressures, and rejuvenation practices for trees that had not fruited in recent years; developed a comprehensive composting plan to address undersized and ineffective bins; and created a systematic approach for managing invasive species, including an annual maintenance guide for staff. Engaging with the community through volunteer days, Luke incorporated local perspectives into their recommendations, ultimately delivering a sustainable orchard management plan, an implementable composting system, and practical long-term guides to ensure the continued health and productivity of Boyd Street Urban Farm.

Emma studies Marine Biology with a minor in Environmental Studies and is from Las Vegas, Nevada. She recently became scuba certified, which deepened her passion for marine conservation. Through her fellowship, she aims to engage with local communities and raise awareness about ecosystem health.

The Water Conservation Fellowship with Trout Unlimited in Yarmouth, Maine, focused on engaging the public in protecting and restoring local cold-water fisheries and watersheds. Over the summer, Emma organized and led three stream trash clean-up events to improve water quality and actively co-managed a speaker series that educated members and the public on conservation, water quality, fish health, and aquatic ecosystems. The fellowship also involved developing a replicable marketing campaign and a guide for future events, combining hands-on conservation work with public outreach to advance Trout Unlimited’s mission of habitat restoration and community engagement.

A Marine Science major from Salem, Massachusetts, Milo previously studied Ceramics, which still informs their scientific creativity. They aim to build connections and explore the link between marine science, policy, and community.

The Eelgrass and Aquaculture Fellowship with the Casco Bay Estuary Partnership in Portland, Maine, focused on studying the interactions between eelgrass beds and shellfish aquaculture in Casco Bay. Milo conducted field monitoring of eelgrass health near aquaculture leases, potentially including transplant experiments, while engaging with aquaculturists to gain a deeper understanding of their perspectives on eelgrass and its management. The fellowship combined scientific research with outreach and education, culminating in a report summarizing biological interactions and aquaculturist perceptions, as well as a presentation to CBEP’s Management Committee. This work advanced understanding of potential mutual benefits between sustainable aquaculture and eelgrass conservation, supporting both marine ecosystem health and local shellfish industries.

Ashley is a senior double majoring in Marine Science and Environmental Studies from Skowhegan, Maine. Ashley lives with a deaf bulldog and two cats. Her goals include improving GIS skills, building professional relationships, and contributing to conservation.

The Terrestrial Mapping Fellowship with the Chebeague and Cumberland Land Trust in Cumberland, Maine, focused on creating and updating accurate maps for the trust’s properties to support improved signage and public access. Ashley collected GIS data across approximately 20 properties on Chebeague Island and in Cumberland, documenting trails, topography, bodies of water, parking, and other key features. Building on prior student work, Ashley produced precise shape files and high-quality maps for trail kiosks and the Trust’s website, quantified total trail mileage, and, time permitting, contributed to an interactive online map of conserved lands. This fellowship combined technical GIS work with stewardship goals, enhancing visitor experiences and supporting CCLT’s mission to make its natural areas accessible and welcoming.

Isabel is a rising junior majoring in Environmental Science with a minor in Public Health, originally from Gaithersburg, Maryland. A fun fact is that she has a 160-pound St. Bernard. Isabel is eager to learn more about campus resource systems and waste reduction strategies.

The P.D. Merrill Resource Recovery Fellowship at 91Ö±²¥ÊÓƵfocused on improving campus waste management and advancing sustainability goals outlined in UNE’s Climate Action Plan. Isabel worked with the 91Ö±²¥ÊÓƵOffice of Sustainability and the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship to map and analyze waste systems across the Biddeford and Portland campuses, including generation, collection, storage, transfers, processing, and the roles of campus stakeholders. Deliverables included a detailed systems map, data analysis, and recommendations for reducing waste through improved procurement, recycling, composting, and event management practices. The fellowship also contributed to UNE’s Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Rating System (STARS) reporting, combining data-driven analysis with stakeholder engagement to support a more sustainable and resilient campus.

Originally from northern Vermont, Samantha recently graduated with a degree in Marine Affairs and a minor in Marine Biology. A fun fact about her is that she enjoys reading and writing philosophical essays. This summer, she hopes to build confidence in networking and public engagement, which are crucial to her career goals.

The Reducing Food Waste Fellowship with the Town of Cumberland Sustainability Subcommittee focused on reducing residential food waste and supporting the town’s Climate Action Plan goals. Samantha researched to quantify the type, amount, and flow of food waste in the community through surveys, interviews, and sample analysis, while collaborating with EcoMaine to understand the waste composition. Based on these findings, Samantha developed policy recommendations informed by practices from other municipalities in Maine and New England and prepared a communications and education program to raise public awareness. Deliverables included a written report and a presentation to the town council, providing data-driven strategies to reduce food waste and promote sustainability across the town.

Maddy is a Marine Science student from Skaneateles, NY. Maddy is eager to connect with aquaculture farmers and explore the link between eelgrass and shellfish. She’s also committed to advancing sustainable cities and communities, climate action, clean water, and public health as she navigates the transition from academia to a professional career.

The Eelgrass and Aquaculture Fellowship with the Casco Bay Estuary Partnership (CBEP) in Portland, Maine, focused on studying the interactions between eelgrass beds and shellfish aquaculture in Casco Bay. Maddy conducted field monitoring of eelgrass health near aquaculture leases, including possible transplant experiments, while engaging with aquaculturists to understand their perspectives on eelgrass and its management. The fellowship combined scientific research with outreach and education, resulting in a report summarizing biological interactions and aquaculturist perceptions, as well as a presentation to CBEP’s Management Committee. This work helped clarify potential mutual benefits between sustainable aquaculture and eelgrass conservation, supporting both ecosystem health and the local shellfish industry.

Originally from Paxton, Massachusetts, Abby recently graduated with a Marine Sciences degree and a minor in Marine Affairs. A fun fact is that she’s seen a North Atlantic Right Whale up close. Abby is interested in marine law and Arctic policy and hopes this fellowship opens future career opportunities.

The P.D. Merrill SeaMade Bar Fellowship at 91Ö±²¥ÊÓƵfocused on advancing the development, sustainability, and local sourcing of the SeaMade seaweed nutrition bar. Building on work by a student innovation team, Abby researched and evaluated plastic-free, bio-based packaging options, producing an executive summary and recommendations. Abby also conducted kitchen temperature monitoring, compiling data for safety, certification, and 91Ö±²¥ÊÓƵSTARS reporting, and assisted with ingredient verification, label creation, and the aesthetic design of the packaging in collaboration with 91Ö±²¥ÊÓƵAdmissions and Marketing. This fellowship combined sustainability research, food production, and branding, supporting the long-term viability and environmentally responsible growth of the SeaMade Bar project.