University of Southern Maine to Host 10th Annual Southern Maine Children’s Water Festival on the Portland Campus
USM’s Portland campus is preparing for a flood. On Friday, May 21, more than 800 fifth- and sixth-grade students and teachers from 17 elementary and middle schools will be joining USM faculty, staff and students for a day celebrating water. The students will learn about clean water, ecosystems and precious Maine water resources. USM, along with the DEP, EPA, other environmental groups and the private sector, have filled the day’s schedule with fun presentations and hands-on exhibits that focus on water education. The result of this collaboration is an event filled with contests, quiz shows, demonstrations, and musical entertainment. (more…)
Award-winning author Phillip Hoose of Portland advised graduates to learn from rejection, be adaptable, support the arts and to unplug their laptops during his keynote address at USM’s 130th Commencement ceremony. He was also presented with an honorary doctor of humane letters. Advocating they take time off from work, Hoose led the audience in a rendition of the Charlie King song, “Bring Back the Eight Hour Day.” Last November his book, “Claudette Clovin: Twice Toward Justice” received the National Book Award in the young readers category. In January, he received the Newbery Honor for a prominent contribution to literature for young readers.
Student commencement speaker Jared Karrer of Eliot is a member of the Maine National Guard, who expected to be in Iraq this semester. Speaking to the audience about the uncertainty he felt upon learning his battalion had been told to stand down, he stated, “Humility in the face of losing all control is empowering.” Karrer, a 2005 graduate of Marshwood High School, joined the Maine Army National Guard while still a senior in high school, and began his studies at USM in the fall of 2006. He served as the secretary of USM’s Bahai Campus Association.