A heartfelt welcome from the Office of Student Activities, here at the University of Maine at Presque Isle to all of our new students and a warm welcome back to all of our returning students! My name is Violet M. Washburn and I am the new Coordinator of Campus Engagement and International Student Services here at UMPI. I’m coming from Albany, N.Y., and I am humbly enjoying all that northern Maine has to offer. I’m excited to welcome the incoming class and meet all of our returning students. I’ve been busy planning for the semester and can’t wait until I get to see all of your faces. I have an amazing staff of students who work right along with me and I am grateful to have them. We hope you’re as excited as we are to soar right into the 2017-2018 academic year!

The Office of Student Activities oversees 30 student-led clubs and organizations in addition to putting on a number of exciting events, programs and activities for not only students, but the community as well,  throughout the academic year. There really is something for everyone so please get out and get engaged! UMPI students are involved in cultural, social, academic, musical, religious, athletic, artistic and so many more organizations. These organizations are leadership-developing and horizon-broadening. They put on many activities both on and off campus.

 

Student Activities Office Mission Statement

The Student Activities Office (SAO) at the University of Maine at Presque Isle complements the academic experience by fostering student learning and development through social, educational and cultural events and programs. SAO strives to enhance each student’s individual character, citizenship, institutional spirit, a sense of community and respect for human difference.

 

Student Activities Office Commitment Statement

Our commitment begins with:

  • Engagement: To engage students by serving as a resource, offering activities and providing opportunities for leadership development. Through involvement students will explore new ideas and interests, be exposed to diverse perspectives and beliefs, and create meaningful relationships.

 

That engagement leads to:

  • Empowerment: To empower students to take initiative, make positive decisions and become successful leaders. Students will build self-confidence, learn how to overcome adversity and act on issues they value.

 

That empowerment leads to:

  • Enrichment: To enable and inspire students to enrich the lives of individuals locally, nationally and internationally. Students will be socially responsible and committed to serving the greater good.

 

    

     These efforts culminate in civically responsible individuals who are motivated to make a difference.

 

 

We have a full schedule of campus programs/events/activities and student group events set for fall semester. Keep an eye out around campus, read the weekly Toilet Talk, check out the calendar outside of the Student Activities Office in the Campus Center or ask a friend about what is going on around campus – there will always be something!

With events that promote learning, leadership development and fun, who wouldn’t want to become involved on campus? Don’t hesitate to reach out to Violet M. Washburn, the coordinator of campus engagement and international student services by email: violet.washburn@maine.edu or in person on the first floor of the Campus Center.

I value your input! What events would you like to see on campus? What clubs or organizations would you like to see formed? How do you want to be involved? If you have any suggestions, ideas, questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out! Your college experience is what you make of it–don’t be afraid to grab a friend, step out of your comfort zone, try something new and get involved! Now go SOAR.