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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 UNE Office 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 Â鶹ֱ²¥, 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 UNE graduate 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 UNE North, 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 UNE focused on improving campus waste management and advancing sustainability goals outlined in UNE’s Climate Action Plan. Isabel worked with the UNE Office 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 UNE focused 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 UNE STARS reporting, and assisted with ingredient verification, label creation, and the aesthetic design of the packaging in collaboration with UNE Admissions 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.

Lauren Ballou is a senior at UNE majoring in Environmental Studies with a minor in Political Science. She spends most of her time in the small town of Weare, New Hampshire, wandering or sunbathing with her dog. She loves to travel whenever she can, especially anywhere with a beach. As an invasive species and water quality intern with the Scarborough Land Trust, Lauren learned about environmental stewardship and land conservation, as well as the best ways to connect with and serve the Scarborough community.

This fellowship focused on addressing two environmental challenges affecting Scarborough's natural resources: invasive species management and water quality monitoring. By combining field research, ecological stewardship, and community engagement, the project supported efforts to improve habitat health, strengthen ecosystem resilience, and inform conservation strategies for the Scarborough Marsh and surrounding preserves.

The fellowship contributed to mapping and management planning for invasive species such as buckthorn and Japanese knotweed while also supporting volunteer engagement and public education efforts. In addition, the work included monitoring water quality and blue crab populations, analyzing environmental data, and sharing findings with local partners and agencies to help guide future resource management and marsh conservation initiatives.

Samantha Billmyer is a 2026 UNE graduate with a B.S. in Marine Science (Marine Biology concentration) and a minor in Climate Change Studies. From Whitinsville, Massachusetts, she spends summers with her family in Caissie Cape, New Brunswick, deepening her love of the ocean. Samantha spearheaded a community-based science project in the Casco Bay watershed through Portland-based nonprofit Friends of Casco Bay, directing volunteer reporters in an effort to map declining eelgrass beds throughout the bay area. She gained an understanding of why eelgrass is declining in Casco Bay while exploring how community-based science can aid and strengthen marine conservation efforts.

This fellowship focused on engaging community volunteers in monitoring and documenting eelgrass habitats throughout Casco Bay as part of the Seagrass Snapshot community science initiative. By supporting data collection, volunteer coordination, and environmental monitoring efforts, the project helped expand understanding of eelgrass distribution and contribute to ongoing research on the health of Casco Bay.

The fellowship produced coordinated field events, GIS mapping of eelgrass observations, and analyses comparing current findings with data from previous years. The work also resulted in educational and research materials that highlighted the ecological importance of eelgrass and demonstrated how community-generated data can support habitat protection, restoration efforts, and climate resilience in Casco Bay.

From Bellingham, Massachusetts, Ethan Bombard is going into their senior year as a Marine Science major with minors in Applied Mathematics and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). They grew a passion for marine science and climate research growing up in Bellingham, Massachusetts, and spending many summers in Cape Cod. This summer, Ethan worked with Historic New England to use drone imagery to create a 3D model of the Sayward Wheeler house in York, Maine, assessing the property for climate risks and creating interactive maintenance information for historic homes.

This fellowship focused on helping Historic New England develop resources that increase awareness of climate change impacts on historic buildings and landscapes across New England. By combining climate risk assessment, historic preservation, and digital visualization, the project explored how climate resilience strategies can help protect culturally significant properties for future generations.

The fellowship contributed to the development of an interactive tool that identifies climate-related risks facing historic homes and offers information on adaptation and mitigation strategies. The work included creating a detailed 3D model of a historic property and its surrounding landscape, compiling resources on climate resilience for historic structures, and producing educational materials and presentations to support public engagement and preservation efforts.

A senior at UNE, Arden Caley is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies. Growing up in Sammamish, Washington, she spent many summers with family on Orcas Island and camping on the Olympic Coast. This summer, Arden worked with the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust to transform a run-down garden into a living native plant seed bank to provide seeds for the Patsy Bray Mahoney Pollinator Meadows while boosting the biodiversity of the area and creating necessary habitats for pollinators. She learned more about native plants and pollinator species while connecting with the Kennebunkport community through educational and volunteer opportunities.

This fellowship focused on creating a living seed bank to support habitat restoration, pollinator conservation, and native plant propagation throughout Kennebunkport. By combining ecological planning, land stewardship, and community engagement, the project advanced efforts to strengthen local biodiversity and expand access to native plants that support healthy ecosystems.

The fellowship contributed to the design and management of a native plant seed bank, including the identification of suitable species, development of seed collection and storage protocols, and creation of long-term management plans. The work also supported ongoing restoration efforts at the Patsy Bray Mahoney Pollinator Meadows and helped establish resources that can be used to enhance pollinator habitats across Kennebunkport Conservation Trust properties and within the broader community.

Emma Christopher studied Marine Science at the Â鶹ֱ²¥ and earned her bachelor’s degree in 2025, followed by her master’s degree in 2026. She grew up in Rockport, Massachusetts, where she developed a deep connection to nature, especially the ocean. This summer, Emma collaborated with the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, to investigate patterns in dolphin mass stranding. She gained a better understanding of the environmental conditions associated with large mass stranding events while informing response teams and the general public.

This fellowship focused on supporting marine mammal rescue, response, and conservation efforts in the Gulf of Maine while exploring the connections between wildlife health, ecosystem change, and sustainable ocean stewardship. Through field-based conservation work and scientific research, the project contributed to a better understanding of the challenges facing marine mammals and the changing marine environment.

The fellowship included participation in marine mammal stranding response activities, biological data collection, and analysis of veterinary and satellite telemetry data from rescued dolphins. The work helped inform assessments of animal health, post-release survival, habitat use, and ecosystem change while also producing educational and research materials that connect marine mammal conservation to broader goals of biodiversity protection and sustainable ocean management.

Chantal is a senior at the Â鶹ֱ²¥ with a major in Nutrition and a minor in Public Health. Originally from Auburn, Maine, she grew up working on a local raspberry and blueberry farm, where she developed a passion for food production and agriculture. Chantal is passionate about nutrition education, improving food accessibility, learning and sharing gardening knowledge, and cooking and baking gluten-free/allergy-friendly recipes. Through her fellowship experience with Cultivating Community, she strived to make a positive impact on community wellbeing by empowering individuals with the knowledge and resources to grow their own food.

This fellowship focused on improving the climate resilience, functionality, and long-term sustainability of urban agriculture projects operated by Cultivating Community. Through a combination of research, planning, community engagement, and hands-on implementation, the project supported efforts to strengthen food access and enhance community garden infrastructure in Portland's underserved neighborhoods.

The fellowship contributed to the design and implementation of improved composting systems, development of shade structures, and enhancements to community garden spaces that better support gardeners, volunteers, and residents. The work also included outreach and engagement activities to encourage adoption and long-term success of these improvements, helping create more resilient, accessible, and sustainable urban agriculture spaces for the communities they serve.

Kayleigh Duncan recently graduated from the Â鶹ֱ²¥ with a major in Communications and a minor in Environmental Studies. Originally from Simi Valley, California, she currently lives in Chelmsford, Massachusetts. This summer, Kayleigh worked with the Town of Kennebunk on the Blueberries to Beaches Sustainability Fellowship to create short- and long-form films highlighting Kennebunk's trail network, conservation efforts, and the people working to protect the area's natural resources. She strengthened her skills in environmental storytelling while learning how media can inspire conservation and community engagement.

This fellowship supported the early planning and development of the Blueberries to Beaches Trail, an initiative led by the Town of Kennebunk to create a continuous non-vehicular route connecting the town’s three villages with its coastline. Guided by the town’s sustainability, recreation, and conservation goals, the project explored opportunities to improve access and mobility, connect natural and recreational assets, promote public health, and showcase some of Kennebunk’s most scenic destinations.

The fellowship contributed to evaluating potential trail alignments, researching case studies from communities with similar trail networks, and examining environmental, technical, and policy considerations related to trail development. Additional work focused on identifying funding and grant opportunities; exploring strategies to incorporate local character through landscaping, public art, and wayfinding; and supporting stakeholder engagement efforts to build community awareness and support for the long-term vision of the trail.

Robyn Hamilton is a 2026 graduate of the Â鶹ֱ²¥ with a B.S. in Environmental Science and a minor in Marine Biology. From North Attleboro, Massachusetts, she has spent much of her life outdoors both on land and at sea and has worked with a wide range of animal species, from Maine’s native reptiles to marine shellfish. This summer, Robyn worked with CoastX, a new nonprofit focused on providing students an opportunity to engage in various marine-related disciplines. They enjoyed further refining their skills in public education and event management while making an impact and getting more students engaged in marine biology.

This fellowship focused on supporting hands-on ocean education programs that introduce middle and high school students to environmental stewardship, marine science, engineering, and blue economy careers. Through immersive learning experiences, students explored topics such as remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs), ocean research, engineering design, coastal data collection, and creative problem-solving while working alongside industry professionals and mentors.

The fellowship contributed to the development of educational resources, field-based learning experiences, and outreach materials that make ocean science accessible and engaging for students and the broader community. The work also supported program operations, environmental data collection and reporting, and the continued growth of experiential learning opportunities that help prepare the next generation of coastal innovators and ocean stewards.

Corinna Hobbs is a senior at the Â鶹ֱ²¥ with a major in Biological Sciences and a minor in Environmental Studies. Originally from Hinesburg, Vermont, she developed a love of the outdoors growing up between the Green Mountains and Lake Champlain. Over a decade, Corinna was a dedicated member of 4-H specializing in ovine, which contributed to her passion for conservation. As a fellow at Maine Timber Research and Environmental Education (TREE), she gained knowledge related to forestry techniques and opened gateways into the larger forestry conservation community.

This fellowship focused on assessing how climate change may affect coastal oak-pine forests and supporting the development of a long-term forest management strategy for the Holt Research Forest. By combining ecological research, climate science, and forest planning, the project helped identify potential risks to forest health, biodiversity, and ecosystem resilience while informing sustainable management decisions for the coming decade.

The fellowship contributed to a climate vulnerability assessment through the analysis of long-term ecological monitoring data, GIS mapping, and research on species and habitat sensitivity to climate-related stressors. The work resulted in recommendations for sustainable forest management, ecological restoration, and climate adaptation strategies, along with reports and presentations to support future planning, research, and public outreach efforts.

Having just completed his first year at UNE, Isaac Jordan is a Business Administration student with plans to double-major in Supply Chain Management. Originally hailing from East Bridgewater, Massachusetts, he enjoys reading, studying geography, and thrifting. Through his position with IDEXX this summer, Isaac gained insight that will shape his career path and his mastery of sustainable procurement. He hopes to have made a lasting difference in the way that IDEXX looks at sustainability.

Cole LaChapelle is a senior at UNE pursuing a dual degree in Sustainable Ecological Aquaculture and Marine Affairs. Hailing from Andover, Massachusetts, they spend the majority of their free time rereading one of many well-loved books or writing and editing an endless slew of work-in-progress pieces. Working with the Boothbay Sea and Science Center, Cole put this writing practice to the test by creating a sustainable education curriculum for teachers to use in their classrooms, ranging from grades 6–12. Throughout this process, they developed and honed their formal presentation and networking skills while conveying scientific information to people who may not have a background in sustainability.

This fellowship focused on developing a hands-on seaweed farming curriculum for middle and high school students to teach the principles and practices of regenerative aquaculture. The project connected environmental sustainability, community engagement, and economic development by creating educational experiences that demonstrated how seaweed farming can support healthy coastal ecosystems and local communities.

The fellowship produced a comprehensive curriculum that included classroom activities, student assessments, scientific journaling opportunities, and project-based learning. The work also explored the environmental impacts and economic potential of seaweed farming through research, community partnerships, educational outreach materials, and analyses of sustainable business opportunities and green career pathways within Maine's growing aquaculture sector.

Ella Livengood is a senior at UNE with a major in Environmental Studies and a minor in Public Health. Originally from Alstead, New Hampshire, she enjoys exploring Maine’s coast through kayaking, hiking, and beach days. Working with the Scarborough Land Trust this summer, Ella helped build a valuable communications tool to promote all they do for both the environment and the greater Scarborough community. This fellowship combined her love for the environment with her interest in working with people — something she hopes to continue in her future career endeavors, specifically in the nonprofit sector.

This fellowship focused on strengthening community engagement and public understanding of conservation, climate resilience, and land stewardship through strategic sustainability communications. By evaluating existing outreach efforts and developing new communication resources, the project helped the Scarborough Land Trust better connect with residents, volunteers, partners, and other stakeholders while advancing its environmental mission.

The fellowship contributed to a communications audit, stakeholder engagement analysis, and the creation of outreach materials designed for a variety of audiences and platforms. The work also included developing communication guidelines, strategic recommendations aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and reusable tools to support long-term outreach, education, and community engagement efforts.

Alexa Livingston graduated from UNE in December 2024 with a bachelor’s in Environmental Studies and a minor in Writing. Originally from Cobleskill, New York, and currently living in Hollis, Maine, she enjoys creative writing, beach time, reading, and hanging out with her pet lizard. Alexa is passionate about conservation with broader societal impacts. Through her work with the Saco Watershed Collaborative, she made lasting connections and partnerships with Maine communities while finding ways to support future conservation efforts using nature-based strategies. 

This fellowship focused on helping municipalities across the Saco Watershed identify and implement nature-based solutions that support climate adaptation, habitat protection, and watershed resilience. By combining research, outreach, and relationship-building, the project worked to increase awareness of strategies such as living shorelines, rain gardens, and grassland conservation while aligning local efforts with broader climate and sustainability goals.

The fellowship included developing and conducting surveys and interviews with municipal leaders, analyzing community needs and existing capacities, and creating recommendations tailored to participating communities. The work culminated in reports and outreach resources designed to support future implementation of nature-based solutions, strengthen regional collaboration, and advance climate resilience throughout the Saco Watershed.

Jackson Martine is a senior Marine Science major from Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. He’s an avid member of club volleyball and SCUBA Club at UNE. With frequent visits to the Jersey Shore and many hours spent outside, Jackson is invested in mitigating the impact that invasive species have on the marine environment. Through his work with shell + claw — a startup based in York, Maine — he helped build the foundation for a soft-shell green crab fishery that moves green crabs out of the water and onto more plates.

This fellowship focused on researching ways to improve the economic viability of harvesting and marketing invasive European green crabs as a sustainable seafood product. By combining aquaculture research, fisheries management, and seafood market development, the project explored opportunities to reduce the impact of invasive species while creating value from an underutilized marine resource.

The fellowship contributed to an experimental study examining whether male green crabs that were not immediately ready to molt could later be converted into high-value soft-shell products under controlled conditions. The work included data collection on crab growth and molt success, evaluation of farming and production practices, and analysis of operational and economic factors that influence the long-term sustainability of soft-shell green crab production.

From Poland, Maine, Eliza Neill graduated from UNE in 2026 with a bachelor’s in Nutrition and a minor in Public Health. She is passionate about creating healthier, more sustainable communities by connecting nutrition and food systems. As a sustainability fellow at Hannaford, Eliza supported a food recovery platform that will help increase Fresh Rescue donations by connecting surplus food with local hunger-relief organizations. Her work focused on implementing a sustainable system that ensures more nutritious food reaches people instead of becoming waste.

This fellowship focused on strengthening Hannaford’s Fresh Rescue program, which donates surplus, safe-to-eat food to hunger-relief organizations across the Northeast. The project examined food donation practices throughout Hannaford's retail network and explored opportunities to improve consistency, efficiency, and food recovery outcomes while reducing waste and increasing community impact.

The fellowship contributed to the assessment and refinement of donation processes, development of training and communication materials, and evaluation of technology solutions designed to streamline food rescue operations. The work also included analyzing pilot program results, identifying best practices, and providing recommendations to support increased food donations, stronger partnerships with hunger-relief organizations, and long-term program growth across Hannaford's service area.

A sophomore from Joppa, Maryland, Elizabeth O’Brien studies Marine Sciences at the Â鶹ֱ²¥. They work for UNE’s Office of Sustainability as an Eco-Representative and have been a part of a multitude of research projects, from deploying environmental monitoring equipment to mapping dune grass. With the help of their host organization, the Biddeford Coastal Preservation Coalition, Elizabeth created a wave tank in UNE’s Marine Science Center. They gained hands-on experience with technology that monitors and models coastal systems while communicating with people who are affected by the rapidly changing climate.

This fellowship focused on designing, building, and testing a small-scale wave tank capable of simulating realistic coastal wave and current conditions. Developed in collaboration with UNE's Gerard Marine Science Center, the project combined coastal engineering, environmental science, and hands-on experimentation to create a tool for studying shoreline dynamics and evaluating coastal resilience strategies.

The fellowship produced a functioning wave tank system, shoreline models, and experimental testing protocols to assess the effectiveness of living shoreline restoration techniques such as dune grass plantings, berms, and natural barriers. The work also included data collection and analysis methods, community outreach, and educational materials to support research, student learning, and public understanding of coastal resilience challenges facing the Biddeford area.

Kalei Peck is a junior at the Â鶹ֱ²¥ pursuing a degree in Marine Entrepreneurship with a minor in Marine Biology. Originally from Orr’s Island, Maine, she grew up surrounded by the working waterfront, inspiring her passion for sustainable aquaculture and coastal communities. This summer, Kalei was a Business and Marketing intern with Kennebunkport Oyster Company, where she explored innovative ways to strengthen Maine’s aquaculture industry through business development and community engagement. Through the Sustainability Fellowship, she expanded her knowledge of sustainable entrepreneurship while collaborating with others to create lasting environmental and economic impact.

This fellowship focused on helping Kennebunkport Oyster Company evaluate opportunities to diversify beyond its oyster farming and ecotourism operations. Through market research and business analysis, the project examined potential new ventures, including electric seafood distribution, seafood catering, and ergonomic oyster tools, assessing customer demand, industry trends, competition, and operational considerations.

The fellowship also produced customer and stakeholder insights, startup cost assessments, and strategic recommendations for the most promising opportunities. The work culminated in draft business plans and an implementation roadmap designed to support the company's long-term growth while strengthening its role in Maine's sustainable aquaculture and coastal economy.

Mina Regnery graduated from UNE with a bachelor’s in Sustainability and Business. Originally from Nashua, New Hampshire, she is passionate about marketing and communications and is particularly interested in exploring how strategic outreach, marketing analytics, and emerging technologies can help organizations build meaningful relationships, engage diverse audiences, and strengthen community engagement. This summer, Mina expanded her experience in marketing and communications while developing skills in digital strategy, content creation, and mission-driven outreach within the nonprofit sector.

This fellowship focused on exploring how artificial intelligence can enhance science communication, donor engagement, marketing, and data analysis for a nonprofit environmental organization. By applying AI tools to communications and outreach efforts, the project helped expand the Wells Reserve's capacity to connect with visitors, volunteers, donors, and the broader community while supporting its science, education, and conservation mission.

The fellowship contributed to the development of AI-assisted workflows for creating and adapting content across multiple platforms, analyzing audience engagement, and personalizing communications for supporters and stakeholders. The work also helped identify effective and responsible approaches for using emerging technologies in nonprofit communications, providing insights and best practices that can support future outreach, fundraising, and community engagement efforts.

From Bangor, Maine, Jayden Schoppee is a senior in the 3+2 M.S. Athletic Training program and has completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition along with minors in Public Health and Health, Medicine, and Society. As an athlete herself, she strives to help fellow athletes in all areas. including strength training/preventative care, proper nutrition, and rehabilitation. This summer, Jayden worked to develop the SeaMade Kelp Bar into something that gets people excited about eating kelp and all the benefits it has to offer. She enjoyed exploring marine life and how these relationships are so impactful to humans.

Lincoln Smith is a sophomore studying Environmental Science with a minor in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). From North Yarmouth, Maine, he loves to spend time outside, camping, hiking, boating, swimming, and fishing. Lincoln hoped to walk away from his Summer Sustainability Fellowship with a better understanding of technologies that are used to monitor and measure different natural environments. He enjoyed working with professionals in this field and getting a better sense of how they conduct their work.

Nicolette Stamos is a senior at the Â鶹ֱ²¥ majoring in Marine Science and minoring in Geographical Information Systems (GIS). Originally from Stow, Massachusetts, she enjoys sailing, reading, hiking, and musical theatre. This summer, Nicolette collected bathymetric data that can be used to teach the public about rapid coastline changes and inform coastal management decisions. Through her UNE Summer Sustainability Fellowship, she explored her passions and interests in GIS, marine science, and community outreach, which she hopes to focus on in her future career.

This fellowship focused on studying coastal erosion and shoreline change in Saco Bay through the collection and analysis of bathymetric, topographic, and sediment data. By combining field research with coastal mapping and data analysis, the project helped improve understanding of how sand moves throughout the bay and how changing ocean conditions affect shoreline stability.

The fellowship contributed to the creation of new bathymetric maps, comparisons with historical NOAA and UNE datasets, and analyses of sediment transport patterns across Saco Bay. The work provided valuable information to support coastal management and resilience planning while also informing the development of a wave tank model that can be used to evaluate potential shoreline protection and erosion mitigation strategies.

A senior at UNE, Grey Trost is majoring in Marine Science and Environmental Science with a minor in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Originally from Genoa, Illinois, he spends his free time birdwatching, hiking, and playing video games like Subnautica 2. This summer, Grey collected bathymetric and temperature data from priority lakes in Maine to learn more about the thermal refuges that many species rely on and how climate change has impacted the structure of these lakes. This work furthered his passion for studying the impacts of climate change on various species while offering a stepping stone into the world of conservation.

This fellowship focused on updating lake bathymetry and thermal habitat data to support fisheries conservation and management in southern Maine. Working through the Â鶹ֱ²¥, the project surveyed priority lakes — including Bald Mountain Pond, Long Pond, Enchanted Pond, and Tea Pond — using sonar-equipped mapping technology and temperature profiling tools. The goal was to generate modern, high-resolution data to identify critical cold-water habitats for species such as brook trout, Arctic charr, and landlocked salmon, replacing outdated information that had been used for decades.

The fellowship involved collecting and analyzing field data, producing GIS-based bathymetric and thermal maps, and developing datasets to support habitat protection and fisheries management efforts. Project outcomes included publicly accessible mapping data, resources for the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and other conservation partners, and a final report and presentation summarizing findings and recommendations.

Madison Wheeler is a senior at UNE majoring in Environmental Science with a minor in Marine Biology. Originally from Beverly, Massachusetts, she enjoys spending time outdoors and collecting bug- and insect-themed items, which aligns perfectly with her position as the Insect Cultivation Fellow. This summer, Madison worked outdoors while developing skills related to hands-on environmental research through experimentation with aquatic invertebrate habitat design. She hopes to have a future career that supports both natural and human communities and that her time as a sustainability fellow will lead her to a position working directly in nature.

This fellowship focused on developing sustainable, farm-raised insect and aquatic species as alternative feed sources for trout at Shy Beaver Trout LLC, Maine’s last private outdoor trout hatchery. The project evaluated a range of species based on factors such as growth and reproduction rates, habitat needs, labor requirements, yield potential, and suitability for trout diets, with the goal of identifying viable alternatives to commercial feed and supporting the hatchery’s long-term sustainability efforts.

The fellowship included research, habitat design, cultivation trials, and field testing of the most promising species. Outcomes included recommendations for the best candidates for insect cultivation, prototype habitats and husbandry guides, labor and yield estimates, and a final presentation summarizing findings and opportunities for implementing sustainable feed production at the hatchery.