40 Under 40: Justin Chenette is a nonprofit staffer committed to community service
PHOTO / Tim Greenway
Justin Chenette is senior director of public relations and advancement at Sweetser.
More Information
Significant professional accomplishment: I helped establish a weekly live TV segment with a news station to educate and reduce the stigma around seeking mental health care, with over 50 segments produced.
Politically, I was elected state representative at 21, state senator at 25 and county commissioner at 31. Each time, I made history by becoming the youngest or the only openly LGBTQ+ individual elected. I also passed comprehensive ethics and campaign finance reform legislation.
Current state of mind: Hopeful.
Passion project: I founded a nonprofit scholarship foundation to empower Maine’s next generation of leaders and amplify a commitment to community service. Since 2015, nearly 30 students have received a combined total of over $12,000 in scholarship support.
‘Lightbulb’ moment: In high school, I hosted a statewide public affairs TV show called “Youth in Politics” and a local public access TV show called “The Issue” interview leaders and ask meet-the-press-style questions. Before my 17th birthday, Gov. John Baldacci appointed me the first Maine State Board of Education student board member. This combination led me to pursue communications as a profession and serve in public office.
Audacious goal: Donate copies of my children’s book, “The Great Whoopie Pie Debate: A Kids’ Guide to the Maine Legislature,” to every library and elementary classroom throughout the state to strengthen civics education.
Favorite quote: “Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds. The mediocre mind is incapable of understanding the man who refuses to bow blindly to conventional prejudices and chooses instead to express his opinions courageously and honestly.” — Albert Einstein.
Influential book: “Leadership on the Line,” by Ronald Heifetz and Marty Linsky, one of my professors during my national fellowship at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government.
Favorite movie: Anything “Lord of the Rings.” It’s a true cinematic classic. Nothing like Sir Ian McKellen’s Gandalf. I quote the movies all the time.
Best way to recharge: There is something so simple yet special about coming home to a loving husband and two furballs. I’m a proud cat dad. Precious and Mr. Biscuits live up to their names. They are the most spoiled feline companions and ground us to live more in the moment with every lap purr and laser chase.
At age 60: I hope to be giving back in a way that’s impactful, purpose-driven, and meaningfully improves the lives of others. Service is in my blood. It’s a part of who I am.
Most Recent
Most Recent
0 Comments