UMF adds new leaders, expands focus for grad and continuing ed levels

Courtesy / University of Maine at Farmington The University of Maine at Farmington Monday announced two new leadership positions at its Division of Graduate and Continuing Education. Erin L. Connor (left) was named associate dean, while Kenneth Lewis was named director of educational outreach.

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By Staff

The University of Maine at Farmington on Monday announced two new leadership appointments along with plans to expand graduate programming.

UMF said in a news release that its Division of Graduate and Continuing Education has named Erin L. Connor as associate dean and Kenneth Lewis as director of educational outreach.

In her new role, Connor will develop and implement strategies to support the expansion of graduate programs and help develop collaborations with local schools, businesses and other UMaine System campuses. She will also oversee day-to-day operations and support and respond to graduate student needs.

Connor previously served as director of graduate education programs at the University of New England.

As director of educational outreach, Lewis will work with school districts to ensure UMF graduate and professional programs meet the needs of the field. He will also manage enrollment for graduate and continuing education, coordinate the Maine Mathematics Coaching Program and explore opportunities for new certificate programs.

He comes to UMF from Thomas College, where he managed departmental operations for undergraduate admissions.

Part of the University of Maine System, UMF has been led by President Edward Serna since July 1. He succeeded Kathryn A. Foster, who left her post to become president of the College of New Jersey in 2018.

The school also announced plans to broaden graduate programming beyond teacher education and to attract adult leaders with little or no college experience.

“Graduate and continuing education is essential to in-service educators in order to help them advance in their knowledge and meet the challenges of educating the next generation,” said Katherine Yardley, UMF associate provost and dean of the College of Education, Health and Rehabilitation, in the release.

She added that UMF will benefit greatly from the new leadership "as we look to expand graduate programming that aligns with the public’s interest and areas of our faculty’s expertise."