AUGUSTA - The 49th University of Maine at Augusta commencement was held on Saturday, May 14th, celebrating 400 students receiving their respective degrees. In the graduating class, there were 9 student-athletes that received their degrees at the Civic Center before their friends, family, and faculty.
The student-athletes that graduated had dedicated themselves to not only their respective sport but to the classroom and to enriching the UMA community.
The UMA athletic department also wants to congratulate former student-athletes that have contributed to UMA Athletics in previous years that completed their degrees and graduated on Saturday as well.
Pictured from left to right: Kim Carter, Gretchen Clark, Patrick Caskin, Richard Cormier, Caleb McGuire, Jamie Plummer, Roger Machbach, Nick Bragg, Rob Foss (Krystin Kemp not pictured)
Cross Country
Patrick Caskin – Bachelor's Degree in Biology
“When I came to UMA, I had no idea how much I would grow from the experiences this university had to offer. I think it all started when I went on my first-ever service trip to New Orleans, forcing myself to interact with strangers I had never met before. The next best decision I made was joining Student Government right after the trip, opening doors to many and various opportunities. During my time at UMA I've attended several national conferences, led a successful food drive, created a small food pantry for all who are food-insecure, cared for malnourished children in Haiti, and have created life-long connections to people I truly care about. I have evolved into the kind of person I am proud to be today, and I would not have been able to do so without UMA.”
Women’s Basketball
Jamie Plummer – Bachelor's Degree in Biology
"UMA has unexpectedly given me the best four years of my life. This incredible place is highly underrated. Academically and athletically the support and opportunities I've experienced are times I'll remember for the rest of my life. Leaving is going to be very bittersweet, but being a Moose will forever be one of my favorite things to be."
Future Plans: Jamie Plummer will be attending the University of North Florida to pursue her Doctorate in Physical Therapy.
Men’s Basketball
Nick Bragg – Bachelor of Applied Science
"Pursuing my education at UMA has been one of my greatest decisions. The environment was very friendly and the staff were genuinely concerned about the students' education. UMA gave me the opportunity to continue athletics which resulted in many new friendships and experiences with amazing people. UMA has given me the knowledge I need to succeed in my professional career as well as memories that will last me a lifetime!"
Future Plans: Nick will continue his work at Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor gaining experience in technical support as he continues to gain further certifications in the IT field.
Cross Country
Richard Cormier – Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems
"My time at the University of Maine at Augusta has been an amazing learning experience that I will always remember. Running for the cross-country team gave me many unforgettable experiences, taught me how to be a better student and athlete, and helped build new friendships. In addition to teaching great classes, the professors at UMA went above and beyond to create a plan that worked for me. I’ll always be thankful for the unique opportunities that UMA was able to provide."
Future Plans: Richard will continue is work as a Computer and Network Technician for the Winthrop Public School Systems.
Bowling
Roger Machbach – Bachelor of Applied Science
Future Plans: Roger said he hopes to pursue a career in public service and hinted at a possible future run for the Augusta City Council. He is also continuing to work on his non-profit organization, helpforothers.org, whose mission is to help people find alternate resources of which they may not have considered.
Gretchen Clark – Bachelor of Science in Information and Library Science
Other graduates that have contributed to UMA Athletics:
Krystin Kemp – Associates in Liberal Studies
Kim Carter – Bachelor of Art in English
Men’s Basketball
Caleb McGuire – Bachelor of Art in Liberal Studies
Rob Foss - Bachelor's in Business Administration