University of Maine at Presque Isle Holds 108th Commencement

One hundred and seventy-six students graduated from the University of Maine at Presque Isle on Saturday, May 13, during the 2017 Commencement Exercises—the University’s 108th Commencement ceremony.

UMPI Interim President and Provost Raymond Rice conferred degrees for the 2016-2017 academic year upon 126 students who participated in the ceremony held in Wieden Gymnasium.

John L. Estrada, a national leader who has served the U.S. in military and diplomatic posts, including as former U.S. Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, addressed the graduates as this year’s commencement speaker. During the graduation event, Laurence A. Park—a well-known farmer and conservationist who is part of a long legacy of Park family members who have been integral in the life of the campus—was presented with an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters Degree.

This year’s Commencement was live streamed on the University’s website so family and friends who couldn’t attend would have the opportunity to see the Class of 2017 graduate. Viewers from around the world were expected to tune in for the ceremony.

A tradition at this year’s event was the pinning of all marching graduates with a special symbol of campus. Each graduate was given a lapel pin depicting a snowy owl with its wings outstretched in flight.

A reception for graduates, family and friends was held in the Campus Center immediately following the ceremony.

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