DES Student Group

DES Students

DES currently has approximately 120 students in its BA and BS programs. The department attracts a wide variety of students including traditional students and non-traditional students seeking a mid-career change or who have taken time off before returning to school. All our students bring valuable life experiences to the department and classroom creating a diverse and engaging atmosphere.

DES Student Group

Mission:

To promote environmental awareness, activism, and enjoyment through participation in community service, education, and outdoor activities.

History:

The DES Student Group was founded in 1995 by a small group of the program's first students. The group was created to foster involvement in the USM and Maine communities and the group's mission and focus have changed little since its founding. 

Meetings:

Late each spring, new Student Group officers are elected. The officers include the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and a representative to the Board of Student Organizations (BSO).

Meeting times vary each year depending on the Group's activities and the officers' schedules and planning needs. Generally, meetings are once a month and last for an hour where upcoming activities, fundraising, and ideas for new activities are discussed.

DES Student Group Officers 2012-2013

President: Hannah Shute

Vice President: Melissa Smith

Secretary: Jacob Ferreira

Treasurer: Kaitlyn Bennett

DES Student Group News and Announcements Page

Events:

The group organizes and takes part in various events throughout the year, depending on interests, commitments, and tradition. Most events include either community outreach or an outdoor activity, such as hiking, sledding, or snowshoeing. Traditionally, the group hosts a Welcome Back Picnic in September, a holiday potluck in December, and is involved in an Earth Day event in April.

Each year the group volunteers for the New England Regional Science Bowl which is hosted at USM and organized by Professor Rob Sanford and Professor Bob Kuech (Teacher Education). In addition, the group makes efforts to work with Portland Trails, the local Soil and Water conservation Districts, and volunteers for local programs that promote environmental awareness, conservation, and education.  Recently, the group has been visiting local high schools in southern Maine to educate and recruit new students into the College of Science, Technology, and Health (CSTH) and the Department of Environmental Science (DES).

For the latest events and information there is a student group board directly in front of the DES office, Bailey 106.

If you are interested in the DES Student Group or want to learn more, contact the DES department or the Student Group President, Hannah Shute