DES Students

DES Students

DES currently has approximately 100 majors. DES 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.

                                                        2008 Graduating Seniors

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 it's founding.

Officers and 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 officer's schedules planning needs. Generally, meetings are once a month and last for an hour where upcoming activities, fundraising, and ideas for new activities are discussed.

The present officers of the Group (2007-2008) are:

• President: Chris Dunn
• Vice President: Mike Rautenberg
• Secretary: Erik Walling
• BSO Representative & Treasurer: Jen Joy

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 volunteer 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 ASET and the Department of Environmental Science.

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, Chris Dunn at christopher.dunn@maine.edu.