News Releases

USM Board of Visitors to present "A Southern Maine Imperative II," an update of its landmark report from 2000

March 18, 2008

New report makes eight recommendations and ties the health of the University of Southern Maine to the health of the region and state.

WHO: Bob Blackwood, chair of the University of Southern Maine Board of Visitors, an advisory group of business and community leaders, will present
          
WHAT: "A Southern Maine Imperative II" to members of the USM community, including students, faculty, staff, alumni, Board of Visitors and others on

WHEN: Thursday, March 20, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

WHERE: University Events Room, seventh floor, Glickman Family Library, Portland
         
WHY: Like the original Southern Maine Imperative in 2000, this new, independently funded report, makes the case that USM is central to the economic and social health of southern Maine and the entire state. The report describes USM as "the fuel in the engine of economic and social growth."

Just as the original "SMI" was the catalyst for increased community support and new programs to meet the needs of the region, "SMI II" is expected to serve as a blueprint for the future of USM in an environment that has changed significantly over the past seven + years.

With a financial plan now in place to address USM's operating deficits and a new president coming on board this summer, "A Southern Maine Imperative II" is a timely and important report for the university community and everyone in business and government who understands the role of higher education in Maine's future.

>more news releases