Maine Law ranks 88th in US News as student success initiatives thrive

In a vibrant gathering at the University of Maine System Board of Trustees meeting on May 19, 2025, excitement filled the air as leaders celebrated significant achievements and outlined ambitious plans for the future. The meeting, marked by a sense of pride and optimism, showcased the progress of various campuses within the system.

President Softly opened the session with thrilling news: Maine Law has officially entered the top 100 law schools in the nation, ranking at number 88 according to U.S. News and World Report. This milestone, attributed to a renewed focus on student success, reflects the hard work and dedication of faculty and staff. Maine Law also ranked 14th in the nation for public service work, highlighting its commitment to meaningful legal education.

As the meeting progressed, President Rice shared a remarkable statistic: the university graduated 1,278 students this year, doubling the number from previous years. This surge in graduates underscores the university's growing impact on the community and its commitment to education.

The conversation then shifted to athletics, with President McDonald proudly announcing that both the men's and women's track and field teams won their respective Atlantic Conference championships. Despite the absence of a dedicated track, the teams' achievements were celebrated as a testament to their hard work and resilience.

In a nod to innovation, President Cushman highlighted the University of Maine at Augusta's impressive enrollment growth, with summer credit hours up by 8.6% and fall registrations soaring by 45%. This growth is complemented by a new $110,000 grant aimed at enhancing cybersecurity education, positioning the university at the forefront of applied security research.

Meanwhile, President Nadine from the University of Maine at Fort Kent celebrated the successful launch of its first graduate program, a Master of Science in Nursing, marking a significant milestone for the campus. The commencement ceremony featured Maine's poet laureate, Julia Bausma, who delivered a heartfelt poem for the graduating class.

As the meeting drew to a close, President Edmonson from the University of Southern Maine shared the debut of the university's first alma mater, a moment that resonated deeply with attendees. The new song, composed by faculty, was performed by a graduating senior, adding a personal touch to the graduation festivities.

The meeting encapsulated a period of growth and transformation across the University of Maine System, with leaders expressing gratitude for the support of the board and the community. As they look ahead, the focus remains on fostering student success, expanding educational opportunities, and enhancing the overall impact of the university system in Maine.