NMCC Foundation annual dinner celebrates strong roots and bright futures in Aroostook County

 

The Northern Maine Community College Foundation brought together community leaders, donors, alumni, faculty, staff, students and business partners for its annual dinner. Nicole Cote, executive director of the NMCC Foundation, introduced the evening’s theme, “Strong Roots, Bright Futures — Creating Success in Aroostook County,” which highlighted the role of education, philanthropy and community partnerships in expanding opportunities for students, strengthening the regional workforce and building a brighter future for northern Maine.

The annual celebration recognized the individuals, businesses and organizations whose generosity supports student scholarships, workforce development, academic programs and the continued growth of Northern Maine Community College. Guests included state Sen. Sue Bernard, R-Aroostook; Senate Republican Minority Leader Trey Stewart, R-Aroostook; and retired NMCC President Timothy D. Crowley.

Attendees also met faculty and students from NMCC’s anatomy and physiology, auto collision repair, auto technology, early childhood education, electrical construction and maintenance, medical assisting, and nursing and allied health programs. Demonstrations showcased work taking place at NMCC and featured equipment purchased through the Investing in Innovation fund and other donations.

The evening’s theme reflected values that have long defined Aroostook County: hard work, resilience, generosity, and a commitment to helping neighbors and investing in the region’s future. Through accessible education and hands-on workforce training, NMCC prepares students for careers while helping meet employers’ needs and strengthen the local economy.

A central message of the evening was that every student who gains a skill, earns a credential or completes a degree represents more than an individual achievement. Each also represents a new opportunity for a family, a stronger workforce for employers and a brighter future for Aroostook County.

Outgoing Foundation Board Chair Gina LeBlanc-Eggert reflected on the Foundation’s accomplishments and expressed gratitude to the donors, volunteers, employees, and community partners who make its mission possible.

“Every scholarship awarded creates opportunity. Every grant received expands possibilities. Every piece of equipment donated strengthens workforce training. Every dollar contributed reflects a belief in our students and confidence in their future,” LeBlanc-Eggert shared in her remarks.

A highlight of the evening was the recognition of individuals and organizations whose leadership, dedication, and generosity have made a lasting difference for NMCC and its students.

LeBlanc-Eggert received the 2026 Eagle Award, the Foundation’s prestigious recognition honoring an individual who consistently goes above and beyond in support of the college.

During her three consecutive three-year terms on the Foundation Board, including her service as chair, LeBlanc-Eggert championed student success, attended nursing pinning ceremonies and student events, supported the annual golf tournament, and advocated for leadership and engagement at the community college system level. She also served as commencement speaker for the Class of 2026 at two graduation ceremonies.

Although her term as board chair has concluded, LeBlanc-Eggert will continue supporting the Foundation in an emeritus capacity.

The Foundation named the Powers Family Scholarship, in honor of Thomas W. Powers, Jr., its Benefactor of the Year. The Powers Family Scholarship, originally established in memory of Christopher P. Powers and subsequently renamed in honor of family members, assists Aroostook County students with demonstrated financial need. Preference is given to students studying Diesel Hydraulics, Building Construction Technology, and Plumbing and Heating.

The recognition celebrated Tom Powers’ longstanding commitment to family, community, and helping others, as well as the enduring impact of his generosity throughout the region.

The foundation also highlighted three newly endowed scholarships that reflect the power of personal legacy and a shared commitment to student opportunity.

The Dr. Brennan Scholarship honors a physician whose leadership and commitment to clinical excellence helped advance emergency medical services in rural Maine. Through advanced life support, regional medical oversight, standardized protocols and EMS education, Dr. Brennan’s work strengthened emergency care in Aroostook County and helped prepare generations of emergency medical providers.

The Elena Jasmir Lozada Memorial Scholarship was established in memory of Lozada, whose dreams included attending college, becoming a dermatologist and creating a safe, supportive home for young women facing mental health challenges and addiction. The scholarship supports students who have overcome significant life challenges, reflecting her compassionate spirit and belief in hope, resilience and new beginnings. Her mother, Carrie Cronkite, attended the dinner to honor her daughter.

The Terry Kilcollins Memorial Scholarship honors a Presque Isle native remembered for her creativity, compassion, generosity and community service. The scholarship supports students studying liberal arts at NMCC and carries forward the belief in education and lifelong learning that Kilcollins shared with her husband, Wayne.

The Foundation recognized departing board members Carter Vaillancourt, Aaron Carlson, Joshua Tweedie, and Joy Baressi Saucier for their dedicated service and contributions to the college.

Special acknowledgment was given to longtime Foundation leader Richard (Dick) Engels, whose 22 years of service included legal guidance, board leadership, and committee contributions. Engels has also received the Eagle Award and Benefactor of the Year honors in recognition of his longstanding commitment to the Foundation.

Mike Williams was recognized for his service as Foundation treasurer from 2013 to 2026. LeBlanc-Eggert was also thanked for her leadership as board chair and her continued dedication to the college and its students.

Student voices remained central to the celebration, with remarks from newly elected NMCC Student Senate President Porscha Strasser and NMCC alumnus Matthew McCormack. Their participation underscored the people, experiences, and future possibilities at the heart of the Foundation’s mission.

Through scholarships, endowed funds, equipment investments, workforce development initiatives, and community partnerships, the NMCC Foundation continues to help remove barriers to education and prepare students for rewarding careers close to home.