NMCC Foundation Honors Community Leaders, Students at Annual Dinner and Awards Celebration

The Northern Maine Community College Foundation hosted its Annual Dinner and Awards Celebration on Thursday, November 13, bringing together community partners, donors, faculty, staff, students and foundation board members to recognize leadership, service and student achievement. 

Foundation Executive Director Nicole Cote, who also serves as NMCC’s dean of economic and workforce development, opened the evening with welcoming remarks. Foundation Chair Gina LeBlanc‑Eggert followed with a year‑in‑review address, highlighting expanded workforce partnerships, increased donor engagement and enhanced student support. 

“Because of you—everyone here tonight—with your presence now, you are showing that this matters,” LeBlanc-Eggert said. “Students want to be part of this college because they know it will take them where they want to go.” 

NMCC President Douglas Binsfeld then offered remarks on the college’s mission and the growing impact of scholarships, endowments and annual giving. 

Following a brief intermission, NMCC students Jacquese Barrett, Sabrina Charni and Joshua Scheff shared personal reflections about their educational journeys and the critical role of foundation support in their success. Barrett and Scheff are students in the Network Administration and Cybersecurity program; Charni is a first-year nursing student. 

“Tonight is for our donors—the foundation and supporters who make NMCC possible,” Barrett said. “You don’t just fund scholarships; you keep programs running, labs open, and doors wide for students who are trying to juggle life and school. Your gifts turn into very practical things: a paid textbook, a tank of gas, an extra hour to study instead of an extra shift. We notice, and we’re grateful.” 

“Scholarships mean more than financial aid—they represent belief,” Scheff said. “Every dollar given doesn’t just buy books or tools; it buys time. Time to learn, to grow, and to become someone who can give back.” 

Charni shared, “The foundation doesn’t just give out money. It gives us chances, options and hope.  As an international student, I couldn’t access federal aid. But thanks to the foundation, I received housing support and a campus job that made staying here possible. That support changed everything for me.” 

The foundation recognized outgoing board members for their years of dedicated service, including Shawn Anderson, who joined in 2019 and recently relocated to southern Maine, Connie Sandstrom, a board member since 2003 and former chair and nominating committee member, and Vicki Smith, who joined in 2004 and also served as chair and on the nominating committee. 

Additionally, Aimee Wilkins, foundation accountant and assistant since 2008, was honored for her long‑standing service and support. She was recognized for her financial stewardship, organizational knowledge, and mentorship. 

“Aimee has been the constant of the foundation,” Cote said. “Her knowledge and dedication have shaped the strength and success of this organization.” 

The final award of the night was presented to Angela R. Buck, NMCC vice president and dean of academic and student affairs.  Buck was recognized with the 2025 Eagle Award for her leadership and service to NMCC.  She served as NMCC’s interim president during the 2024‑25 academic year, leading the college through key initiatives and challenges. Foundation leaders praised her commitment to innovation, student success, and institutional growth. 

“Angela exemplifies strength, fearlessness and the ability to rise above challenges,” Cote said.  “Her leadership this past year has been extraordinary, and we are proud to honor her with this year’s Eagle Award.” 

The event also featured displays from NMCC’s academic programs, including Automotive Collision Repair, Building Construction Technology, Diesel Hydraulics Technology, Early Childhood Education, Electrical Construction and Maintenance, Plumbing and Heating and Physics. Faculty and student volunteers highlighted hands‑on learning and the college’s commitment to preparing students for high‑demand careers. 

For more information about the NMCC Foundation, visit www.nmcc.edu/supportnmcc.