Company donation provides new tech at PI Husson site

5 years ago

BANGOR, Maine — Husson University announced on Thursday, Nov. 29, that it will demonstrate some of the new and enhanced technology available at its northern Maine campus to representatives of MMG Insurance at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 5, in Room 205 of the Christie Complex at Northern Maine Community College.

“The generosity of MMG, with the donation of new video conferencing technology, helps take the distance out of distance learning. Students in Aroostook County can participate in a greater variety of face-to-face Husson University coursework and professional development opportunities without the need for travel. Instructors from the County can also share their unique Aroostook perspective with Husson students at our Westbrook and Bangor campuses,” said Jennifer Flynn, M.Ed., director of Husson University – Northern Maine.

One year ago, the company pledged $50,000 in support of the proposed new Husson College of Business building at the university in Bangor and technology improvements to the distance learning capabilities at the Presque Isle campus. Wednesday’s demonstration will show the use of part of the donation; Husson anticipates the other portion of MMG’s gift will be fully realized in 2020, when construction is slated to begin on Husson’s Bangor campus for the new College of Business building.  

“MMG’s support is helping students in Presque Isle connect to Husson University in Bangor,” said Dr. Robert A. Clark, president of Husson University.

“The enhanced distance learning capabilities made possible by the company’s generosity will provide students in Northern Maine with the opportunity to engage and learn from our faculty – many of whom are some of the nation’s leading experts in their fields,” Clark said. “This technology is part of our University’s ongoing efforts to provide education that enhances the personal and professional success of individuals, who will in turn, contribute to the economic growth of the region.”  

“At MMG we believe that by investing in educational infrastructure, such as distance learning technology, we are opening the door to a wide range of potential positive impacts” said Larry M. Shaw, president and CEO of MMG Insurance.

“From educational opportunities for our own employees right here in Aroostook County, to developing a skilled workforce throughout Maine, we are connecting interest with opportunity.”

Shaw added, “Husson is a proven leader in preparing graduates for career success. We look forward to continuing to work with them in carving out paths between the business community and their institution of higher education.”

The technology the company purchased includes visual displays, camera equipment and microphones.

Husson will present a plaque Dec. 5 to MMG representatives in recognition of their commitment to education.

“Distance education allows students to hear from, and learn from, their peers in locations across Maine. We now offer on-site education at our three campuses in Presque Isle, Bangor and Westbrook, in addition to a number of community college, businesses and online.”