PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Maine is a great place to work and raise a family — that was the message graduates walked away with May 15, during commencement exercises held at the University of Maine at Presque Isle.

The event kicked off with the recognition of several local citizens being recognized for their commitment to their communities and the state.
“Barry (McCrum) ends 11 years of service on the University of Maine System’s Board of Trustees. He’s been a personal assistant to me and wonderful leader for the system,” said UMPI President Don Zillman.
McCrum, a native of Mars Hill, called commencement “bittersweet yet a joyous occasion.”
“The immediate focus today is not on papers and exams but a time of celebration and change,” he said, noting he was flooded with emotions, since the day marked his last as a member of the board.
“It’s been an extremely rewarding commitment that I enjoyed immensely,” McCrum said, crediting the students, including his own daughter, Natasha, for the long hours they put in and the sacrifices made to reach this moment. “I commend you for your perseverance and congratulate your accomplishments.” Natasha McCrum was one of 133 students who were conferred degrees during this year’s ceremony, held in Wieden Gymnasium.
UMS Chancellor Richard Pattenaude was on hand to thank McCrum for serving on the board and congratulate the Class of 2010.
“I commend Barry for his service and you (students) for pursuing your dreams and your commitment to achieving them. Thank you for sharing your lives with us. On behalf of the UMS, I wish you happiness in your future,” said Pattenaude.
Zillman talked of campus accomplishments — students’ and faculty members’ — and what an honor it was to know such talented individuals.
“Faculty and staff have published books and articles and have spoken nationally. We have an innovative campus — this is a collective ‘we.’ University Day saw several students present their work; students and faculty worked together on the exchange with China,” said Zillman, noting several other endeavors that students and faculty joined forces on, achieving goals and recognition along the way.
Zillman acknowledged graduation was a time of great happiness as well as sadness, since it was a time for goodbyes to people who’ve become more like family over the years. This year, in addition to the graduates, the University bids farewell to three longtime educators: Professors Alice Shepard, and William “Bill” and Claire Davidshofer — retiring after a combined century of service to the campus.
Honorary degrees were conferred on three local citizens who’ve committed their lives to making northern Maine a better place to live, work and raise a family: Sen. Susan Collins, of Caribou; and Judge David Griffiths and his wife, Roberta Griffiths, of Presque Isle.
Collins served as this year’s guest speaker. She was later joined on stage by her parents, Pat and Don Collins, of Caribou.
“I’m grateful to be sharing this honor with the Judge and Roberta,” said Collins. “Following in my mother’s  footsteps has put me in a good place.”
Collins said for 107 years, the University has been a rigorous place for education.
“It’s time to turn to the true stars, the Class of 2010. Congratulations, you did it. You came to North of Ordinary and you’ve succeeded,” she said, telling the class they’ll take some valuable lessons with them when they leave.
“There are values in this special place. In returning here, I remember the values of picking potatoes. I learned the value of community, sportsmanship, hard work and fair play. In attending UMPI, those values will forever be a part of you and will help you succeed in the next chapter of your life,” said Collins.
She noted how the University has served as a leader in green energy and how the installation of the wind turbine at UMPI combined practicality with vision.
“It helped produce green jobs and will soon be joined by solar panels and (the campus will offer) green courses,” she said.
Collins said what students learned at UMPI will stay with them. And long after what was taught becomes obsolete,  the lessons will allow them to think critically and continue to learn. She noted that none of this would be possible, without the dedication and commitment of faculty, staff, family and friends.
“Family and friends will be there for the challenges. They’re the ones who helped you through (college),” said Collins, as she encouraged students to stay in the state. “My advice to you is stay in Maine. Maine needs you. Your diplomas represent a debt you owe to those who made it possible. I encourage you to put those to use here. Maine needs what you have to offer to help improve the quality of life.”
“Serve your community. Improve the lives of others. Volunteer, get involved and care,” said Collins.
Zillman said Collins’ advice to ‘stay in Maine’ would stay with him long after the ceremony was over. He credited another honoree for teaching him about the community and campus when he first arrived in the community.
“Roberta guided me through troubled times on campus and introduced me to the community,” said Zillman, as he commended her for over four decades committed to bettering the community and serving as an advocate for higher education. “She’s made Presque Isle a beautiful place to live and visit.”
“Upon Dave’s graduation from law school, we knew where to go — back to the County. I’m deeply honored to be recognized by the University,” said Roberta Griffiths.
Zillman then introduced Judge Griffiths, presenting him with his honorary degree.
“I’m honored to be recognized in my hometown after a lifetime of doing what comes naturally,” said David Griffiths.
Zillman then called Collins forward and presented an honorary degree to her as well.
Zillman commended Collins “for decades of service to the state and federal government.”
“She’s served the public for over 30 years and was the 15th woman in history to join the U.S. Senate. She’s shown dedication to improving lives across the country and a strong desire to improve the lives of the citizens of Maine,” said Zillman.
Festivities concluded with the presentation of degrees to this year’s graduates. Soloist for the ceremony was Annie Charles, of Limestone. A reception for the Class of 2010 followed at the Campus Center.