Editor:
I write as a former homeowner in Biddeford and a faculty member for over 30 years at the University of New England.
I have been astonished at recent allegations and questions regarding UNE and what we actually offer the community and taxpayers of Biddeford.
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I think it is oversimplistic to reduce the conversation to the taxes UNE does or does not pay or the revenue we generate locally– those numbers feel like they are not speaking to what we actually offer.
The university’s product is our graduates, and I respectfully ask the residents of Biddeford to consider how many of the UNE alumni contribute to the overall well-being of our community.
When residents of Biddeford, York County, and even other regions of the state seek out dental, medical or pharmaceutical help, how many of the people you interact with are UNE graduates? How many of the nurses at our local hospitals or physical and occupational therapists at your rehabilitation center are UNE graduates? What about the teachers and education technicians in your child’s school?
“UNE graduates are the most
important story about our impact
on Biddeford.”
Additionally, our social work and psychology graduates are working in mental health agencies, specialized therapeutic schools, and social service organizations all across the state.
I believe these UNE graduates are the most important story about our impact on Biddeford.
Many of our alumni live here, pay taxes and all of them contribute immensely to community well-being. We also have current students serving at internships, practicum, and as student teachers out in our community largely working in unpaid positions.
Our students also civically volunteer in various capacities including being the entity that for the past several years has put up the holiday lights in the downtown area for free. I implore the citizens of Biddeford to imagine what education, social and mental health services, physical health care, and rehabilitation would look like in southern Maine without UNE graduates and interns and consider this the next time you hear someone question what UNE brings to this community.
I know what we bring, and I am proud to be a part of the UNE community and to have a part in our lasting legacy— our alumni.
Linda Morrison | Kennebunk
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