Thursday’s ceremony recognized outstanding city employees and the longstanding civic contributions of the St. Louis Alumni Association
SUBMITTED STORY | Danica Lamontagne, City of Biddeford
The city of Biddeford recognized outstanding contributions from staff and community members at its annual Employee and Volunteer of the Year Appreciation Banquet held at the J. Richard Martin Community Center on Thursday.
Alisha Keezer, coordinator of the Biddeford Department’s Cub Care program, was named as the city’s employee of the year.
During her 17 years with Biddeford Recreation, Keezer has helped shape Cub Care into one of the community’s most trusted supports for families, creating safe and positive environments for children and building strong connections with parents and staff.
“Over the years, hundreds of families have entrusted Alisha with the care of their children, a responsibility she takes seriously and approaches with compassion, dedication, and professionalism,” said Lisa Thompson, the city’s recreation director. “Her leadership, experience, and passion for recreation have made her an invaluable member of the Recreation Department.”
“Over the years, hundreds
— Lisa Thompson
of families have entrusted
Alisha with the care
of their children”
Keezer also oversees summer camp operations, beach staffing and safety at Biddeford Pool, Fortunes Rocks, and Rotary Park, and manages the department’s social media and marketing efforts.
City officials say that Keezer frequently goes above and beyond typical work hours to ensure programs run smoothly and residents receive consistent, high‑quality service.
Volunteers of the Year
The members of the St. Louis Alumni Association have been named the city of Biddeford’s 2026 Volunteers of the Year. Dedicated to youth since 1940, the association has enriched the community through scholarships, youth sports, recreation initiatives, charitable support, and decades of volunteer service.
“The St. Louis Alumni Association represents the very best of Biddeford’s tradition of community service,” said Mayor Liam LaFountain. “When St. Louis High School closed in 1970, the school’s greatest asset remained: its alumni. For more than eight decades, they have carried its spirit forward through scholarships, youth sports, recreation, charitable giving, and volunteer service.
“The scale of that commitment is extraordinary: more than $1.3 million contributed by 1990, with at least another $432,000 documented since 2015. Behind those numbers are generations of alumni who organized fundraisers, operated the St. Louis skating rink, and served Biddeford as elected officials, school committee members, municipal volunteers, and community leaders.
“It is a privilege to recognize the St. Louis Alumni Association as our Volunteer of the Year and to thank its members for all they have given to Biddeford,” LaFountain added. “Their impact has outlasted their school, will outlast the association itself, and will continue to be felt throughout Biddeford for generations to come.”
Management Team Award
Gerry Matherne, the city’s finance director, was recognized with this year’s Management Team Award
LaFountain said Matherne stepped into the finance director role at a time when the city was facing significant challenges. Yet, through it all, she has remained steady, professional and focused on finding solutions.
As a Department Director, Matherne earned praise for “going above and beyond for her team.” Coworkers said Matherne provides guidance, support and encouragement — and never hesitates to roll up her sleeves and step in wherever she is needed.
Her versatility and willingness to take on whatever challenge comes her way have been invaluable to the organization,” LaFountain said.
Matherne was described as someone who understands that finance is ultimately about people. Whether she is working with a department, a coworker, or a member of the public, she consistently provides excellent customer service, treating people with respect, patience and care.
Technical & Service Team Member Award
Jake Hammer, supervisor of the city’s General Assistance Department, was awarded with this year’s Technical and Service Team Member Award
“Jake’s work often brings him into contact with individuals facing difficult circumstances and challenges of all kinds, and he approaches every situation with kindness, compassion and genuine respect,” LaFountain said. “He has built meaningful connections with the people he serves, who see him not only as a city employee, but as someone they can trust and turn to for help. “
Coworkers say Hammer is often called upon to step in and assist when situations become difficult, and he is always willing to lend a hand and support his colleagues — consistently demonstrating genuine concern for the wellbeing of those around him, while also bringing a much-appreciated sense of humor and fun energy to the workplace.
Customer Service Team Member
Kathy Boyden, the Biddeford Fire Department’s office manager, was given this year’s Customer Service Team Member Award.
Boyden was recognized for her exceptional service of more than 30 years.
“Kathy is central to ensuring the Fire Department operates smoothly day‑to‑day and is widely known for her deep care for both department members and their families,” co-workers said. “She consistently goes above and beyond to support staff needs, navigate daily administrative demands, and provide warm, reliable assistance to residents. Kathy’s dedication, compassion, and commitment to service embody the highest standards of customer care.”
STAY CONNECTED | SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE TODAY
.
BIDDEFORD GAZETTE
“Keeping You Connected to Biddeford”
Editorial Standards & Policies
© 2026 Biddeford Gazette, Inc. All Rights Reserved
BIDDEFORD GAZETTE 