Deb Gallant’74 Takes Time to Make Connections
Deb Gallant is another example of a committed alumna and volunteer. She has not only devoted her time and talents to the University, but also her financial resources to support USM’s Annual Fund and the Alumni Skywalk.
Founder and President of d. gallant Management Associates (a Human Resources Management Consulting firm located in Portland), Deb graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in sociology in 1974 after transferring to USM two years earlier. Since receiving her degree, she has pursued graduate work in business and psychology. Having grown up in Gorham, she was definitely coming home when she transferred to USM. She describes her experiences as very positive and while she didn’t live in one of the dorms, was very active on campus and never felt like an outsider. Following graduation, Deb worked for many years in Portland’s banking community as a Senior Vice President HR & Corporate Training at Key Bank. She recalls always being impressed with USM’s creativity when working with employers to address the educational needs of their employees. She also saw firsthand how academics were integrated into the community through various programs such as internships.
Deb has been very active in the fundraising campaign for the Annual Fund, having chaired the event on two separate occasions. During those campaigns she talked with many people –both alumni and friends of USM, and was very pleased by the affirmative responses she received. “People had witnessed the positive changes at USM and were very willing to contribute to the institution.”
The campuses have certainly changed since Deb was a student, and she is delighted with the new facilities and growth of the University. She plans to continue her connections with USM and its transformation and is very excited about its future.
|
