Networks, connections and relationships are critical to professional success.
The above maxim holds true in any industry, but it is especially important in the public policy, nonprofit and government sectors in a small state like Maine. Maine is connected. Maine is relational. Maine is special.
For decades the Muskie School of Public Service has prepared professionals for careers in the public and nonprofit sector. Muskies have helped build and preserve Maine, are making tremendous differences across fields, and hold important leadership and policy positions statewide.
But we aren’t connected. Most Muskies complete graduation and quickly lose track of their peers. Our successes become individual successes, disconnected from the Muskie Legacy. It’s time to change that. It’s time to harness the expertise and energy that passes through the Muskie School year after year, and use it to both our advantage and the advantage of our state.
This is not a fundraising initiative. This is an effort to maximize the resources and connections that come out of Muskie, and to support our shared success. Muskie graduates are invested in the Muskie mission — to apply innovative knowledge to critical issues. Together we can improve our impact on Maine.
Networks. Connections. Relationships. Muskie. Us.
Mary-Elizabeth Simms, Chair, Muskie Alumni Association
A native of Southern Maine, Mary-Elizabeth graduated from USM with a Bachelor’s in Business Management in 2015 and went on to earn her Master’s in Public Health as well as a Master’s in Business Administration from USM in 2017. She is passionate about building strong community networks and is the co-founder of the Muskie Alumni Association. She currently works in product management at Martin’s Point Health Care and resides in Portland.