FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Oliver Griswold, Senior Director of Strategic Communications
University of Southern Maine Foundation
oliver.griswold@maine.edu | 917.617.2103
PORTLAND, Maine — June 2, 2025 — The University of Southern Maine Foundation announced the completion of a $25,000 gift to the Access to Education Scholarship from Broadreach Public Relations, the Maine-based public relations firm founded and led by USM alumna Linda Varrell ‘00. Broadreach’s gift exemplifies Varrell’s enduring commitment to her alma mater and her company’s support for equitable access to education.
“Education can provide a strong foundation for growth and advancement – not just for individuals, but for entire communities,” said Varrell. “Supporting the Access Scholarship is just one of the ways Broadreach can help ensure that more Mainers have the opportunity to achieve their goals, grow their potential, and give back in ways that matter. This is such an essential vehicle for talented students that as soon as this gift was complete, we immediately renewed our support for one additional year.”
The Access to Education Scholarship provides critical financial support to undergraduate students who face financial, social, or systemic barriers to attending college. Established with a focus on equity and opportunity, the scholarship helps ensure that every student—regardless of background—can pursue a University of Southern Maine education with the resources and support they need to succeed.
“We are deeply grateful to Linda and her team at Broadreach for their leadership and longstanding commitment to USM and our students,” said USM President Jacqueline Edmondson. “This recent gift to the Access to Education Scholarship will have a profound and lasting impact on our university community, opening doors for students who might otherwise be left behind.”
Varrell’s relationship with the University of Southern Maine spans many years and leadership roles. A Class of 2000 graduate in Leadership and Organizational Studies, she is now a current member of the USM Foundation Board of Directors. Past leadership roles include the former chair of the University’s Corporate Partners Executive Committee, and a former member of the USM Board of Visitors. Her engagement reflects a deep belief in the power of public higher education to transform lives and strengthen Maine’s communities and workforce.
Founded in 2007, Broadreach Public Relations is a women-owned, award-winning strategic communications firm located on Portland’s historic waterfront. Broadreach has partnered with over 350 businesses, government agencies, and nonprofits to deliver creative strategies, effective storytelling, and measurable results. The firm takes pride in helping clients build their credibility, raise their profile, and expand their reach whether locally, regionally, or nationally. Representing herself and the firm, Linda brings a value-driven approach and strong commitment to community impact to her professional and philanthropic endeavors.
This latest gift continues a legacy of leadership and generosity that has already opened countless doors for students at USM—and promises to open many more.
Linda Varrell, CEO, Broadreach Public Relations (photo credit: Broadreach Public Relations)
