OneVoice Maine Winter 2023

T H E O F F I C I A L M A G A Z I N E O F T H E M A I N E S TAT E C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

Dana F. Connors Dedicated to making Maine the best place to live, work, and start and grow a business

Style. Grace.

Indefatigable.

On behalf of our 18,000 Maine employers and their employees, thank you, Dana Connors.

Making workers’ comp work better since 1993

memic.com

WHEN IT COMES TO MOVING MAINE’S ECONOMY FORWARD, DANA ALWAYS CAME SHOVEL-READY.

W

henever Maine needed smart answers, time and time again, people leaned on Dana. He has long been a champion for the state’s economy and the lives and livelihood of Maine people. And an ardent advocate of the Maine Turnpike’s evolution as well. Maine could not ask for a better friend. We wish him the very best wherever the road may take him.

1947-2022

WELCOME

A Message from Chamber Leadership T R U S T E D L E A D E R , consensus builder, skilled mediator, and partner on issues

LUANN BALLESTEROS Board Chair

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Maine State Chamber of Commerce

and initiatives important to Maine people and Maine businesses. Add thoughtful, dedicated, respected and passionate, and you’ve described recently retired President and CEO of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce Dana Connors.

In my capacity as a member of the Chamber Board, as vice chair and now newly elected Chair, I have worked closely with Dana for many years and during that time I have come to appreciate the true value and character of his leadership.

Dana has always maintained a focus on advancing the State of Maine and the entire employer community; he leads by example, strategizes in good faith, and negotiates without judgement or umbrage. He is quick to take responsibility and to share success; he is inclusive, analytical and determined. Dana had the rare honor of working successfully with seven gubernatorial administrations, proving that party does not influence his desire to help advance good policy and that his reputation as a non-partisan thought leader is well-merited. Dana deserves our heartfelt thanks and sincere best wishes for the next chapter of his journey; meilleurs voeux mon ami!

“The Voice of Maine Business” ADVOCACY

We have the most respected advocacy presence of any business association in Maine. No other association covers as many issues with broad public policy implications as the Chamber. Covering workers’ compensation, health care, energy, tax policy, education, workforce development, environmental policy, and more, our team of advocates is the largest in the Statehouse.

ACCESS

AWARENESS

Through our various networking events, our more than 5,000 member businesses and their employees have numerous opportunities to share best practices and create solid business contacts each year. Our policy-oriented events also give members the opportunity to interact with issue experts, opinion leaders, and policy makers in a meaningful way.

Whether it’s our Impact newsletter, “The Bottom Line” podcast, “The Maine Take” livestream program, or our many other Newsroom resources including Daily Business Headlines emailed every workday morning, the Maine State Chamber of Commerce makes it easy for members to stay current on all of the important issues that impact Maine businesses and our state’s economy.

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS Someone has to speak up for Maine businesses. That’s where we come in. The Maine State Chamber of Commerce is here, because you have a business to run, product to produce, service to provide, people to employ, and a community to support. You cannot do all those things and make sure the Legislature in Augusta is acting in your best interests. We’re here to influence the outcomes in the Legislature, as well as provide you with information, programs, and events that are a real return on investment of your membership dues. We are taking care of business in Augusta, so that you can take care of yours.

128 State Street, Suite 101 Augusta, ME 04330-5630 (207) 623-4568 mainechamber.org ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

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CONTENTS

Contents .A MESSAGE FROM CHAMBER LEADERSHIP...........................2

Poise and Purpose A Message from Quincy Hentzel.............................................................. 24

.FEATURE STORIES

How Do You Solve a Problem Like Dana?

A Message from Cory King....................................................................... 34

Dana Connors: After Hours....................................................................... 26 Growing Maine’s Workforce: Dana Connors’ Lasting Impact on Public Higher Education and Research in Maine................................. 42 Change for the Better: The Maine State Chamber of Commerce Grows, Evolves and Adapts............................................... 54

.MAINE VOICES Thank You Dana Connors A Message from U.S. Senator Susan M. Collins.........................................18 Worthy of a Governor A Message from U.S. Senator Angus King................................................ 20 A Mentor and Friend: A Message from Kim Hamilton.............................. 22 4

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

A Simple Thank You A Message from Tom Peaco..................................................................... 37 A Chamber Family A Message from Deb Neuman.................................................................. 38 Positive Impact A Message from the Maine Department of Transportation.....................40 An Homage to Dana Connors A Message from Eleanor J. Vadenais.......................................................48 Good Neighbor A Message from Gordon Smith................................................................ 50 Champion for Maine Businesses A Message Peter DelGreco....................................................................... 52

PHOTO: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM / FOTOGUY22

Dana Connors Reflects on His Career with Gratitude ............................... 6

OneVoice Maine is a publication of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce

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Mark Ellis Director of Operations

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ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

5

F E AT U R E S T O R Y

Dana Connors

REFLECTS ON HIS CAREER WITH GRATITUDE

U R I N G T H E N E A R LY six decades of

Award from the American Society for Pub-

Dana Connors’ professional career,

lic Administration;

he has served as the city manager of

the nationally recognized Paul Harris Ser-

Presque Isle, been Maine’s Commissioner

vice Award from the Presque Isle Rotary

of Transportation, and served as President and

International Club;

CEO of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce.

the Maine Development Foundation’s

In addition to his three long-term profes-

Award;

Angus King’s transition team in 1994/95; played

the 2012 Distinguished Maine Policy Fel-

an integral role in addressing the legal, housing

low from the Margaret Chase Smith Policy

and environmental issues at the DeCoster Egg

Center, University of Maine;

Farm in Turner in 1996; and most recently, served

induction into the Junior Achievement’s

on Maine’s Economic Recovery Committee,

Maine Business Hall of Fame in 2014;

a group charged with developing recommen-

and receipt of an Honorary Doctorate

dations to mitigate the damage to the state’s

from UMaine, Orono, in 2015.

economy caused by the COVID-19 pandemic,

Despite his many successes, Dana remains

to jumpstart a long-term economic recovery

humble and, as many colleagues describe him,

for the people, businesses and organizations of

“one of the nicest people I know.” Dana cred-

Maine, and to position the state to get back on

its his successes to living beneath a lucky star,

track with the “10-year Economic Development

helpful people who opened doors along the

Strategy for Maine,” released in 2019.

way, and great teams who did excellent work.

Dana has been the recipient of many awards and honors over the course of his 50-year career:

6

Leadership for Maine’s Economic Future

sional positions, Dana also led Governor-elect

He also credits his parents.

“When I leave at the end of December, I will

The Outstanding Community Service on

be six months away from celebrating my 80th

Behalf of Eastport Business Development

birthday. When people hear that — I think they

Award from the city of Eastport;

are just being kind — but it surprises them,” Dana

the Major Achievements in Construction

said. “I don’t think it’s because of my face or

Award from the Associated General Con-

lines or wrinkles. I just think it’s more about the

tractors;

energy I have and the attitude that I have. I was

the Maine Public Administrator of the Year

blessed with a mom, who lived to be 94, who was

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

PHOTO: DAVE DOSTIE PHOTOGRAPHY

Story by Sheila D. Grant

ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

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F E AT U R E S T O R Y

PHOTOS: CONNORS FAMILY PHOTOS

TOP: Dana at home with his mother.

LEFT: Dana on the farm with his father.

BELOW: Dana sported a bowtie from a young age.

OPPOSITE TOP: Dana with the neighborhood kids in what they referred to as the hollow.

OPPOSITE BOTTOM: Dana walks at graduation.

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Maine State Chamber of Commerce

Dana’s only sibling, Sue, is five years younger.

“She is a caretaker at heart,” he said. “She was always there for Dad and after our dad passed away in his late 60s, my sister took Mom into her home and cared for her until she passed away at the age of 94. Sue is a special sister that I appreciate for the love and care she gave to Mom and Dad.” Dana grew up in Easton, a very small town about 10 miles west of Presque Isle. His high school class consisted of only 23 or 24 students; there were 100 in the entire school. While a good student, Dana said he cared far more about playing basketball — to the point that the farmer that employed Dana and his father created a gym in the barn so that the high schooler could practice whenever he liked.

“ I can remember my advisor saying, ‘We have a program here called

Town and City Government that you might find appealing.’” — D A N A C O N N O R S After high school, Dana attended the University of Maine, initially in the pre-med program. However, as a freshman, Dana was selected, along with some upperclassmen from other New England universities, to go to Tufts for classes and also to shadow doctors to which they were assigned.

“I couldn’t handle it, emotionally,” he recalled. “I an incredible person who always had a positive attitude.

liked the feeling of fixing things. Making things bet-

If it wasn’t something nice, she wouldn’t say it. I think I

ter felt really good, but the illness and death — telling

am blessed with her energy, and hopefully, her attitude.

someone ‘You have stage 4 cancer’ — was just impossi-

She never stopped moving, didn’t want to be helped, and

ble for me.”

wasn’t really that sickly during her lifetime, though she had arthritis toward the end. She was an incredibly special woman and I was grateful that I was her son.”

The time at Tufts made it clear to Dana how important hands-on opportunities are for young people.

“To me, it is one of the greatest, if not the greatest,

And from his father, Dana inherited a strong work

aspects of both the choices young people make, and

ethic. “Neither of my parents graduated from high

also in terms of making our young people in middle

school,” he recounted. “They both came to Easton sep-

school aware of different business opportunities,” Dana

arately as teenagers. Both of their moms died in their

said. Internships and other opportunities to work with

30s, so high school was not in the offing, really. They

businesses allow young people to make choices “not

had to make a living. They ended up in the same town.

based upon what you think but on the experience you

“He was a worker beyond description — talk about

have and a better awareness of what the job or profes-

a gift! My dad worked for a farmer. I can remember him

sion entails. I think that’s extremely valuable.”

working all the time, and making sure I worked on the

Dana went back to his advisor in Orono and admit-

farm, as well. He had a work ethic like nobody I’ve ever

ted that even though he was attracted to medicine, he

seen, and he was gifted in the way he could handle large

suspected his level of emotional involvement would be

equipment and repair vehicles.”

a barrier to a happy and successful medical career.

ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

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F E AT U R E S T O R Y

“I can remember my advisor saying, ‘We have a program here called Town and City Government that you might find appealing.’” Thus, Dana said, it was pure happenstance, purely because of the advisor pointing him in that direction, that he ended up in city government.

As part of that program, both during his undergrad and graduate studies, Dana was required to seek internships. There was no money to travel. Summers were when he earned the money to get him through each school year, so Dana interned under the mentorship of “a very apt, able city manager by the name of John Henchey” in nearby Presque Isle.

During the Vietnam War, Dana served in the National Guard. When he got home from several weeks of training in Texas, Dana was offered the position of Presque Isle’s assistant city manager. Shortly after that, John accepted an offer as city manager in Concord, New Hampshire.

Dana said that one significant part of his professional journey has been that “I’ve always had somebody to open the door for me.” He’s certain that John Henchey opened the door to the city council offering him the city manager’s position.

“The city manager sure saw in me what I didn’t see in myself,” Dana said. “I sincerely believe he opened that door. I was 23; I turned 24 the next month. That period of building my career was extremely important and their actions were so supportive. If you made a mistake, they didn’t discourage you or reprimand you. They acknowledged it, but encouraged you to continue to try.

PHOTOS: CONNORS FAMILY PHOTOS

ABOVE: Countless news articles have featured Dana over the years.

BOTTOM RIGHT: DOT Commissioner Connors BOTTOM LEFT: Celebration as Dana left City Manager position in Presque Isle OPPOSITE: Dana addresses a crowd at the Lewiston Auburn Trade Show Breakfast.

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Maine State Chamber of Commerce

That level of support is so important for

Policy Act, in particular, earned Dana

friend and mentor. I met Dana early in my

a young person. If you know you will be

universal praise for his ability to bring

professional career when I was trying to

punished every time you try something,

together the various parties involved in

get my feet under me and break into the

it will keep you from doing it.”

the divisive referendum campaign and

business of education and economic de-

Dana was hired as the Presque Isle

facilitate consensus through negotiat-

velopment policy,” recalled Ed Cervone,

City Manager in 1968, and at the time,

ed rule-making. In 1991, Maine voters

Director of Business Development at the

was the youngest person in Maine to

stopped the widening project on the

University of New England. “That can be

hold that title. He remained in that role

Maine Turnpike and approved the pas-

a tough task. The world of Maine poli-

for 16 years, and also took on leadership

sage of the STPA, which requires an ex-

cy and advocacy is a relatively small and

positions with the Maine Municipal As-

ploration of transportation alternatives

close-knit community that doesn’t often

sociation.

to the widening and other state highway

change. It can be difficult to get a seat

Then, he said, a friend must have

projects that might help relieve traffic

at the table and make the connections

opened another door by whispering

congestion without the need to con-

needed to influence decision-making.

his name into the ear of Governor Jo-

struct new projects or expand the exist-

seph Brennan. Dana knew the gover-

ing highway infrastructure.

“Dana made space for me at that table from the get-go. He opened doors

nor through his service on a variety of boards, but said he was surprised to get a call from Governor Brennan asking if he’d be interested in interviewing for the position of Commissioner of the Maine Department of Transportation.

“I didn’t apply, so somebody must have recommended me,” he recalled.

But when the job offer came, toward the end of 1983, Presque Isle was in the midst of a crisis, with its largest employer slated to be sold and shut down.

“I didn’t feel like I could leave the people of Presque Isle who had been so good to me for 16 years,” Dana said.

“Again, Joseph Brennan must have seen in me something I didn’t see in myself, because he was willing to wait while I pursued business opportunities to go in the place of the plant being shut down.”

Dana began his 11 years as commis-

“ Always, somebody has opened the door

and showed me the way.” — D A N A C O N N O R S

sioner of the MaineDOT in January, 1984.

During the transition between Dem-

Even in his current position as Presi-

and put his trust in my ideas and my

ocratic Governor Joseph Brennan and

dent of the Maine State Chamber of Com-

work,” Ed said. “He advocated for me

Republican Governor John “Jock” McK-

merce for almost 30 years, Dana credits

in his networks and introduced me to

ernan in 1986, Dana was the only cabi-

someone else for opening the door.

leaders across the state with whom I still

net member retained to serve under the

“When I got this position, Gover-

work today. He didn’t have to do any of

new administration. During his tenure

nor McKernan was close to the end of

that, but he did, and it made a difference

with the MaineDOT, Dana successfully

his term. I am sure his fingerprints are

in my life.”

implemented the Sensible Transpor-

all over my getting this position. Always,

Dana always sets the example of

tation Policy Act, expanded the role of

somebody has opened the door and

what good leadership looks like, Ed said.

the Maine Local Roads Center, instituted

showed me the way,” Dana said.

“The work can be difficult and messy

Total Quality Management and increased

Not one to keep all the good stuff to

at times. We don’t always succeed and

funding for the department to an all-

himself, Dana has also opened doors for

some days can make you question your

time high for project advertising. His ef-

others along the way.

career choices. Even during hard times,

forts around the Sensible Transportation

“I consider myself lucky to call Dana a

Dana remains kind and respectful. He ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

11

F E AT U R E S T O R Y

demonstrates humility and cares about the

look forward to Dana’s next venture and hope to

people around him. Most importantly, he keeps

have a small part in what happens next.”

what’s most important front and center — Maine and its people.”

Ed said he has learned a great deal by watching Dana navigate those waters.

“And I continue to learn and I am grateful. I value his advice and look forward to our chats.

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

Drummond Woodsum, Ben Gilman served as General Counsel and Senior Government Relations Specialist for the Maine State Chamber of Commerce for more than 12 years. He continues to represent the chamber as a client.

We need more Danas in Maine. We need more

Ben said that he had long known of Dana, but

leaders willing to share some of the stage so

it wasn’t until he joined the chamber that he came

that we can grow, be successful and do good

to look on Dana as a mentor and a father figure.

things for Maine and its people.

12

Prior to joining Portland-based law practice

“Everyone knows Dana because of his

“I am not the only person with this experi-

unique background of working with everyone

ence,” Ed concluded. “The list is long and we are

across the political spectrum. He’s just a friend

all fortunate to have Dana Connors on our side. I

to everyone,” Ben said. “Everyone knows Dana

PHOTO: ANGELA ARNO

ABOVE: Dana leading the conversations when the Leadership Summit event went virtual in 2021.

Dana has played an important role in 25

and father figure to me throughout my

percent of the state’s history.

career and has helped me to grow,” said

“To work with someone like that is

Ben. “Dana values relationships and peo-

one of the highlights of my career,” Ben

ple more than anything else and that is

said. “To work alongside someone so well

why he has probably laid out one of the

respected, so beloved not just by elect-

most remarkable careers in the state of

ed officials but by the people of Maine …

Maine. Very few can say they have served

traveling with Dana is like traveling with a

governors of three different political

rock star! Everyone knows him. Everyone

parties and been involved in public poli-

loves him. He always takes time to speak

cy for 50 years.”

with them, whether he’s been recognized

Dana’s respect for people and his

by a former DOT worker, or someone he

way of treating them has shown Ben

knew as a city manager, or one of the

“what is most important, not only in pol-

thousands of businesses he has repre-

itics and work, but in life. I have made it a

sented — you can’t go out to lunch in

hallmark of my career to emulate Dana’s

any corner of this state without some-

style and function because I think it’s

one stopping by the table to talk to Dana

one that benefits the people of Maine.

Connors. He is one of the most genuine

“He’s so unique in terms of his abili-

people. He represents the best of Maine.”

ties,” said Ben. “At the heart of it all, Dana

Losing a convener and consensus

is just a farm kid growing up in Easton

builder of Dana’s stature to retirement will

who attended UMaine. He’s a really

be a loss for the state of Maine, Ben said.

smart, brilliant guy. He could have gone

“I think Dana has served as a mentor

anywhere and done anything, but he’s

“ Dana has spent decades of his life dedicated to

public policy in Maine during his tenure at the State Chamber. I applaud his service to Maine’s business community and the citizens of Maine, and wish him the best in his retirement.” — G O V E R N O R PA U L L E PA G E

and likes Dana. Dana is unique in that he is the only person who has worked for a Democratic, a Republican and an Inde-

LEFT: Dana interviews Gov. Paul LePage during a special video project.

pendent governor. We did a video a couple of years ago with all of Maine’s living governors, and I was with Dana, and able to see his relationships. They see him as a friend, confidant and colleague. Even though he’s never been elected, he sits

PHOTO: MSCC ARCHIVES

on that pedestal because of that tenure.”

Dana might have “only had three jobs,” as he likes to say, but “at the same time, he sat at the table with the most influential Mainers of our time,” Ben said, adding that Maine is 200 years old and ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

13

F E AT U R E S T O R Y

had a life of public service.”

Dana said he has always felt gratitude for all of his opportunities, intermingled

THIS PHOTO: Honoring Olympia Snowe at a Chamber Annual Dinner.

with a deep sense of wanting to do well in return.

“One of the things that has always haunted me to a degree is that no matter what I’ve done in terms of my three professional positions, I never felt I was doing enough,” he confessed. “I’ve always felt that I needed to work harder, longer, more. That probably is an insecurity — I’m playing psychiatrist, which I should not do — but probably that insecurity drove me to do more and try harder. I feel truly blessed to have had the opportunities that have been presented to me.”

On the surface, City Manager, MaineDOT Commissioner and Maine State Chamber of Commerce President might look like very different professional roles, but there are some important commonalities.

“As different as they may appear to people, there is still the common denominator of valuing the opinions of others, respecting that there’s more than one side to any issue, and that relationships and feelings are important to me — that has been a common denominator in each of the three jobs,” Dana explained.

“As a city manager, you’re working with people that have concerns, and advancing the city by working with department

“ For more than 50 years, Dana Connors has dedicated his life to making Maine the best place to live, work, and start and grow a business. His advocacy on behalf of Maine’s business community, and his previous service in state and local government, has played a vital role in making our economy stronger. Over the years, Dana has earned the respect of lawmakers of both parties for his vision, deep

knowledge, wit, and commitment to improving economic outcomes across our state. I thank him for his service and extend my very best wishes as he prepares for a well-deserved retirement.” — G O V E R N O R J A N E T M I L L S 14

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

PHOTOS: MSCC ARCHIVES

heads. In transportation, it’s the same

doing but how you determined what you

thing, but you’re working with munici-

were doing. It’s important to have a plan

palities and legislators. And here [at the

and to articulate how you are using the

chamber] you’re working with the busi-

money, where and why you are using it for

ness community and with politicians on

what you have, so that people understand.”

issues that, in my opinion, are evaluated

Dana feels this has been done well,

not by political party, but by whether or

proven by the fact that “then as now,

not the policy is good for the economy

transportation bonds always pass with re-

and the business community and the

sounding success. Mainers appreciate the

people who work in those businesses.”

value of their transportation,” he said.

Each position has also been con-

And at the Maine State Chamber of

nected to the economy “in one way or

Commerce, “the focus clearly is on the

another,” he said.

economy,” Dana said. “You are the voice

“At the municipal level, you are try-

of the business community, so when it

ing to provide the best service possible

comes to legislative issues, those pol-

at a reasonable cost that’s acceptable to

icies that best serve the economy and

the public, but also at an acceptable tax

the businesses of this state are the ones

rate,” Dana reflected.

you follow. It’s not politically driven. It’s

“At the MaineDOT, the focus is trans-

about the policy, what is good. Does it

portation, which is the foundation of our

help the employer and the employee?

economy. You never have enough money

Does it help us grow the economy?”

to meet all the needs in bridges, highways,

In addition to the advocacy side,

airports and public transit, so you try to

Dana said, there is the information-shar-

be very transparent with the money you

ing side, which includes hosting events,

have and the priorities you establish so

creating publications and more to keep

that people can see not only what you are

members abreast of the issues.

TOP: Dana addresses a group in Portland at the Chamber’s Annual Regional Breakfast Meeting.

BOTTOM: Advocating for education was always a focus of Dana’s chamber career.

ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

15

F E AT U R E S T O R Y

“We also work very closely with the

took the “Myers-Briggs” personality test,

local and regional chambers, which again

which revealed Dana to be an extravert-

reflects relationship and the acknowl-

ed, intuitive, feeling, perceiving individ-

edgment that together we are stronger

ual, while the strongest traits of many

“I am probably not going to be re-

than any of us is individually.”

others at the MaineDOT were introver-

membered as the Commissioner of Trans-

sion, sensing, thinking and judgement.

portation that built whichever bridge

In all of his endeavors, Dana said, it’s people that matter.

“When people ask me about the

Those ENFP people skills have been an asset.

cause they think differently.”

Issues and initiatives come and go over the decades, he said.

got built or which highway, but people will remember how they felt, whether or

length of my tenure in my various po-

“I really wouldn’t want it any other

not they were listened to. People will re-

sitions, which is a little unusual in each,

way,” Dana said. “I think any time, in jobs

member if you helped them, worked with

I say that I try to find the best people,

like I’ve had, that you are transparent and

them, respected them,” Dana said, chok-

with a good attitude and aptitude. I

your people see you as being fair and ob-

ing up a little.

guide them but I don’t direct them. I let

jective, I think people appreciate that,

“I am struggling,” he admitted. “Would

them do their jobs. You brought them to

particularly in the times we’re in now. I

I as much a year from now? Probably. But

your team for a reason. I participate, but I

think it has served me well.

I think I came to the realization that I was

don’t direct. That has proven invaluable,

“Do I get criticized at times for not

appointed, not anointed. It’s just one of

particularly in this job, but also at the

being aggressive or militant? Yeah, I’m

those intuitive things that I’m either bless-

MaineDOT … I suppose at all three. The

sure I do. But I do stand up, if it supports

ed with or cursed by. About a year ago, in

common thread is the people.”

the economy and business community

May, I said to my officers on the board, ‘Oh,

It was during his tenure at the

and employers and employees,” Dana

by the way, do you know how old I am? And

MaineDOT that Dana learned that he

said. “I’m sure I’ve been criticized more

how long I’ve been in this position? I think

doesn’t process things the same way

than once for not being strident enough

we need to be talking about a transition for

some colleagues might, and that people

on the issues, but that’s not me. I don’t

somebody to take my place.’ My energy is

have many distinct ways to process and

shy away for a moment, but even then, I

good and I enjoy everything I do, but a year

view issues. He and several colleagues

don’t kick sand in somebody’s face be-

ago in May I had been there 28 years and I

“ I think any time, in jobs like I’ve had, that you are transparent and your people see you as being fair and objective, I think people appreciate that, particularly

in the times we’re in now. I think it has served me well.” — D A N A C O N N O R S was going to be 79 in July. They asked me to give them a year, and it will be a year and a half in December.

“It had nothing to do with the things that usually determine why people go,” Dana continued. “I love my job, I love the people I work with, and the political process, the governors — all different but that wanted to serve the state to the best of their abilities — and for two of them I served on their cabinet. That was a woncci actually became a friend, and Paul

THIS PHOTO: Congressman Michael H. Michaud meets with Dana in Washington.

[LePage] and Janet [Mills] have been very accessible. We have worked very well together and I have nothing but the highest respect for them.”

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Maine State Chamber of Commerce

PHOTO: MSCC ARCHIVES

derful opportunity for me. John Balda-

These days, Dana said he feels a good deal of sadness, not because of any issue or initiative that he won’t see to fruition, but “because of what I’m leaving behind in terms of the experiences, the people that I worked with, all of that. It is a wonderful opportunity, an exciting position!

You live on the edge when it comes to many of the issues. You support the projects that you know will be best for the economy, even though you may not prevail; you still need to try. I’ve had nothing but good luck and enjoyment, so there is sadness that this chapter is coming to an end, and that’s tough.”

Dana said that something perhaps “not very flattering of me, is that I’ve had difficulty leaving all three positions, and I’ve come to accept that in each, I kind of took on an ownership,” he said. “Probably I wasn’t asked to do that, and in some ways, one would argue that I shouldn’t do that, but I have, and I give that as a strong basis for the difficulty, because over 29, going on 30 years, it’s hard not to take ownership of something that means so much, to just walk away. I confess it is very difficult.

“My wife and I were riding around this summer in the Ogunquit/Wells area and along the roadside was a hand-painted sign that said, ‘Nothing changes if nothing changes,’ and I said, ‘Oh, my Lord, are they talking about me?’ I never forgot that, because in truth, when you look at growing the economy, it has to change, no matter how many ideas I have or how much I love my team. Change is part of life.”

Despite

impending

“retirement,”

this will likely not be Dana’s last professional position.

“I’ve had a couple of parties reach out and explore with me that are of interest, and I’m kind of excited about that, once I get over my sadness — I may have to go through therapy to get through this emotional state! But, when another door opens, I know I will be passionate about it, too. That tends to be my nature. I hear my mom saying, ‘Find the good and praise it. Find the opportunity and appreciate it.’”

ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

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MAINE VOICES

State Chamber of Commerce and people throughout our State in thanking Dana Connors for a remarkable career of devoted service and lasting contributions. In addition to being an outstanding leader, Dana is a cherished friend to me and so many others.

I first met Dana when I was working for A Message from U.S. Senator Susan M. Collins Bill Cohen in Washington and he was the City Manager of Presque Isle. Both of us are natives of Aroostook County, so we have always ABOVE: Senator Collins presents Dana with had that special County bond.

Years later, we served together in GoverCongressional Record at his retirement gala.

FAR RIGHT: Senator Collins and Dana in December 2022. nor McKernan’s cabinet, where he was Com-

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Maine State Chamber of Commerce

PHOTOS: DAVE DOSTIE PHOTOGRAPHY

Thank You, Dana Connors

I T I S A G R E AT P L E A S U R E to join the Maine

supporter of Maine’s traditional industries, including farming, fishing, and forestry, and a champion of such emerging industries as advanced manufacturing and biotechnology.

What motivates Dana are his love for our state; his belief in our communities; and his deep affection for our hard-working, ingenious, and determined people. He understands the importance of creating an environment that is conducive to small businesses starting up, growing, and expanding.

Above all, Dana is passionate about ensuring that Mainers have good jobs and are able to stay right here in Maine. There is no better demonstration of this desire than his strong and effective advocacy for vocational education, apprenticeships, and other programs that provide Mainers with skills that are in demand by Maine employers.

I am especially grateful to Dana for the advice he provided during the pandemic as I was drafting the Paycheck Protection Program. I knew I could turn to him for guidance on how it should be crafted and what would work best to help our small employers remain in business and continue to pay their employees. Dana was truly an invaluable resource during that crisis.

There is one special memory of Dana that I want to share. In 2016, he brought together all five of Maine’s living United States Senators — George Mitchell, Bill Cohen,

Olympia Snowe, Angus King, and me — for a forum about public confidence in government and bipartisanship. It is a testament to the enduring relationships Dana has forged and the respect he has earned from members of both parties that he was able to get all five former and current senators to come to the same event on the same night.

There’s another part to that story that says so much about Dana. My husband, Tom Daffron, was teaching a class at the University of Maine at the time. He told Dana that the Senators forum would be a wonderful event for students to attend, but they could not afford to pay for the dinner. Dana quickly devised a solution. He offered students the opportunity to volunteer at the event, which would allow them to attend for free. Those students were absolutely thrilled to see five Maine senators on the same stage discussing the issues of the day, all because of Dana’s generosity and his caring for the next generation.

Dana has made such a positive difference for Maine in all of the positions he has held. His legacy is that Maine is an even better place to live, raise a family, and start a business. He has done so much, and I know that there is another chapter yet to come. In the meantime however, I offer my very best wishes to Dana and Joyce, and my deepest thanks.

missioner of Transportation. All of us were in awe of the fact that Dana could go into any meeting, and no matter how unhappy the people might be about the condition of a road or bridge in their community, they inevitably came out smiling. He just had a knack, which he still has, of always listening to people and making them feel valued.

From there, Dana stepped forward to serve as President of the Chamber. Throughout his nearly 30 years of leadership, he has shown a deep understanding of the role of businesses in our state, particularly those that are owned by families. He is a staunch ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

19

MAINE VOICES

A Message from U.S. Senator Angus King

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Maine State Chamber of Commerce

W H E N Y O U G E T E L E C T E D as a governor

they send you to something called “New Governor’s School” — it’s a three-day long seminar with bipartisan leaders from across the country who teach you how to be a governor, how to set up your budget office, how to deal with the press and so on. Well, in 1994 right after I had been elected I went down to New Governor’s School in West Virginia with the head of my transition team Dana Connors.

There we are, just two guys from Maine walking into a hotel in West Virginia with most of the nation’s governors. We get to the lobby and they all come up to us and

start saying “governor, thank you so much for coming, congratulations on your election,” not to me — but to Dana. Here I am looking like I just came out of the Maine woods, but Dana — he looks like a governor.

Dana has never let me forget that, and it speaks to a larger part of who he is. Not only is Dana Connors the best dressed person in Maine; you can tell from the way he carries himself that he is a man of character, integrity, and fierce work ethic. It’s why he’s been so successful. Everyone knows that Dana Connors is someone you can count on and that will always do right by you.

PHOTOS: (TOP) ANGELA ARNO; (OPPOSITE) MSCC ARCHIVES

Worthy of a Governor

I think it also has something to do with being from Aroostook County. There’s this unique County work ethic and character that comes from living in a small, rural community.

All of Maine is one big, small town where relationships matter and nowhere is that more true than The County. When you live in a small town you’ve got to be honest, you’ve got to be dependable — because if you’re not, everyone knows; and there goes your reputation.

Dana’s always understood this. Throughout his career, whether it was as city manager of Presque Isle, Commissioner of Transportation, or President of the Chamber for over 30 years, he’s always kept us all honest.

He’s always communicated — to his members as well as to the general public — about the importance of doing what’s right. He’s been an advocate without being a partisan. He’s not a Democrat or a Republican — he’s simply an advocate for Maine and its businesses. Even on the most contentious issues, he’s going to be straightforward with you and keep his word, even if it isn’t political expedient.

They say that the character and personality of a leader infects an organization, wheth-

ABOVE: Dana and Governor King presenting the Chamber Executive of the Year award to local/regional chamber executives. OPPOSITE: Senator King joins the Maine State Chamber for Breakfast at the annual Washington D.C. Fly-In.

er it’s a small five-person company or General Electric, it has an influence on the whole operation. I think Dana’s personality and integrity has permanently infected the Chamber

and our entire state. Our small town is better because of him, and even as he retires, Dana’s character and poise worthy of a governor is going to live on for years.

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21

MAINE VOICES

A Mentor and Friend A Message from Kim Hamilton

PHOTOS: MSCC ARCHIVES

Former President, FocusMaine

22

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

DEAR DANA,

As you celebrate this milestone in your meaningful career, I want to thank you for being a mentor and friend.

You may remember that you played an important role in making it possible for me to return to Maine. I had an interview with you and Bob Moore and had come prepared with a what I thought was a well-structured presentation on how to launch FocusMaine’s programs. I really wanted to share it. It became apparent early-on that you didn’t want a presentation; you wanted a conversation and you wanted to learn more about me.

That was one of the first, most important lessons you taught me. Relationships matter in Maine. True, they matter everywhere, but in a small state like ours, they matter a lot.

Now, knowing you a bit more, it’s not difficult to see that you are the master at building strong, life-long partnerships that have served the state of Maine. You showed me how to navigate the small “p” and the big “P” politics of Maine. You brought me into the Chamber’s fold and helped me build more relationships of my own. You also kindly provided wise counsel when I was headed into rockier terrain. You made me a better leader.

I am forever grateful, Dana, for having had the opportunity to work with you and to learn from you.

As you head out on this next big adventure, we will all press on. We’ll do so, though, with just a little less heart and a lot less flair without you at the helm of the Chamber.

With appreciation, Kim Hamilton

OPPOSITE: Dana poses for a photo in support of Red Nose Day, to build a healthy future for children. ABOVE: Dana and the advocacy team meet with a chamber committee on a legislative issue.

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MAINE VOICES

A Message from Quincy Hentzel, President & CEO, Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce ABOVE: Dana and Quincy having a laugh during a recent interview.

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Maine State Chamber of Commerce

D A N A H A S B E E N A N I N C R E D I B L E and

influential force to me as a leader of a regional chamber. I have learned a good deal both from watching Dana navigate the intricacies of his role as well as working side by side with him on a myriad of issues. He has shown me not just how to run a chamber, but how to lead and successfully address the needs of a wide range of constituents as well as the needs of our communities.

His role as President of the Maine State Chamber is complex and varied, serving an expansive range of businesses and industry sectors that cover the entire state. Dana has navigated his position with such poise and purpose.

He has found success in his endeavors in large part because of the importance he places on individual relationships — something I have come to appreciate as one of the most critical if not most rewarding aspects of working in our community. He has lead by example, forging relationships with all

constituencies, forming a level of trust that inspires collaboration and leading with truth and honesty. Without knowing, he has been a mentor to so many and has also been one of the most steadfast supporters of all of the local and regional chambers — always there with a word of support or gratitude, or willingness to help us take on whatever challenge we might be facing. His work for and dedication to the state of Maine is an inspiration to others and serves as a model as to how to lead, influence and make an impact. I am grateful to have crossed paths with him professionally and though he might be stepping away from his role at the chamber, I am forever grateful to continue to call him my friend.

Thank you Dana — for dedicating so much of your life to our great state of Maine.

I feel I can safely speak for all of our local and regional chambers when I say Dana’s leadership has made an immeasurable difference and we are grateful to have learned from the best.

PHOTO: MAINE LIFE MEDIA

Poise and Purpose

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F E AT U R E S T O R Y 26

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

DANA CONNORS:

After Hours Story by Sheila D. Grant

E S P I T E C O N F E S S I N G to mulling over work issues while mowing the lawn or blowing the snow, Dana really does have a life outside of his successful professional endeavors. He is a romantic and a devoted family man with numerous interesting hobbies.

Dana and his life partner of 17 years, Joyce LaRoche, married in 2015. The couple, who lives in southern Maine, still go out for Friday night date nights.

They fell in love on the job, so to speak. Joyce worked at the Maine State Chamber of Commerce for 18 years, initially in membership recruitment and eventually as VP of Member Services and Program Development.

“That’s how we got to know each other,” Joyce said.

“So many people had no idea that we were together.

We worked really hard at separating our personal and professional lives, so work was work and home was home. We were a great team working together for so many years!”

Joyce said that as a colleague, she appreciated Dana’s ability to hone in on what people are good at and allowing them to flourish.

PHOTO: COURTESY THE CONNORS FAMILY

“Dana is just really marvelous at allowing people to utilize their strengths, and he’s been that way with everybody in the 18 years I was there,” she said. “He is so OPPOSITE: Dana, Joyce and their grandchildren

ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

27

F E AT U R E S T O R Y

leaders in the state.” — J O Y C E L A R O C H E

ABOVE: Dana and Joyce share a love of golf.

28

together. We love to travel. We, and particularly I, love musical theater.”

He regrets that there aren’t more opportunities for couples to dance these days.

“I grew up dancing and I loved to dance,” Dana recalled. “In high school, besides my love of basketball, it was dancing. At our high school, every noontime,

amazing to work with. He’s such a great leader. I always

there was dancing. And on weekends I would hitch a

tell him, and not just because he’s my husband, that

ride one night to the recreation center in Presque Isle

he is one of the most influential leaders in the state.

and the other to the Armory, where there was music

That started early on, as a city leader in Presque Isle,

and dancing.”

and then at the DOT, then at the chamber, and in the

Family, too, is important to the couple.

roles he played in between. He’s just really remarkable

“We have six grandchildren and they are our pride

in terms of his vision, his patience, and how he is such

and joy,” Dana said. “I have two sons from my first mar-

a collaborator. What made my job easier was that he

riage. In my second marriage, Joyce has a son and a

loved new ideas and looking at things we could do dif-

daughter, Jacob and Shaina. I have one son, Chris, in Los

ferently or ways to be inclusive that would benefit the

Angeles in the movie industry who does not have chil-

membership and beyond.”

dren, and my oldest, Greg, in in Portland has two chil-

“We do a lot of things together,” said Dana. “We

dren: Parker is 9 and Delany is 7. Joyce’s daughter has a

play golf together — she is getting to be better than

little girl, Charlotte, who is a little over 3, and another

I, which is not a particularly high bar! We downhill ski

little girl, Daphne, who just turned 1. Her son has a set of

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

PHOTO: MSCC ARCHIVES

“ He’s such a great leader. I always tell him, and not just because he’s my husband, that he is one of the most influential

THIS PAGE: Dana enjoys time spent with his family over the years. identical twins, Bailey and Regan, two girls who are amazing little people, who are 2-ish. Joyce has little Charlotte and Daphne stay every Tuesday evening and Wednesday until she takes them home, and Daphne. We had them both this weekend. I think I have a lot of energy — and I do — but keeping up with that 3-year-old or the twins is a different level of energy I only wish I had!”

Dana said that his relationship with his grandchildren is an expression of complete, unconditional love.

“Parker is the only boy and he is the oldest,” Joyce said. “From nearly the day he was born, there was absolutely a connection between Dana and Parker. It’s just very evident. You can see that there’s a connection between the two of them.”

The couple rents a large home each summer so that PHOTOS: CONNORS FAMILY PHOTOS

the entire family can vacation together, and organizes family events throughout the year that they jokingly call “Forced Family Fun.” “We invite everyone to come so we can all be together to have that so-important family time,” Joyce said. “It’s pretty special.”

Dana also loves sailing on the lake on the catamaONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

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F E AT U R E S T O R Y

ran that Joyce bought him. He enjoys reading. His love of music includes not

THIS PHOTO: Dana visits a new grandchild in the hospital.

only musical theater but also singing.

“I love to go to musicals at theaters — I can’t get enough of it! And I like singing. ‘Performing’ might be an exaggeration. The music teacher that I go to is a great musician who went on to higher education for both piano and singing.

He’ll never make me what he is in terms of singing,” Dana said. “My kids used to get annoyed because every time they would say something it would remind me of a song and I would sing. Just because I like it doesn’t mean I should be performing, by any means!”

Dana’s teacher, Arthur Melendy, has belonged to several musical groups, and sometimes, multiple groups at once.

Arthur has performed at a Maine State Chamber board appreciation dinner, and his group, The Waiters, performed at a birthday party for Joyce. On these occasions, “he had me come up and sing a couple of songs,” Dana recalled.

“The first time I ever did it, I was nervous,” he said. “In my job, for good or bad, I speak publicly quite a bit and I’ve grown comfortable over time, but those butterflies in my stomach turned into birds when I got up to sing because it’s so personal. When you speak, you can make mistakes or say a word wrong and it’s not so bad, but when you sing and make a mistake it’s very revealing, so there is some trepidation with putting myself out there to sing.

“ Parker is the only boy and he is the oldest From nearly the day he was born, there was absolutely

a connection between Dana and Parker.

It’s just very evident.” — J O Y C E L A R O C H E

“But, I’ve come to the realization that you don’t have to be great or even very good to enjoy something as long as you treat it the right way,” Dana said. “It’s a fulfillment and that’s what matters.”

Dana avoids social media, cognizant of the fact that even in his private life, he Commerce and its business community.

“I have a personal side that I protect pretty well because I try to maintain my position with the chamber, for which I am grateful, and of which I’m having such a hard time to let go,” he said.

30

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

PHOTO: CONNORS FAMILY PHOTO

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F E AT U R E S T O R Y

“ We’ll get away — it’s important for me to get away. I don’t want to be looking back over my shoulder; it’s not in my nature and I want to avoid it at all costs, so we will get away for two or three weeks.” — D A N A C O N N O R S

said there are some fun things on the horizon.

“I wasn’t one to really take vacations — once

ABOVE: The entire family came out to celebrate Dana at his retirement gala in 2022.

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Maine State Chamber of Commerce

for me, and I can pass through that just as I have the other three positions,” he said.

Joyce, too, is looking forward to good things.

I took 10 days, but part of that was for a con-

“This whole transition has been very chal-

vention,” he said. “I’ve got a son in Los Angeles

lenging for Dana and I am anxious to see what

who is in the movie industry and his wife owns

comes next for him,” she said. “He certainly de-

a business. We are going to go spend time with

serves to be able to step back and find some-

them. And we have friends in Florida that we will

thing he really wants to do that will provide that

spend a week with. We’ll get away — it’s import-

sense of belonging and value. He still has so

ant for me to get away. I don’t want to be looking

much more to give.”

back over my shoulder; it’s not in my nature and

“There’s been a lot of divine guidance, or

I want to avoid it at all costs, so we will get away

maybe that lucky star that has been there guid-

for two or three weeks.”

ing me in spite of myself,” Dana said. “I read

When he returns to Maine, Dana will be

something recently that reminded me that this

looking out for what’s next. Just as Dana feels

isn’t about saying goodbye; it’s about showing

doors opened to him unexpectedly throughout

appreciation for what has taken place in my pro-

his professional career, “it may sound weird, but

fessional life and how grateful I am that I’ve had

I expect and hope that a door opens that works

that good fortune.”

PHOTO: DAVE DOSTIE PHOTOGRAPHY

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MAINE VOICES

How Do You Solve a Problem

Like Dana?

A Message from Cory King

Bath-Brunswick Regional Chamber

OF COURSE, MY FRIEND — who is worthy of all of the accolades that have come his way — will surely recognize the allusion to a musical that this title conveys. But in all sincerity, Dana has left us with a curious problem to solve. Sharp suits and pocket squares aside, leaders like Dana are difficult to replace. Dana is an exceptionally rare leader and I’m not sure we’ve all fully appreciated just why that is.

Sure, we can all share a story or a laugh we’ve had with Dana, or a time he inspired us, mentored us, showed us undeserved kindness, or impressed us. I remember when I first

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Maine State Chamber of Commerce

met him, I was enthralled at his speech patterns and how his precise word choice conveyed perfect tone to the topic- it was mesmerizing to watch him deliver a speech- at times, the topic itself was secondary. Even after all of these years, I think you can count on one hand the number of people who can command the attention of a room quite the way Dana still can, and has for five decades.

Yet, it’s not the silver tongue of the Silver Fox that makes him exceptionally rare as a leader, a colleague, and a friend. His rare quality is his selflessness. Think about it — ­ when was the last time Dana beat his chest or patted his own back as so many

others are prone to do in 2022? He’s constantly lifting up those around him, and trying to minimize his own impact even when we don’t believe him. However, that’s only one aspect of his selflessness.

In the time I’ve known Dana, there have been literally thousands of policies introduced that would either elevate our State, bring us to our knees, or something in between. Dana approached every single one

PHOTO: MSCC ARCHIVES

SHARP SUITS AND POCKET SQUARES ASIDE, LEADERS LIKE DANA ARE DIFFICULT TO REPLACE. the same way, with an open mind in search of a solution that could satisfy the greatest amount of people. Even when it was a bad bill, certain for defeat, Dana would hear out the other side to ensure there wasn’t anything to be learned from it. He always makes everyone feel heard. There’s a gift in that.

However, the striking point for me is, through all of these policy debates, and business issues, I can’t be 100% sure that I’ve ever known exactly where Dana stood personally on any of issue. That’s not to say Dana didn’t have an opinion — quite the opposite, in fact. Few people have the genuine passion for Maine that Dana does and I guarantee he felt passionate on one side of those issues or the other. However, Dana never let on what is personal opinion was — he was always putting the best solution for Maine first. He loves this State so much that if what was best for the State was different then how he felt, he would ignore his own beliefs — he wouldn’t even make the decision consciously; it’s so ingrained in him that it would be reflexive.

That’s the very definition of selfless.

The naïve witness this act and think it weak. They would be fools. They can’t comprehend the amount of composure, intelligence, and trust such an approach requires.

Yet Dana lived that every day, and no matter the resolution, he would have two sides willing to work with him on the next issue. It couldn’t have been easy. I’m sure there were times he wanted to explode.

Congratulations to Maine State Chamber President and CEO

Dana Connors on your retirement With deep appreciation for your longstanding commitment, leadership and advocacy for a thriving economy to support the people of Maine

ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

35

36

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

PHOTOS: MSCC ARCHIVES

MAINE VOICES

For me, that’s the secret behind the suits — they’re the battle armor that helps keep him composed. A sharp-cut suit, to contain the warrior — and the matching tie and pocket square are his war paint. His blue eyes constantly planning and prodding the room, looking for a tick or a flinch — any sign that one side had taken an almost unnoticeable step toward his goal. His mind is constantly moving and he notices everything. There’s a reason Dana and I have never played poker — he’d wipe the floor with me.

Again, who does that anymore? Who puts the needs of others so far in front of their own opinions that no one can even tell the difference? That’s what true selflessness is. Not just deflecting compliments and elevating those around you, or making time for any person who says they need your advice, but truly putting the needs of all Mainers, all Maine businesses, ahead of your own. It’s a sacrifice he makes gladly.

So, again I ask — how do we solve a problem like Dana?

How do we replace his leadership? The answer, of course, is that we don’t. The answer is that we accept that his selfless servant leadership style lives only within the rarest of leaders — the kind of leaders who are minted on coins and you don’t have to go to school on their birthdays. That’s the class of leader that Dana is, and how rare it is. We do our Chamber, and our State a disservice, thinking that anyone can step into those particularly dapper shoes.

Instead, it’s incumbent upon us all to be the willing student and take what we’ve learned by observing this selfless man over the last 50 years and incorporate it into our own lives. When the next contentious issue arises — an issue you feel so passionately about that you would sooner make your vocal chords go raw from shouting then to hold your tongue for a moment — stop and remind yourself that what you want doesn’t matter at all. The only thing that matters is what is TOP ROW: Dana’s many ties and pocket squares. best for the State. Then take a deep breath, open your mind, ABOVE: Dana testifies in front of congress on “Flipping and ask the opponent what their perspective is and why that the Switch on Rural Digital Entrepreneurship,” feels like the right decision to them — and listen without interrupting. It won’t be easy. You may need some armor. May I suggest on those days, you wear a matching tie and pocket square. I have a good friend who swears by them.

A Simple Thank You A Message from Tom Peaco

PHOTO: MELANIE BAILLARGEON

Former Executive Director of the Penobscot Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce

DEAR DANA,

A simple thank you doesn’t seem nearly enough to capture my gratitude for your mentorship and leadership during my tenure in the “Chamber family”, as you always called it. Your consistently warm and genuine inclusion of local and regional Chamber leaders never went unnoticed and was always appreciated.

There is no question that you are a legendary Maine leader, and you achieved that status without ever seeking elected office. Always the best dressed man in the room, you utilized your positive influence to be a passionate advocate for Maine businesses and

Maine people, and you built a well-deserved reputation for being able to engage with leaders from both sides of the aisle, even as past leaders gave way to new ones over time. You are leaving a great legacy of leadership that will be nearly impossible to replicate.

It is an honor for me to add my voice to so many others who are saluting you for a job very well done.

Given your never-ending energy, I know that you will find ways to remain engaged in making a positive influence for the state of Maine, and I look forward to seeing what’s next.

Sincerely, Tom Peaco

ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

37

MAINE VOICES

A Chamber Family A Message from Deb Neuman President and CEO, Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce President, Maine Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives 38

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

PHOTO: DAVE DOSTIE PHOTOGRAPHY

THIS PHOTO: Dana presented Deb with the Chamber Executive of the Year award in 2019.

O N E O F T H E T H I N G S I most appreciate

about you, Dana, is your accessibility, humility, and mentorship. You have a way of making everyone feel important and valued.

I saw this time and time again as you worked with, coached, mentored, and supported local and regional chamber directors through your support of MACCE (Maine Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives).

Someone in your position could easily make others feel that you are too important to give them your time. That has never, ever been you, Dana. You not only provided support to other chamber leaders, you went out of your way to showcase and celebrate our successes! That means more than you know.

At our last MACCE conference, a newly hired director arrived, and she knew no one.

I stopped and sat with her to ensure she knew she was welcomed to the conference, but more than that, to welcome her to our chamber “family.” I learned that from you, Dana. You always speak of us like we are your family and treat us like family. You made each of us feel welcome and supported from day one. I promise to carry that forward.

As you know, leading a Chamber of Commerce, regardless of its size or location is the best job ever! It can also be one of the most challenging and frustrating gigs as was proven these last few pandemic years. I always appreciated your honesty, transparency, and humility about not having all the answers.

That made me feel a lot better when I had those days of having absolutely no idea what I was doing! Further, you demonstrated the importance and power of working together (regardless of party or politics) to find solutions to problems and challenges.

Given how humble you are, I suspect you will never fully realize the positive impact you have made on us, on our state and well beyond. It is not over. Those of us who had the privilege to work with and learn from you will continue to carry on your good work, contributions, and legacy.

You left things better than you found them, including all of us in your chamber family.

With much love, respect and a huge thank you, Deb

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Family • Community Quality • Value ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

39

A Message from the Maine Department of Transportation

40

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

W E H AV E A LW AY S B E E N P R O U D that you

are part of our Maine Department of Transportation family, Dana. Your positive impact on our state’s infrastructure continues to be felt and appreciated nearly 30 years after your tenure as commissioner ended. As a former city manager, you pushed MaineDOT to be more collaborative with Maine’s municipalities and to fully recognize them as the partners that they are. Under your leadership, the role and outreach of the Maine Local Roads Center expanded, and it remains a robust community outreach program to this day.

PHOTO: ADOBESTOCK.COM/MISS

MAINE VOICES

Positive Impact

A collaborator to your core, you helped MaineDOT and the state navigate through successful implementation of the Sensible Transportation Policy Act. Your work earned universal praise for bringing together the parties involved after a divisive referendum campaign and having them reach consensus through negotiated rulemaking. Additionally, you recognized the intersection of Maine’s natural environment and our infrastructure, elevating our Environment Office and establishing it as a key element of our project delivery process.

The people of Maine have you to thank for overseeing the renaissance of passenger rail transportation in our state. You were instrumental in establishing the Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority and negotiating the service between Boston and Portland.

You continued your service as a board member and chair of NNEPRA for two decades.

As commissioner, you moved Maine forward with critical investments in our infrastructure. You oversaw the start of one of the largest public works project since the establishment of the department with the construction of the Casco Bay Bridge between Portland and South Portland. You connected communities and led the recovery from one of Maine’s worst floods of modern times, the flood of 1987, which caused more than 140 highway closures at the peak of the disaster.

Your leadership on transportation issues did not end when you left your role as commissioner. As the head of the Maine State Chamber for the past 30 years, you continued to advocate for the transportation needs of our state. Once again, you were instrumental in bringing people together to support transportation bonds and funding reform. With one foot in the business community and one in the transportation sector, you have helped form critical bonds between the private sector and public sector – bonds that continue to ensure that Maine government works together for all people to encourage and promote sustainable and vital economic growth.

As you enter retirement, please know that your incredible contributions to the State of Maine and its people will be felt for generations to come.

Congratulations from your family at MaineDOT!

Dana Connors has earned gratitude and respect from not only Maine

businesses, but from the entire State, for his wise and insightful leadership on so many important public policy issues throughout his distinguished career.

We personally also want to express our deep gratitude and respect for having had the privilege, honor, and enjoyment of working closely with Dana when we represented the Chamber in significant matters.

Dana’s talent, wisdom, and energy are infused with a strong and consistent integrity that should be admired by all.

Thank you, Dana Two Monument Square, Suite 900 Portland, ME 04101 207.775.0200 www.pmhlegal.com

ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

41

F E AT U R E S T O R Y

Growing Maine’s DANA CONNORS’ LASTING IMPACT ON PUBLIC HIGHER EDUCATION AND RESEARCH IN MAINE Story by Samantha Warren

O R N E A R LY T H R E E D E C A D E S , Dana Connors has been an unwavering advocate for the University of Maine System among business leaders and state lawmakers as president of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce. And while he will soon retire, Connors’ support for Maine’s public universities, and especially his alma mater, the University of Maine, will persist, parBlack Bears and Maine’s future leaders.

In celebration of Connors being awarded an honorary doctorate in 2015 as part of the university’s 150th anniversary celebration, his colleagues and friends

42

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

PHOTOS: MSCC ARCHIVES

ticularly through a gift that will support

BOTH PHOTOS: Dana Connors receives Honorary Doctorate Degree from the University of Maine at the 2015 University of Maine Commencement. Left: Jeff Hecker, Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, University of Maine; Center: Dana F. Connors, University of Maine Class 1965, Honorary Doctorate Degree Recipient; Right: Samuel Collins, University of Maine System Board of Trustees Chair

Bell says receiving the Connors Scholarship makes attending college more affordable, helping him work toward completing his degree “with results I can be proud of.” Bell plans to pursue a career in wealth management, a role he says will make great use of the skills he developed at UMaine, and he will study for the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Level I exam. He plans to obtain a master’s degree in either economics or financial economics.

“The scholarship serves as a reminder that giving back to others always has a lasting impact, and I don’t take for granted how fortunate I am to be a recipient of the scholarship this year,” Bell says. “I’m thankful for what Dana has contributed to the university and greater community.

Workforce

His gratuity will undoubtedly help several aspiring professionals accomplish their goals.”

From scholarships to advocacy in Augusta, Connors has long been an invaluable partner in advancing UMS student success and the System’s tripartite mission of education, research and pub-

established the Dana F. Connors Schol-

senior pursuing a bachelor’s degree in

lic service, says UMS Vice Chancellor for

arship Fund at the University of Maine

management and minors in leadership

Research and Innovation and UMaine

Foundation. Scholarships from this fund

studies, military science and leadership,

President Joan Ferrini-Mundy, who re-

are awarded to UMaine students studying

and psychology.

calls him being among the first to wel-

public management, as he did, political science or business administration.

Williams worked for Tyler Technolo-

come her to Maine when she joined the

gies as a form designer after graduating

university in 2018, and hosting her regularly on his podcast.

We encourage you to donate to the

from UMaine and recently became a cli-

fund in recognition of his retirement by

ent reporting analyst for Unum. Caron, a

“Dana is a true testament to the cal-

visiting our.umaine.edu/connors.

member of UMaine’s Army Reserve Officer

iber of high-impact leaders produced

Training Corps (ROTC) plans to pursue a

by the University of Maine and our UMS

“ I ’ M T H A N K F U L F O R D A N A”

career as a U.S. Army helicopter pilot, and

public universities. It’s remarkable to me

The inaugural scholarship recipients

then open her own restaurant and bar.

and an inspiration to our students how

were Connor Williams of Union, Maine,

This year’s recipient is Connor Bell

he has leveraged his strong work ethic, a

who graduated in May 2021 with a bach-

of Gorham, Maine, a senior majoring in

passion for this state, and his UMaine ed-

elor’s degree in management, and Maya

finance and management who graduates

ucation and relationships to make such

Caron of Stratton, Maine, currently a

this December.

a positive and lasting impact. We are ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

43

were essential to the development and

State Transportation Commissioner and

friend, and are grateful for his decades of

now implementation of that plan, and

MSCC President, Connors has partnered

service to our university, our System and

my own understanding of our challeng-

and led numerous efforts that helped

this state,” said President Ferrini-Mundy.

es and incredible opportunities,” Ferri-

UMaine and UMS establish and expand

The two also worked together on

ni-Mundy says. “Like Dana, that plan has

vital public resources to strengthen and

the state’s 10-year Strategic Economic

been a north star that will serve us far

grow Maine’s workforce and economy,

Development Plan, released in 2019 by

into the future as we chart a course of

and further the state’s global leadership

Governor Janet Mills.

recovery from the pandemic and long-

through innovation.

“Dana’s insights into the Maine

term growth.”

economy and the public policy land-

opment Foundation (MDF) and later, Ed-

scape here and his vision for the pros-

MAKING MAINE WORK

ucate Maine, Connors and the Chamber

perity of this state and all of its people

In his roles as Presque Isle City Manager,

launched Making Maine Work, a series

THIS PHOTO: Dana speaks to a crowd at the University of Maine at Fort Kent with State Economist Laurie Lachance.

PHOTO: MSCC ARCHIVES

44

In partnership with the Maine Devel-

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

PHOTO: MSCC ARCHIVES

F E AT U R E S T O R Y

so proud to call him a Black Bear and a

of economic-related reports and rec-

Maine and its citizens, companies and

ommendations informed by surveys of

communities that they focused an en-

thousands of Maine employers. Making

tire Making Maine Work report on the

Maine Work has sharpened the focus of

System in 2010. The report noted the

elected officials on needed policy and

unique ability of UMS to increase pro-

investments, especially to sustain and

ductivity by investing in public higher

strengthen the talent development, re-

education, and called for increased State

search and innovation activity within

appropriations and private sector sup-

Maine’s public universities, led by the

port and partnership.

flagship UMaine.

“Education is directly linked to

In fact, the Chamber and MDF felt

productivity, particularly in the knowl-

UMS was so critical to the future of

edge-based economy,” the 2010 report read. “As a state, we need to make sure that every Maine person has the opportunity to reach their highest educational potential. This helps meet the needs of existing industry and will help attract new industry. An educated workforce drives innovation and generates new ideas that become the companies and jobs of the future.”

ENGINEERING THE FUTURE The report also recommended investments in the System’s statewide infrastructure, something that Connors has uniquely championed on behalf of the Chamber’s members in the years since.

In 2016, he headlined a Maine Engineering Workforce Summit, focused on addressing the shortage of engineers necessary to meet the needs of the state.

That event and Connors’ clarion call kicked off a year-long public awareness and advocacy campaign that ultimately led to approval in 2017 by the Maine Legislature and then-Governor Paul LePage of $50 million in public investment over 10 years for a new state-of-the-art engineering education facility at UMaine.

In the years since, subsequent state Legislatures and Governor Mills have sustained this support and in May 2022, appropriated additional debt service that will help modernize other engineering and related facilities at UMaine and across UMS to advance a goal to double the output of engineers and computing and information science professionals to meet the demands of Maine employers for world-class talent and innovation.

...and we’re just getting started. → → → →

Architecture Engineering Interior Design Landscape Architecture Design that Improves Lives ™

wbrcinc.com

ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

45

F E AT U R E S T O R Y

BOTTOM: Dana at UMFK addressing the room about the Making Maine Work initiative.

“Dana has long understood the impact of public

In 2018, Connors and the Chamber also partnered

higher education on workforce development and the

with UMS to achieve passage in the Legislature and ul-

Maine economy,” says Dana Humphrey, dean emeritus

timately from Maine voters for a $49 million investment

of the UMaine College of Engineering. “At the 2016

in the System’s statewide workforce development infra-

kickoff for the public campaign for the Ferland Engi-

structure.

neering Education and Design Center, Dana noted: ‘We

“Just like roads, bridges and wastewater, our public

are not putting out as many engineers as we need to.

university campuses are critical public infrastructure

The opportunity begs for more, the economy wants

essential to the state’s economic growth,” Connors said

more.’ Dana’s long legacy of advocacy, leadership and

at a press conference endorsing the ballot question.

vision have made an incredible impact in Maine.”

The 115,000 square-foot Ferland Center opened

It was the largest bond ever passed for public higher education in Maine history.

this fall, ushering in a new chapter in engineering ed-

“Over the years, we’ve turned to Dana to be a leader

ucation to better meet the needs of students and em-

and spokesperson for UMaine projects seeking public

ployers, including the innovation to advance research

support,” explained the Hon. Jeffery Mills, president and

and economic development.

CEO of the UMaine Foundation and a former legisla-

“ Over the years, we’ve turned to Dana to be a leader and spokesperson for UMaine projects seeking public support.”

— H O N . J E F F E R Y M I L L S , P R E S I D E N T A N D C E O O F T H E U M A I N E F O U N D AT I O N

tor. “His efforts have resulted in many favorable bond campaigns which have provided new facilities and other much-needed infrastructure for our public universities. Those resources are a critical companion to what we are able to do with philanthropy.”

When UMaine was set to be recognized by the Legislature in 2022 for achieving designation as an R1 research university – putting it among the top 146 of the nation’s 3,982 degree-granting postsecondary institutions, it was Connors who UMaine President Ferrini-Mundy asked to be at her side.

“Dana is the steak and the sizzle.

When he speaks, Dana not only brings the weight of the entire statewide business community with him, but the clout of his own credibility and gravitas. As a result, his endorsement is highly sought after, and has been invaluable to nearly every policy and investment victory we’ve secured at the State House in recent memory,” said Samantha Warren, University of Maine System director of government and community relations. “As impactful as his work in the public eye is, so too agement of emerging leaders, who like his namesake scholarship recipients, will carry on his legacy of service for generations to come. Thank you, Dana.”

46

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

PHOTO: MSCC ARCHIVES

is his patient mentorship and encour-

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O N E Vmainechamber.org/lead OICE MAINE / WINTER 2023 47

MAINE VOICES

I almost feel compelled to make a very dry martini, straight up with a twist!

I am one of the longest surviving members of the MACCE organization (since 2000), and I continue to be very proud of the strong support of the local and regional Chambers from Dana and the team at the Maine State Chamber. Their A Message from Eleanor J. Vadenais advocacy — One Voice Conference Calls, the Grass Roots Awareness Bulletins and Events, Business Day at the StatePresident/CEO, Wells Chamber of Commerce house, DC Fly-In, and Regional Breakfast Meetings keep us well informed of everything that is happening that will affect our member businesses.

Dana has always been readily available to everyone whether it’s to talk you down off the ledge on an issue that you may be having with your board or something larger that the State Chamber and their network has the bandwidth to handle.

48

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

PHOTO: ELEANOR VADENAIS

An Homage to Dana Connors

A S I S C R I B E T H I S H O M A G E * to my friend Dana Connors,

Case in point was an issue we had in Wells. In the late summer of 2008, it was revealed that Poland Spring Water Company had opened up a dialogue with the Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, and Wells Water District to accommodate large-scale water extraction. Upon hearing this, the Town of Wells enacted a moratorium on large-scale water extraction to allow time to write ordinances to address the concerns of the residents. Fast forward: a national “fringe” group (oops, did I say that?), under the guise of a local group “Save Our Water” petitioned the Wells Board of Selectmen to have a “Rights Based Ordinance” (which was, in essence, an anti-business ordinance that stripped all legal and constitutional rights away from all businesses in the Town of Wells) placed on the June Town Meeting warrant. The Board of Selectmen, on the advice of the Town Attorney, voted the petition down. “Save Our Water” went out and garnered enough signatures to hold a Special Town Meeting to adopt the Rights Based Ordinance — in 3-weeks time!

As the voice of the Wells business community, we knew we needed to do something and fast, but with limited resources and manpower, how could we get this done? Hello Dana!

Within days, Dana put a team together to assist us in the effort. An informational forum was scheduled, and mailings to businesses and residents were sent out. The efforts paid off as the ordinance was soundly defeated.

I truly believe that we would not have been as successful if it weren’t for our relationship with Dana and the Maine State Chamber and their advocacy for the local chambers.

I am a proud member of the Maine State Chamber Board of Directors, and it is all a result of the support and yes, love from Dana Connors. We’ll miss you at work Dana but I’m positive we’ll see each other on the golf course or getting together at dinner sipping those martinis!

Respectfully submitted, Eleanor J. Vadenais, President/CEO, Wells Chamber of Commerce *homage (noun): respect or reverence paid or rendered; something done or given in acknowledgment or consideration of the worth of another.

jobs

NEW JOBS ADDED WEEKLY

m i d ma i n ec ha m b e r .c om / j ob s ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

49

A Message from Gordon Smith

F O R M A N Y Y E A R S , I had the distinct plea-

sure of having Dana Connors as next door neighbor in East Winthrop, on the shores of beautiful Lake Cobbosseecontee. One could not ask for a better neighbor; polite, thoughtful, always willing to lend a hand. We shared responsibilities for a private road and a community dock, but fortunately had two engineers next door to do the heavy lifting.

During these years, I was the proud recipients of Dana’s elegant hand-me-down suits! How lucky was I, just having a tailor take an inch off the pants and I was good to go. Years later, Dana would sometimes see me at the State House wearing one of his suits and it always occasioned a comment. Given the quality of his attire, believe me, wearing his suits second-hand was nothing to be ashamed of!

I want to share one special memory. As ABOVE: Ladies Delight Lighthouse on Lake Cobbosseecontee Dana and I lead arguably the two most influ-

50

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

PHOTO: ADOBESTOCK.COM/THOMAS

MAINE VOICES

A Good Neighbor

ential professional/trade associations in the state, we always had a lot to chat about. And I will be immodest and say that we absolutely loved our work and were good at it. But when it came to technical projects around the Heritage Woods neighborhood, we simply lacked talent. This was perhaps best demonstrated late one fall when it was our responsibility to tow, by boat, the old wooden dock from our shore to an island in the lake where many of the docks would spend the winter. We tied the large dock to the back of the boat and proceeded south to the island. But before we got very far, we started to just go around in a circle. This went on for a considerable period of time. We considered all the possibilities for why we could not move south when one of the engineers, observing our predicament from shore, yelled out (loud enough for all the neighbors to hear), “pull up the anchor, you fools.”

I can’t think of anyone more deserving of a healthy and happy retirement. Best wishes my friend.

Gordon Smith, East Winthrop, Maine

Your dedication

matters.

Congratulations on Your Retirement Dana Connors!

Thank you for everything you have done in serving our communities and the state of Maine.

As we see it, what makes our communities stronger makes all of New England stronger.

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We’re proud to support the health of our community.

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ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

51

MAINE VOICES

Champion for Maine Businesses President & CEO, Maine & Co.

52

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

PHOTO: ANGELA ARNO

A Message from Peter DelGreco

E V E R Y D AY W H E N I A R R I V E AT W O R K ,

I see a large cardboard cut out of an article from the business section of the Bangor Daily News from Wednesday, September 20, 1995: Maine & Co. to make pitch for state. In this article, reporter John Hale writes about the formation of Maine & Co., an organization created to attract new investment to Maine from outside of Maine.

Chief among the architects of this new organization: Dana Connors, “president of the Maine Chamber of Commerce and Industry”.

Dana Connors worked with then Governor Angus King, former Governor Ken Curtis, Central Maine Power President David Flanagan, DECD Commissioner Thomas McBrierty, and a host of other Maine business leaders to create and fund this new organization, setting us on a path of sustainable growth and economic development success that has lasted over 25 years.

This article reminds me every day to be thankful for the business leaders in Maine that seek to put the best interests of the entire business community ahead of the individual interests of the member components. No one exemplified this more than Dana Connors.

Dana Connors has been on the Maine & Co. Board of Directors since that article was published. I’ve been honored and blessed to have access to Dana’s insights and experience since I was named president of this organization in 2012. For a young executive (at least, young at the time), it is impossible to overstate the importance and value of having access to someone like Dana. When a situ-

ation seemed to be spiraling out of control, Dana could always share an analogous point in Maine history, reminding everyone that while history may not repeat it itself, it often rhymes. You can find clues and wisdom in those rhyming moments.

It’s hard to imagine something happening in Maine’s economy that could shock Dana, though it was never too shocking to hear Dana utter an “Oh, Christ…” when something ridiculous occurred or was proposed.

These moments of candor were important, usually validating one’s instinct that something strange was truly afoot. While I regret that this is probably not the forum to call out some of the unusual policy ideas of the last 25+ years, I’m sure we can all remember an occasion or two when a proposed policy would make us all shake our heads. It was usually at that time that we would all pick up our phones, call Dana, and say, “This is crazy. How do we fix it?”

More often than not, Dana and the team at the Chamber would jump in and try to do just that: “fix it.” Under Dana’s leadership, the chamber consistently turned bad policy ideas into good ones (or at least less bad). Maine & Co. has successfully attracted numerous companies, thousands of new jobs, and millions of dollars new investment to Maine.

That doesn’t happen without Dana Connors and the work of his team.

As Dana begins his journey into an incredibly well-earned retirement, we should all remember that true economic development occurs when the business community is healthy and growing. Economic development is a team sport and since at least September 20, 1995, Dana Connors has been a leader on that team. Dana’s retirement will surely create a void in Maine’s economic development network. As we all stand in to pick up the slack from this upcoming void, we should feel calm and comfort knowing that we had such a great teacher in Dana Connors. He set a high standard for the business community to properly engage in economic development and we are all better prepared for the future because of it.

Best of luck in retirement Dana! Your positive impacts will be felt for generations.

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A BETTER TOMORROW

huberwood.com ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

53

F E AT U R E S T O R Y

Change for the Better Story by Sheila D. Grant

54

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

THE MAINE STATE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE GROWS, EVOLVES AND ADAPTS

H E M A I N E S TAT E C H A M B E R of Commerce, founded in 1889, is the state’s largest and most diverse business association, with about 5,000 business members. As President and CEO, Dana Connors oversees a broad range of activities, including advocacy efforts, economic and workforce develop-

PHOTOS: The State Chamber advocacy team and membership on the annual trip to Washington D.C.

ment initiatives and a wide variety of member services for the business community. Under Dana’s leadership, the organization has been recognized with the 2013 President’s Award from the Council of State Chambers and the Association of State Chamber Professionals for the most outstanding chamber in the U.S. and the 2013 Prosperity Project Star Achievement Award in recognition of excellence in the area of the Prosperity Project’s Communications and Materials.

The Maine State Chamber of Commerce has evolved over the nearly three decades that Dana Connors has served. When Dana came on board, he said he had heard that the organization was “very one-sided in its political leanings and that another organization had been created because of it. One of my first

PHOTOS: MSCC ARCHIVE

responsibilities was to consolidate the two, which we did,” he recalled.

Having served on Governor-elect Angus King’s transition team, Dana was then asked, in his role with the chamber, to work with the Maine Department of Economic and ComONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

55

F E AT U R E S T O R Y

THIS PHOTO & OPPOSITE: Dana Connors receives the prestigious Dirigo award in 2022.

PHOTO: ???

56

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

munity Development to create a busi-

They kind of do the things that bring the

port and mentorship,” said Deb Neuman,

ness-attraction company. Thus, in 1995,

community together — maybe through

who serves as both President/CEO of the

Maine & Company was born. A private,

an event, or some advocacy on behalf

Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce

nonprofit corporation with members

of their region. They do not have large

and as President of the Maine Associa-

and a board comprised of senior exec-

budgets so there is a lot of volunteerism

tion of Chamber of Commerce Exec-

utives from Maine’s top businesses and

in most chambers. That too is good, but

utives. “Dana has a way of making ev-

the president of the Maine State Cham-

I’ve always felt it’s a family and we need

eryone feel important and valued. I saw

ber of Commerce and the commissioner

to work together.”

this time and time again as he worked

of Maine’s DECD, Maine & Company’s

The COVID-19 pandemic saw Maine’s

with, coached, mentored and support-

services include real estate site searches,

chambers of commerce working even

ed local and regional chamber directors

data collection and analysis, incentives

more closely, he said.

through the MACCE. Dana always speaks

identification and valuation, site visit

“I am sure I speak for every chamber

of us like we are your family and treats us

coordination, workforce analysis and fi-

director in the state when I say that one

like family. He made each of us feel wel-

nancing coordination.

of the things I appreciate most about

come and supported from our very first

Dana is his accessibility, humility, sup-

day on the job.”

Dana said that as president, he has placed “a very high premium on work-

PHOTO: DAVE DOSTIE PHOTOGRAPHY

ing with local and regional chambers.

There’s nothing in the law that binds us, but everything in practice that binds us,” he said. “Very simply, the local and regional chambers, with few exceptions, are the heart and soul of a community or a region and the people in their communities have high expectations for them.

“ Very simply, the local and regional chambers, with few exceptions, are the heart and soul of a community or a region and the people in their communities have high expectations for them.”

— DANA CONNORS

ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

57

F E AT U R E S T O R Y

“Dana will never fully realize the positive impact he made on us, on our state and well beyond,” Deb said. “It is not over. Those of us who had the privilege to work with and learn from him will continue to carry on his good work, contributions and legacy. Dana left things better than he found them, including all of us in his chamber family.”

That family includes Dana’s “incredibly strong advocacy team, three people who are very, very good at the areas of policy that they represent, so we cover a lot of issues for the business community, maybe through a podcast or TV show, or a newsletter,” Dana explained. “Once a year, in February, we bring the business community and leadership from the legislature together at Sunday River without any real agenda other than to listen to each other and engage with each other, seeking understanding of the issues that are important to them. It’s so simple, but so significant! It establishes relationships that you see the results of in the legisla-

“ We work closely with the administration and the federal delegation. Information is extremely important and relationships mean everything, so we keep our eye on the prize, those things that matter.”

— DANA CONNORS

tive process.”

The Maine State Chamber of Commerce Board includes 85 people to provide the organization with a broader, more statewide take on the issues at hand.

“You won’t see that in a textbook or anywhere else,” Dana said. “We have an executive committee that is much small-

58

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

Deb said that leading a chamber of

well as operational issues. We also have

commerce, regardless of size or location,

the larger board that meets monthly

“is the best job ever! It can also be one of

when the legislature is in session.

the most challenging, as was proven these

“We take the issues that are in play at

last few years. I always appreciated Dana’s

that time in the legislature and we have

honesty and transparency when it came to

each of our advocacy teams or myself

not having all the answers. I recall a partic-

present on the issue, why we feel as we

ular phone call with Dana during the pan-

do, and to seek input from them, so that

demic when I shared the challenge I was

provides opportunities to share infor-

having crafting a budget for our chamber

mation and a rationale as to why we take

for the upcoming year. When Dana shared

a position for that 85 members and for

he was having the same challenge I felt

small businesses throughout the state.”

so much better! Dana also demonstrated

The chamber also takes on new ini-

and modeled the importance and power

tiatives “if we feel they serve the econ-

of working together, regardless of party

omy and the business community,” Dana

or politics, to find solutions to problems

said. “We work closely with the adminis-

and challenges,” she said.

tration and the federal delegation. Infor-

PHOTO: DAVE DOSTIE PHOTOGRAPHY

er and they deal with budget issues as ABOVE: Dana with special 2019 Annual Dinner Keynote Speaker, Patrick Dempsey.

mation is extremely important and relationships mean everything, so we keep our eye on the prize, those things that matter.”

The Maine State Chamber focuses on goals that will enhance prosperity for all Maine people, and often plays a prominent role in many state initiatives from health care reform to environmental and energy issues to tax reform and infrastructure concerns. The organization’s collaborative initiative with the Maine Development Foundation, the “Making Maine Work” series, is one example. The series focuses on key economic issues that will encourage investment in Maine and grow the economy. First released in 2010, the ongoing series has produced several books, with more reports planned in the future to further explore other crucial economic investment topics.

One project that stands out in Dana’s mind is when the chamber brought all five living U.S. Senators from Maine onto the same stage at an event a few years ago.

“It brought to your mind that here are five outstanding U.S. Senators — all from Maine — that made a national mark for our state,” he said. “It brought home to each and every one of us how fortunate we have been in this small state to have such outstanding leaders to represent us, who gained national attention by virtue of that leadership.”

During Dana’s tenure, the chamber also founded the Maine State Chamber

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59

F E AT U R E S T O R Y

Going forward, Dana feels that following the “10-year Economic Development Strategy for Maine” is crucial.

“That’s another initiative — it’s not ours — but it’s one I put in the highest priority,” he said. “The state, over years and years and years, tried very hard to create a strategic plan to guide us. If you don’t know where you’re going, any path will do.”

Maine also needs to be less humble, he said, instead touting our quality of people, products and places.

“To be humble is a marvelous gift, but when it comes to a state, we can’t afford to be humble. You’ve got to talk about your gifts.”

With those goals and more in mind, “in 2019, prior to the pandemic, which wasn’t on the minds of anybody, the state government and the administration, with the help of about 1,100 people, put together something that had not been achieved before, the ‘10-year Economic Development Strategy for Maine.’”

The plan provides a path, honing in on major issues that need to be addressed, including workforce and innovation, including new ways of doing things, new products and new ideas, Dana said.

“The plan also calls for key investments in broadband, childcare, housing, transportation — all the things that came to light as being ‘Oh, my God, yes, absolutely!’ issues. But without any warning, the pandemic was on our doorstep.”

As the world normalizes again, the 10-year plan provides hope for Maine’s economy, Dana said.

“I think in really quite positive terms because you have a road map put in place,” he said. “Mainers don’t give themselves enough credit. Maine is a special place.

Maine is resilient. We saw that during the pandemic.

Even in challenging times, we help our neighbors, respect each other and would do anything to help somebody in need. I feel good about the future. I think Maine has a promising future.”

Peter Gore has also been with the Maine State

60

of Commerce Education Foundation, which focuses on

Chamber of Commerce since 1994, initially serving as

workforce and education policy priorities.

Senior Government Affairs Specialist, and since 2008,

There are many successful past and ongoing initia-

as Executive Vice President.

tives that Dana says he will feel good about “for a pe-

“I was hired in 1994, and Dana right around that

riod of time when I walk away. But I’ll feel even better

same time, but before he could come in as President,

about the things I’ve done with others, the things done

Governor-elect Angus King swooped in and made him

as a team here. It’s the collaborative successes … the

the head of his transition team, which is quite an im-

chambers and the way we all work together, that I will

portant job for any governor. You’ve tasked him with

never forget. Even as old age mutes my memory, I won’t

assembling his commissioners, which will help run the

forget the people. I may forget some of the initiatives

state of Maine for the next four years,” Peter recalled.

and projects, but I will never forget the relationships,

“The Chamber has changed a lot in those 29 years,

the friends, the people I have come across that I have

and for the better, and I think that was because of Dana

grown to respect and appreciate.”

and the leadership he’s shown and the confidence he’s

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

PHOTOS: MSCC ARCHIVES

TOP: Chamber staff tours a member business ABOVE: Dana always enjoyed site visits with members of the Chamber.

instilled in the people that work for him

Providing energy for life.

to do their very best work, knowing we’re working for our members, the business

Unitil takes pride in making your home or business more comfortable for all you share it with.

community, and that in turn helps all the citizens of Maine,” Peter said.

The Chamber worked to bring people to the table to get their input, direction and ideas for the “10-year Economic Development Strategy for Maine” and “it was very exciting,” said Peter. “You had businesses that were very invested, and remain very invested in the success of

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the strategic plan.”

The most recent “Making Maine Work” publication incorporates elements of the strategic plan in its core, he said. The surveys and input meetings will inform chamber goals in many ways.

“We hope that by conducting this research, listening to what businesses and our members have to say and tying that to the strategic plan, we can come up with identifiable, verifiable, measurable goals and objectives to illustrate to the Maine legislature a document designed

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to help them with a blueprint of various elements of economic success,” he said.

“It’s that kind of thinking and foresight that Dana has had that has contributed to better public policy output, and again, that’s something that benefits all of us.”

The Maine State Chamber is a small organization with a big mission, “the Lit-

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meeting, something important that happens every year. This is also one of those years we are hosting a debate — we do senatorial and gubernatorial debates and this is a really important service we provide to our members, and an important partnership with Channel 6 that brings that statewide.”

The Annual Meeting, Dinner and Gubernatorial Debate will no sooner be over than the chamber will turn to planning its annual legislative over the horizon event, the annual leadership summit, and the legislative wrap-up.

ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

61

F E AT U R E S T O R Y

and for our members,” he said. “What it means is that, at Dana’s direction and leadership, we’ve become more visible, made it clear to members of the public and people who work in Augusta in public policy work, the importance of our members’ voices, our relevancy in discussion around public policy, the things that we provide in terms of services and benefits to our members, and, in general, the amount of information we can put into someone’s hands, whether they are a member or someone who’s following us from outside — but then they can decide what to do with it.”

Dana has made it a hallmark of the Maine State Chamber that “our core function is always going to remain advocacy in the State House and on the third floor, providing a voice to our business members that don’t want to, can’t make time to, or don’t know how to speak before the state legislature,” said Peter. “That is always going to be our core function.”

Dana will be missed, Peter said.

“I don’t know what the chamber was like before Dana took over, but I know what it has been like since then,” he said.

“I think we raised visibility and relevance through not only advocacy work but various initiatives, events and services we provide, and that’s meant a lot to our organization and its effectiveness.

“Dana’s presence in Augusta, and on the field of legislative policy devel-

“ I don’t know what the chamber was like before Dana took over, but I know what it has been like since then ...

I’m going to miss him.” — P E T E R G O R E

opment and enactment, and politics in general, I don’t think that impact can be overstated,” Peter said. “Dana is one of those people … he’s provided 50 years of public service to the people of the state

62

ticipate in because we think they might

reer has been about providing service to

doing various other events, webinars and

find them interesting and helpful. It’s a

people. He’s never been an elected of-

services that we offer to our members

12-months-a-year process, one thing af-

ficial, yet he’s probably been one of the

and to any business, for free, that help

ter another,” Peter said.

most important voices and faces in pub-

them understand public policy, laws

“You can look at it all individual-

that may have passed and laws pending,

ly on the calendar and think ‘Oh, that’s

“I’m going to miss him,” said Peter.

what’s going on at various state agencies

a lot of events,’ but a better way might

“We’ve worked together for a long time.

and within the executive branch, or just

be to look at it in totality — what do

We have a very special and unique rela-

events we invite our members to par-

those events mean for the organization

tionship and friendship.”

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

lic policy during that time.

PHOTO: DAVE DOSTIE PHOTOGRAPHY

of Maine in one form or another. His ca“Throughout the year we are also

To our leader and mentor

Dana Connors

A heartfelt thank you for your guidance, encouragement, and constant support. Thank you for inspiring us, believing in us, helping us succeed, and for teaching us that every challenge presents an opportunity to grow, learn, and do better.

You have shown us every day by word and example what it means to be a true leader, and that working hard, doing the right thing, putting Maine and Maine people above all else, and always being kind to ourselves and to one another, (and dressing to the nines!) are the keys to success in work and in life.

It has been an honor and privilege to work under your leadership.

With great respect and admiration, and best wishes for your next chapter, from all your staff - past and present - we will miss you!

ONE VOICE MAINE / WINTER 2023

63

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Congratulations to my wonderful husband, my best friend, and love of my life Luck is the phenomenon and belief that defines the experience of improbable events, especially improbably positive ones.

With this issue of OneVoice Maine, we celebrate a career, a lifetime, of a man who some might consider to be lucky, but luck often comes to a person - as it does in this case, as a result a lot of hard work, determination, and undying commitment. It comes with the right mix of qualities in one’s being.

And sometimes, the luck of one individual is shared amongst many – perhaps within a city, over many miles of infrastructure, across a department of over 2,000 employees, a board of directors and staff, countless business and legislative leaders, individuals, and friends … or as a father, a husband, and Bampa or Papa to 6 little ones!

As we celebrate Dana, this will resonate with many of you as it would for thousands of others around the state and even across this great nation.

• • • • • • • • •

For his ability to see the good in people, to encourage them to be their best For his insight and comprehension of complex, challenging and often controversial issues For his collaborative nature, knowing the significance of bringing people together For the generosity of his time to anyone who asked for it For his kind and thoughtful ways For his impeccable taste in clothing and always being the best dressed man For his sense of humor For sharing his wisdom through storytelling and quotes, we’ve all heard them For his vision and willingness to explore the possibilities

But most of all for his tireless leadership – a gift he has been blessed with and has used wisely and with great care.

For all of these things and so much more, please, join me in congratulating with your own experiences at heart, Dana F. Connors, for his countless contributions as a public servant to our great State of Maine, to his commitments to friendships and family - Dana…

“To Wonderful You & Lucky ME”

DCF lucky

Joyce LaRoche

me

Thank you, Mr. Connors We tip our hard hats to you, and to your years of dedicated service to Maine businesses. Thank you for being our partner in helping Maine power on every day.