PRESIDENT CASSIDY

President of Southern Maine Community College

It’s hard to believe that we are already well into 2023. Our South Portland and Brunswick campuses returned to a normal fall semester start, and the energy we feel from this return brings us hope for the future.

Situated on the shores of Casco Bay, and home to one of the country’s most beautiful college campuses, SMCC provides countless opportunities for students to gain job skills or to start their college career, and for businesses looking for support in training employees.

SMCC offers eight pathways of focus with a broad range of programs and training designed to meet students’ needs. With over 65 offerings from short-term training to certificate and degree programs, and courses at our two campuses, online, and at community locations, students can choose a program that fits their life. Whether they enter the workforce or continue their studies after completing their education, SMCC is here to set them up for success.

It is an exciting time at SMCC with Maine’s Free Tuition Scholarship available to recent high school graduates. However, the need for financial support for both those who do and do not qualify for the Free College Scholarship is noteable. Students needs assistance not only with tuition and fees, but with the costs for housing, books, supplies, child care, food, and other daily essentials. Additionally, the need for capital improvements to ensure our on-campus facilities are updated, expanded, and designed to support instructional needs is essential.

That is where your support of the SMCC Foundation plays a vital role. Whether you are a former students, family member, business owner, educator or philanthropist you all walk with us in our journey to help transform lives and communities. Your continued gracious support allows us to welcome, prepare and inspire all to learn, succeed, and lead.

Joe Cassidy

Mark Duval

Chair of the SMCC Foundation

As Chair of the Southern Maine Community College Foundation Board, I am so proud and excited by the recent successes of the Foundation. In 2022 alone, SMCC awarded nearly $715,000 to just over 330 students in scholarships to help support their educational endeavors. Those funds directly impact students with scholarships, emergency stipends, and technology. Our annual Light on the Point event successfully raised funds while honoring the outstanding work done by our community partners, alums and SMCC staff.

Through endowments and donations towards scholarships, the Annual and SeaWolves Athletics Club, capital improvements and more, our donors significantly impact our students’ lives, families, and communities. As a local business leader and President of the Keystone Property Group, I have seen firsthand what the support from area businesses, community supporters, College alumni, faculty, and staff means to our students. I offer my sincere thanks to all of you.