FARMINGTON – Exactly what is the relationship between higher education and the economy? How might Maine’s public university system help grow industry and commerce in the state?
On February 18, 2011 at the University of Maine at Farmington’s Olsen Student Center, Laurie Lachance, president and CEO of the Maine Development Foundation, and Dana Connors, president of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce will present, “Making Maine Work: The Role of Maine’s Public University System.”
Richard Pattenaude, chancellor of the University of Maine System, will be a special guest at this event.
This report comes from a broader project undertaken by the Maine Development Foundation and the Maine State Chamber of Commerce “Making Maine Work: Critical Investments for the Maine Economy” which offers, “focused recommendations around key economic issues that will encourage investment in Maine and grow the economy. It reflects the input of hundreds of experts and the voices of more than a thousand Maine business leaders.”
The discussion will include close scrutiny of the public University System’s contribution to the Maine economy, the investments necessary to continue its role and what else can be done to maximize its potential.
The forum is free and open to the public and includes a complimentary breakfast. In the case of inclement weather and cancellation, the event will be postponed until February 25.
The Western Maine Legislative Caucus series is sponsored by the Western Mountains Alliance, University of Maine Farmington, Regional District 9, the Franklin Community Health Network, Western Maine Community Action, Greater Franklin Development Corporation, and Mission at the Eastward. For background information on the topic or more information on the forum, contact the Western Mountains Alliance at (207) 778-3885 or visit www.westernmountainsalliance.org.
