Lee Francis: Krissy Miner Memorial Award for Remarkable M.Ed./Ed.S. Pupil in Instructional Leadership
The Krissy Miner Memorial Award for Excellent M.Ed./Ed.S. College student in Academic Leadership is presented to a master’s or academic professional student in academic management who has shown an affinity for their own management development as an educator. The recipient understands the cognitive, interpersonal and intrapersonal factors of their own management advancement to improved meet the requirements of students, family members and stakeholders in their neighborhood. The 2024 recipient of this award is Lee Francis. A member of the Penobscot Nation from Indian Island, Maine, Francis is principal of the Indian Island College. You can browse a Q&A with Francis underneath.
What variation has UMaine designed in your daily life and in assisting you attain your plans?

Participating in the educational leadership cohort has been 1 of the ideal activities in my daily life. Skillfully, the program has deepened my awareness and knowing of leadership and equipped me with instruments to be effective and far better well prepared to provide the young children of my tribe, other Wabanaki tribes and all those from my school local community. The stage of individual progress has been sizeable as perfectly. Engagement in self-reflection throughout this application has reaffirmed my values, strengthened a constructive way of thinking, and presented clarity with respect to my relationships with many others. The operate has influenced me to be a improved human being in each and every component of my existence.
Have you had an experience at UMaine that has improved or shaped the way you see the world? If so, notify us about it.
All through the to start with couple weeks in this method, I understood I experienced definitely located my niche and felt a deep appreciation for the material, cohort and instructors. The knowledge I have gained not only lets me to greater understand the planet all around me, it has ready me to be a more powerful advocate, make good contributions and facilitate expansion.
Have you worked closely with a professor or mentor who built your UMaine working experience superior? If so, tell us about them.
Two instructors have been very instrumental in my results as a UMaine pupil. Even though operating on my undergraduate diploma, Jane Wellman-Minimal grew to become the instructor I leaned on for assistance and support. She acknowledged the difficulties I had as a nontraditional student with a small baby and supplied me equitable opportunities to understand and demonstrate my knowledge. Her guidance never ever wavered and continued into my skilled job. As a graduate university student, Maria Frankland has presented me with ongoing help and direction. She has encouraged me through the system and my initial years as a novice principal. For the duration of times of question or fear, she has reminded me of my strengths and talents. She respects the appreciate I have for my men and women and supports my eyesight of building a change in tribal communities.
What guidance do you have for incoming graduate learners to help them get off to the most effective start academically?
Initial and foremost, think in you. Create a guidance community. Discover how to locate balance between your professional and personalized responsibilities. Make it possible for your self grace. Hardly ever give up.
Why UMaine?
I concluded my undergraduate system at UMaine and knew I would uncover what I necessary at this institution. The possibility to sign up for a cohort and shift by the system with other folks was also quite captivating.
Favourite UMaine memory:
Obtaining my acceptance letter to the instructional leadership Ed.D. plan was interesting!
Specific Thank You information:
My gratitude goes to my loved ones for all of their help. I am grateful for all of my instructors and close friends I have designed through this system. I am also grateful for my faculty workers and all of our learners. Kci woliwoni!
