Jacqueline Edmondson on Transforming Education Through Innovation

Jacqueline Edmondson on Transforming Education Through Innovation At the heart of every thriving community lies a shared commitment to education. For University of Southern Maine (USM) President Jacqueline Edmondson, this belief is more than a mission statement—it’s a guiding principle that shapes her leadership and strategic vision for one of Maine’s most vital public institutions.

When construction crews began renovations on USM’s historic Academy Building in 2024, they unearthed something unexpected: student writings from the 1800s. Scribbled notes, playful sketches, and casual conversations between classmates revealed that while tools have evolved, the essence of student life remains unchanged.

“To me, it’s a reminder that learning has always been a deeply human experience,” says Edmondson. “Whether you're passing notes in the margins of a textbook or texting between classes, students are driven by connection, curiosity, and creativity.”

For Edmondson, the real treasure wasn’t the artifacts—it was what they represented: a legacy of community investment in education. The Academy Building stands not just as a structure but as a symbol of collective will. “This land was gifted because the people of Gorham believed in education,” she reflects. “My hope is that if the university weren’t here today, the community would still come together to build it again.”

That enduring belief fuels her approach to leadership—one rooted in empathy, innovation, and a relentless focus on student outcomes.

Leading Through Transformation

Edmondson arrived at USM in 2022 after more than two decades at Penn State University, where she served in various academic and administrative roles, including Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer of the Greater Allegheny campus. Her transition to USM marked a new chapter—not only for her career but for the institution itself.

“I’ve always been curious about how universities function differently,” she explains. “The University of Maine System operates in a unique way compared to Penn State. It was an opportunity to learn and grow, and to contribute to a different kind of educational ecosystem.”

Her arrival coincided with a pivotal moment in USM’s evolution. The Portland Campus Transformation, already underway, aimed to modernize infrastructure and enhance student life with new facilities like the McGoldrick Center for Career and Student Success, a 580-bed residence hall, and a vibrant new quadrangle.

“These aren’t just buildings,” she emphasizes. “They’re investments in the student experience. We’re creating spaces where students can thrive academically, socially, and professionally.”

Under her leadership, USM has made bold moves to align its offerings with the needs of today’s learners. With over 7,000 students across its Gorham, Portland, and Lewiston campuses—and a robust online program—USM is meeting students where they are, both geographically and technologically.

A Strategic Vision Rooted in Access and Innovation

One of Edmondson’s core priorities is ensuring that higher education remains accessible and relevant. As a first-generation college student herself, she understands firsthand the transformative power of earning a degree.

“Education opened doors for me that I never imagined were possible,” she says. “I want to make sure that opportunity exists for every student who walks through our doors.”

She champions a multidisciplinary approach, encouraging students to engage with the arts and humanities alongside STEM fields. “We’re not just preparing students for jobs—we’re preparing them to be critical thinkers, ethical leaders, and engaged citizens.”

Innovation is also central to her strategy. Whether it’s integrating experiential learning, expanding online offerings, or fostering partnerships with local industries, Edmondson is committed to ensuring that USM evolves with the times.

“We can’t operate the same way we did 20 years ago,” she notes. “Our students are navigating a complex, fast-changing world. We owe it to them to offer an education that’s just as dynamic.”

Leading with Purpose in Uncertain Times

Leading a public university during a period of economic uncertainty and shifting enrollment trends requires both vision and resilience. Edmondson approaches these challenges with a data-driven yet human-centered mindset.

“You have to be strategic, but you also have to stay grounded in your mission,” she says. “Our mission is to serve students. Everything we do—budget decisions, program development, campus improvements—has to tie back to that.”

She’s also focused on building a culture of collaboration across the university. “Higher education can sometimes be siloed,” she observes. “I want us to break down those walls. When departments and campuses work together, we can accomplish so much more.”

That collaborative spirit is evident in USM’s community partnerships. By working closely with local businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies, the university is creating pathways for student internships, research opportunities, and workforce development.

A Legacy in the Making

Looking ahead, Edmondson envisions USM as a model for what public higher education can achieve. “We’re proving that you can be innovative, inclusive, and financially responsible all at the same time,” she says.

She’s also committed to sustainability—both in terms of environmental impact and institutional resilience. “We’re investing in our future, not just through buildings, but through programs, people, and partnerships that will stand the test of time.”

For Edmondson, leadership is about more than managing an institution—it’s about shaping a legacy. “I want every student who graduates from USM to feel like their experience was meaningful,” she says. “That’s what drives me every day.”

As she continues to guide USM through its next chapter, Jacqueline Edmondson remains steadfast in her belief that education is not just a pathway—it’s a promise. And at USM, that promise is being fulfilled, one student at a time.

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