Melik’s Memo: March 2025
I recently came across a Gallup poll revealing that cost is the leading reason students pause their college studies. That struck a chord.
At Unity, we’re committed to making higher education affordable, inclusive, and transformative. That commitment starts with crafting a new narrative for higher education where institutions don’t merely impart knowledge but evolve alongside learners throughout their lives. This narrative comes to life when we recognize that technological advancements create new touchpoints that invite continuous learning. One example of this is our newly launched Learning Market.
When we start to talk about (and understand) education as something that isn’t a finite product, we become active participants in finding ways to invite more people into the environmental conversation by actively meeting them where they are in life. I hope the below announcements and stories demonstrate how this work comes to life, every day, at Unity. Read on!
Unity is First in Nation with “Una”
Unity has cemented its place at the forefront of innovative education, becoming the first university in the U.S. to go live with Agentforce, Salesforce’s AI-powered system. Designed to reimagine how students access resources and stay connected with Unity, our new AI-powered terrier “Una” is the driving force behind our next generation of digital support. By leveraging Salesforce’s deeply unified platform, we will be able to quickly address standard questions while freeing our team to engage more deeply with students.
This balanced approach ensures that every conversation is more meaningful, as some learners can rely solely on Una for immediate answers, while others benefit from the combined efforts of both Una and our dedicated staff. It’s an exciting step forward as we work to redefine what it means to be a truly modern, environmentally conscious university.
Unity Leads in Innovation, Access, and Impact
We have been named the #1 private university nationwide in the 2024 Social Mobility Index, a testament to our commitment to providing accessible, transformative education for students from all backgrounds.
Meanwhile, Mainebiz recently featured another Unity first: Maine’s only fully online Environmental Engineering program suite. Designed to meet industry demand, these programs connect students directly to careers in sustainability, infrastructure, and environmental problem-solving.
Doubling Down on Access
Our “$60 for 60 Years” campaign aims to raise $6 million in scholarships, one $60 gift at a time, to support students with financial need.
100,000 donors can help break down even more barriers and empower the next generation of environmental leaders. Will you join us?
Alumni in the Spotlight
Unity graduates make an impact whether in classrooms, across borders, or deep in the heart of nature. One such alum is Allyson Gilbert ’23. Allyson has earned a prestigious Fulbright Scholarship, an impressive achievement that highlights our supportive network and the ways we empower students to become global change-makers, ready to collaborate across borders and disciplines. She also happens to be the 2024 Sagadahoc County Teacher of the Year. How cool is that?! Her journey starts in August, and you’re invited! Follow Unity on Facebook and LinkedIn to tag along.
Caring for the environment and each other doesn’t stop at graduation. Marc Goldberg ’94 embodies Unity’s core values in his newly released book, sharing stories of growth and stewardship inspired by his time among the trees. You can read all about Mark’s journey here.
Student Stories: Meet Xavier
A full-time professional, touring musician, father of two, and future wildlife conservationist, Xavier’s turning a lifelong passion into reality through Unity’s flexible Distance Education program. Click here to learn how he’s advancing his career without pausing his life.
Dorothy Quimby Library Finds a New Home
From cutting-edge research tools to inclusive collaboration spaces, this state-of-the-art facility is the perfect place for students and faculty to explore, innovate, and connect. The Dorothy Quimby Library honors Dot Quimby’s memory and ensures her spirit of discovery lives on for future generations of Unity students to come.
Upcoming Commencement
While the ground is covered in snow here in Maine, many of us are dreaming of spring and our upcoming commencement. As a reminder, this year’s distinguished commencement speaker is famed astrophysicist, Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson.
Thank you for being a part of our vibrant network and for your dedication to making a positive impact on our world.
For our alumni, one of the most powerful ways you can help us grow is by sharing your story. By telling us about your experiences, achievements, and the paths you’ve taken since graduation, you inspire current students and fellow alumni alike. Tell us your story!
As always, please contact me at president@unity.edu, with any questions or comments you may have.
