On behalf of an appreciative University of Maine at Farmington, thank you, Greater Farmington, for your extraordinary friendship and favor as UMF celebrated in recent weeks two very special occasions.

At both the presidential inauguration on Oct. 4 and Charter Day on Oct. 9, the latter celebrating UMF’s founding 150 years ago as Maine’s first institution of public higher education, Farmington’s populace turned out in droves to share and deepen our joy.

We at UMF cherish the enduring bond we enjoy with this vibrant community. It was never more evident than when we gathered together on the steps of Merrill Hall to commemorate our shared history and give public thanks for our longstanding partnership, 150 years strong.

Let me add personal thanks, too, Greater Farmington, for your warm and continuing welcome to this newcomer president from away. How grateful and fortunate I am to join you here.

Kathryn A. Foster, Farmington, president, University of Maine at Farmington