University of New England

John Tumiel of Waterboro, associate dean in the University of New England's College of Arts and Sciences, has been awarded The Kenneally Cup for distinguished academic service. The award was presented at the University Campus's annual Student Awards Ceremony on April 26, 2005.

Tumiel joined UNE in 1984 as assistant professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy. He taught for eight years before moving to his current administrative position. His responsibilities as associate dean include administrative oversight of the college's academic policies and coordination of academic advisement for all students.

The Kenneally Cup is named in honor of a long-time member of the University community, Raymond Kenneally, Ph.D. It is the highest honor the college may present to a member of the university community. During a notable and distinguished 26-year career at UNE and the former St. Francis College, Kenneally served as faculty member and as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. He retired in 1992. The University honors his legacy with this award.

Citation
The award was presented by Jacque Carter, Ph.D., dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Dean Carter read the following citation:

"Dean Tumiel spends an extraordinary amount of time working with individual students-advising them, mentoring them, and helping them to find their way when they experience tough times or have suffered from their lack of ability or their own lack of judgment. There are countless students that John has taken 'under his wing' and ushered through the University's systems. One can observe these success stories during fall homecoming weekend when students from each of the returning classes seek him out to thank him for his support and friendship.

"Another area of service is his attendance and engagement at numerous student events. He is often at athletic events supporting our student athletes. He attends lock-in, coffeehouses, jamfests, etc. He sets a high bar for faculty engagement and his sincere interest in the students and their programs is refreshing and valued.

"His work with faculty on the first-year experience and the advising system has been persistent and valuable. Faculty often seek him out to discuss how best to handle unusual situations whether in the classroom setting or with individual students.

"John is appreciated by students, faculty, staff and administration for his commitment, enthusiasm, and sense of humor, qualities that make an encounter with him always memorable. He fosters a sense of community and inspires others by example to be better teachers and University citizens.

"It is with great pleasure that I present this award to John Tumiel!"

A separate award ceremony was held for the University's Westbrook College Campus in Portland.

(Press release issued May 4, 2005)