Hello everyone, I’m Emma Roose, and I’m approaching 10 years of service at the University of Southern Maine.
For my first 9 years, I worked as an Academic Advisor supporting our undergrad students. This past September, I transitioned into a new role as Senior Associate Director of Early College Success. In this position, I oversee the USM Early College program, which allows Maine high school students to earn college credit at little to no cost. Because this work involves so many stakeholders, from parents and counselors to university faculty, a key part of my role is serving as a bridge between the K–12 and postsecondary worlds. I still have one foot in advising, as our program encourages students to select their courses with intention and purpose. As part of a larger UMS/DOE initiative, this program is a powerful example of all seven campuses working together to support students across the state.
I joined UMPSA because I have deep respect for the role labor unions have played in our country’s history, and I believe advocacy through collective bargaining remains one of the most promising avenues for change. As we know, the work of hourly and salaried staff across the System is integral to the functioning and success of our universities, yet our efforts and living/working conditions are often overlooked by those at the top. With this, I feel a sense of responsibility to look out for my fellow staff members, and joining the union has allowed me to channel my words and values into something bigger than myself. The more people who join the union, the stronger our voice becomes!