By Marissa Bodnar, Contributing Writer
Katherine “Kathy” Garrard, a former editor in chief of the Gorham Times, recently joined the University of Southern Maine’s Board of Visitors (BOV) following confirmation of her appointment by the University of Maine System Board of Trustees on July 13.
About the appointment, Garrard said, “I am honored to join the University of Southern Maine Board of Visitors and grateful to President Edmondson for this opportunity. I look forward to contributing to the Board’s mission of strengthening connections between the university and the broader community and provide a Gorham perspective to help ensure the voice and interested of the community are part of the conversation. USM is an extraordinary asset to Maine, and its Gorham campus plays a vital role in the town’s economic vitality, cultural life, and sense of community.”
The Board of Visitors is a group of community volunteers who advise and support USM on a range of issues and initiatives. Members serve as ambassadors for the University, help strengthen community connections, and provide perspective on regional needs and opportunities.
Garrard brings extensive experience in communications and stakeholder relations, with a career focused on helping organizations build relationships, engage their communities, and communicate effectively. She is also deeply connected to Gorham, where she has lived for 35 years. She and her husband, Steve, raised their three daughters in the community they continue to call home.
Garrard is the co-founder and president of the Gorham Village Alliance, supporting efforts to promote a vibrant downtown and strong local business community. Her longtime involvement in Gorham, along with her professional experience building partnerships and connections, will bring a valuable local perspective to the board and help strengthen the relationship between USM and its host community.
Garrard earned a bachelor’s degree from Northeastern University and is a graduate of Leadership Maine, a statewide program that develops leaders committed to strengthening Maine’s future.
USM President Jacqueline Edmondson shared the following comment:
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Kathy Garrard to the University of Southern Maine’s Board of Visitors. As a dedicated 35-year resident of Gorham, Kathy deeply understands the heart of our local community. Her background in stakeholder relations and her commitment to fostering collaboration make her an invaluable voice as we continue strengthening connections between USM and the communities we serve.”