PHOTO GALLERY (Second Ceremony, 2:30 p.m.)

ORONO, Maine-- The University of Maine is proud to announce that 75 student-athletes graduated today in two ceremonies. This group of student-athletes includes those who completed degree requirements in December 2007, May 2008 and August 2008.

The following are quotes from student-athletes about graduating and their experiences at the University of Maine.

Kristen Healy (field hockey): "In regards to graduation and what my feelings are like, I would have to say that it's a whirlwind of emotions. I am shocked to find that my parents, once again, were right when they said, `Time flies--before you know it you'll be done with college and onto the next chapter of life.' I am sad that these years have flown by and I feel like the good times have just begun. But I am excited to be at this point in my life and happy that I got through some challenging times and created some great memories with the best people I have ever encountered. There's no doubt in my mind that everyone who has touched my life at this university and all the things I have learned while being here will remain a huge part of the rest of my life."

Courtney Francis (women's track and field): "I am so excited about graduating from UMaine! The past four years here have been an undescribable experience in both athletics and academics. UMaine has so much to offer, and I think that anyone should be proud to have a degree from here. As far as athletics, I got everything I wanted to accomplish at UMaine! Going to a Division I school was my dream when I was in high school, and the UMaine Track and Field team has made my time here so rewarding and exciting with the high level of competition. I always tell everyone that I can't imagine making it through college being a regular student, because everyone (coaches, teammates, people in the athletic department) has helped me, and made my experience as a student and an athlete that much more enjoyable!! I'm hoping that I can take my UMaine Broadcast Journalism degree and go far in my career."

Kaimondre Owes (men's basketball): "It feels awesome. I'm glad I had the opportunity to finish college. I think this is one of my biggest accomplishments thus far. I'm very proud to be graduating from the University of Maine, it's a big school. I'm just glad that Coach Woodward gave me the opportunity to come here, and I'm finally reaching one of my goals so far."

Pam Patterson (women's ice hockey): "It is exciting, yet sad... I have made so many good memories over my last three years here. It's hard to leave behind a program and teammates that you got so close to and care so much for. It's like leaving behind a family. On the other hand though, it is exciting because I don't know what is to come. While my plans are to attend graduate school, most likely here at the University of Maine, it will definitely be a new experience without being a direct part of the ice hockey program. I am hoping to find new opportunities that will keep me involved as I loved my time spent here as a student-athlete. I am proud to receive a undergraduate degree from the University of Maine, and look forward to getting my masters here as well."

Brian Andre (men's basketball): "I'm proud to be a Maine alumni. I'm going to miss this place a lot."

Jamaal Forman (football): "I've been blessed. I can't describe how happy I am to graduate and how excited I am to start the next chapter in my life. I've been through so much in my life and to be graduating with a Sociology degree and a Child/Family Relations and Human Development degree is something I am truly proud of and is something that no one can take away from me. I've worked so hard all my life to accomplish this goal, and it got done through hard work, dedication and perseverance. Though truthfully, I don't think I would have done it without people saying I couldn't. On the field and in the classroom I pushed myself to be the best I can be. I have battled many obstacles to be the man I am today, and I am proud to be who I am. I will never forget the teammates and classmates I've bonded with, and the key faculty like Christine Kerluke, (my athletic advisor who sometimes was my life counselor). These bonds I will never forget. I've been blessed and I am very excited to graduate and start the next chapter in the Book of Jamaal Forman. I'm telling you it's going to be a best seller. And to those that come after me don't let anyone say you can't. I accept my shortcomings because they will make me whole. Thank you all."

Giacomo Brunino (men's soccer): "I've been waiting for this day for a long time. I'm just going to enjoy it, see what happens after that."

Candace Coville (women's swimming and diving): "I'm very excited to be graduating. I'm a little scared because it's been four years, but I'm ready to take the next step. I'm looking forward to the future and working in the real world. I've had a great experience here the past four years. It's been great especially with athletics, it's a great honor and it was amazing, I had such a great time."

Christie Mosley (field hockey): "It's been a great experience and I think I'm ready for the real world, so here I come. I met some of the greatest people that I will ever meet and I've had support from wonderful people and I wouldn't change it. The girls are the best and the staff is great here so it's been great."