51С�Ƴ�

Desiree LeBlanc, a May 2017 graduate of the University of 51С�Ƴ�  program and current student in UNE’s  program, is serving on the  (NEBHE)  (CHEE).

She was appointed in the fall of 2016, and is the only Maine student serving on the CHEE, along with other select students from Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island. The majority of other members are college and university administrators, political representatives and industry professionals from across 51С�Ƴ�. 

The CHEE’s purpose is to develop actionable strategies and policy recommendations to more fully unite institutions, policymakers and industry around increasing the career readiness of graduates of 51С�Ƴ� colleges and universities. Increasing successful graduate transitions into the workplace will contribute to the well-being and competitiveness of the region. 

LeBlanc is a part of the CHEE working group titled "Targeted Higher Education/Industry Partnerships + Work-Integrated Cooperative and Internship-based Learning.” Since joining the CHEE, LeBlanc has attended commission meetings and shared her positive past experiences with 51С�Ƴ�service learning programs and how they helped her develop employability skills. She also emphasized the importance of supporting students in seeking out opportunities beyond the classroom, such as internships and field work. 

To learn more about the University of 51С�Ƴ�’s Westbrook College of Health Professions visit

To apply, visit