President, University of Southern Maine

Dr. Jacqueline “Jackie” Edmondson brought to USM more than two decades of collective service and progressive leadership experience at the Pennsylvania State University, which currently enrolls over 90,000 students. She was a tenured professor and associate dean in the College of Education and later associate vice president and associate dean for undergraduate education, where she worked across 20 campuses to develop curriculum and programs to advance college access and affordability. From 2017 to 2022, she served as the Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer of Penn State Greater Allegheny, where nearly half of students are the first in their families to attend college.

Edmondson’s research focuses on education policy, rural education, teacher education and popular culture. In addition to publication in numerous academic journals, she has authored eight books on subjects ranging from education policy to American music.

In her first three years at USM, Edmondson stabilized enrollments and budgetary challenges. She led the continuation of the Portland Campus Transformation, which includes the Crewe Center for the Arts which will be completed in August 2025. She has worked closely with the USM Foundation to successfully raise more than $30 million during her tenure as president.

Her experiences as a low-income student, who, at 17, became the first in her family to attend college, have driven her dedication to fostering a sense of belonging for all students, and ensuring they have the services and support they need to realize their full potential. She also has a deep commitment to ensuring that all students have meaningful experiences with the arts and humanities.

Edmondson lives in the president’s residence on the Gorham campus with her husband, Michael and her dog, Elbow. They enjoy spending time with their three grandsons in Vermont.