Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) Foundation proudly hosted the 2025 A Light on the Point on Friday, November 7, in the Oceanview Dining Hall on SMCC’s South Portland Campus. This signature
annual event brought together alumni, faculty, staff, business leaders, and community partners for an evening dedicated to celebrating excellence, service, and the shared commitment to student success.
A Light on the Point serves as the SMCC Foundation’s largest fundraising event of the year, and generates critical support for student. This support includes scholarships, emergency assistance, and essential resources all of which help ensure every student has the tools they need to thrive and complete their education. Guests enjoyed an evening of connection and celebration, with time to socialize, reflect, and recognize individuals and organizations whose profound and lasting impact on the College and the broader community.
PHOTO GALLERY | https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCAAFF
Attendees were welcomed with culinary offerings prepared by SMCC’s Culinary Arts students alongside Chefs Bo Byrne and Tony Poulin, including a lobster dish that recently won “People’s Choice” at Harvest on the Habor. To highlighted just one of many hands-on learning experiences that define the College. The evening also featured the Foundation’s awards platform, recognizing five outstanding honorees whose dedication exemplifies SMCC’s mission.
2025 Award Recipients
Outstanding Alumnus Award
Leah Mitchell, SMCC Class of 2005
A paramedic for more than 20 years, Mitchell is a respected leader in Maine’s Emergency Medical Services community and continues to make a meaningful impact through her service and leadership.
Outstanding Faculty Award
Kevin Sweeney, English Department Chair
SMCC’s longest-tenured faculty member, Sweeney began his career in 1983 when the College was Southern Maine Vocational Technical Institute. A steadfast advocate for students and colleagues, he has played a vital role in shaping the academic and institutional culture of the College for more than four decades.
Outstanding Staff Award (Co-Recipients)
AJ Burton, Staff Advisor and Men’s Basketball Assistant Coach
Since joining SMCC in 2016, Burton has supported students in the Business and Hospitality pathway while also serving as a trusted mentor to student-athletes.
Kalena Brady, Health Sciences Pathway Advisor
Originally hired as a Free College pathway advisor, Brady is known for her tireless dedication to student support, guiding learners through complex processes with care, encouragement, and humor.
Outstanding Business Award
Casco Bay Bluefin Bonanza, represented by Jane and Bob Humphrey
Under their leadership, the Casco Bay Bluefin Bonanza has become a highly successful fundraising effort benefiting campuses across the Maine Community College System, with SMCC as its largest beneficiary. Their commitment also includes an endowed scholarship established in memory of Lindsey Withers, creating a lasting legacy of support for students.
President’s Award
Althea Puffer, SMCC Facilities
Puffer’s journey as a student, alumna, and now employee reflects extraordinary resilience and determination. Her story is a powerful example of what is possible when individual resolve is met with a supportive campus community.
Reflecting on the evening, SMCC President Kristen Miller shared:
“A Light on the Point reminds us that the strength of SMCC lies in its people—those who teach, serve, give, and lead with purpose. Each of this year’s honorees represents the very best of our College and our community. Their stories inspire us, and the generosity shown through this event directly strengthens our ability to support students and change lives.”
To learn more about how you can support SMCC and the life-changing work of their Foundation, visit www.smccME.edu/foundation. Your support helps ensure that every SMCC student has access to the resources they need to thrive.