Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) is recognizing two students whose leadership, service and academic achievement have made a lasting impact on the College community.
Kamy Dube, 2026 SMCC Student of the Year
Kamy Dube has been named SMCC’s Student of the Year, and Jae Howell has been selected as the College’s Distinguished Service Award recipient. Both will be honored at the 2026 Commencement Ceremony on May 17. Dube was recognized April 23 at the Maine Community College System Student of the Year event at Maple Hill Farm Inn.
“Students like Kamy and Jae represent the very best of Southern Maine Community College,” President Kristen Miller said. “Their leadership, resilience and commitment to others reflect the power of community and the impact our students have on campus and beyond.”
Dube’s experience at SMCC reflects a transformation defined by leadership and connection. A first-generation college student, she began her time at the College feeling disconnected but quickly became one of the most influential student leaders on campus.
She has served as president of Phi Theta Kappa, the Student Senate and the Business Club, while also working as a resident assistant and TRIO peer leader. She has led and supported numerous service projects and campus initiatives.
Under her leadership, SMCC’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter achieved 5-star status and advanced major initiatives, including The Pack, a campuswide effort focused on building a sense of belonging through events, programming and a student-run podcast. Through Student Senate, she helped lead efforts that resulted in the installation of a Peace Pole, upgrades to student laundry facilities and the creation of more than 10 new student organizations.
Dube has maintained a 3.8 GPA as a double major and has been recognized as both a Worthington Scholar and a George Mitchell Institute Scholar. Her impact extends beyond her roles, as she has consistently worked to support her peers and strengthen the campus community.
Faculty, staff and students describe her as professional, compassionate and committed to helping others succeed. Her leadership has helped create a more connected and welcoming environment across the College.
Howell, a student in the Marine Science program, is being recognized for his commitment to service, leadership and community engagement.
Jae Howell, SMCC Distinguished Service Award recipient
In addition to maintaining strong academic performance and earning Dean’s List honors each semester, Howell has contributed to the College through mentorship and peer support. He has volunteered as a guest speaker in Oceanography courses and has helped create inclusive and welcoming environments for fellow students.
Beyond campus, Howell serves as the Beach Profiling Program coordinator with Maine Sea Grant, where he leads volunteer efforts that support coastal conservation initiatives across the state. His work contributes valuable environmental data and engages community members in hands-on learning.
Howell has also mentored youth through STEM programs and supported staff and counselors at Chewonki. His efforts extend the impact of his work across Maine’s environmental and educational communities.
His path reflects resilience and determination, having overcome personal and financial challenges while remaining focused on service and leadership. Through his work, Howell has consistently supported others and strengthened the communities he serves.
A member of Phi Theta Kappa, Howell exemplifies the spirit of the Distinguished Service Award. He will graduate in May and continue his academic journey at Bowdoin College this fall as a junior, earning a full scholarship. Bowdoin admits a very limited number of transfer students each year and has only recently expanded opportunities for community college applicants, making his achievement especially notable.
Learn more about the 2026 Commencement at www.smccME.edu/commencement.