Formed in 2005 by nine former Mitchell Scholars, the Alumni Council — known as MIAC — works to provide resources to Mitchell Institute Alumni and current Scholars, and to support the Institute’s programs, fundraising, and broader mission. Today that community has grown into a statewide network of leaders committed to giving back what was given to them.
We are grateful to outgoing President Andy Estrada and outgoing Vice President Kayla Girardin for their extraordinary leadership and service, and to Trevor Lyford, who is stepping down to focus on his medical residency. Their contributions to the council and the broader Mitchell community have been immeasurable.
Incoming Leadership
Meet Your New President & Vice President
Caleb Cullen
2015 Mitchell Scholar · Katahdin Middle High School
An ICU Registered Nurse at St. Joseph Healthcare in Bangor, Caleb has spent his career showing up for people in their hardest moments — as a paramedic, emergency department nurse, and travel RN across the country.
He is grateful for how the Mitchell Institute encouraged him to broaden his horizons and step outside his comfort zone — and he is proud to carry that mission forward for current and future Scholars.
Can help with
Financial management, career pivots, home ownership, pursuing second degrees, maximizing travel rewards
Jesse Blackburn
2010 Mitchell Scholar · Narraguagus High School
A fundraising and development professional with deep roots in first-generation student support, Jesse brings a perspective that is personal as well as professional. He has lived exactly the path the Mitchell Institute exists to support.
Currently based in Gardiner, Maine, Jesse holds a B.A. in Psychology and Community Studies from UMaine Machias and an M.S. in Adult and Higher Education from the University of Southern Maine.
Can help with
Access & equity advocacy, academic navigation, first-gen perspective, financial aid advising, outdoor leadership
Joining the Council
Four New Members
From Bar Harbor to Brunswick, from nursing to international relations — the newest members of MIAC represent the full breadth of what a Mitchell Scholar becomes.
Jasper Makowski
2022 Mitchell Scholar · Foxcroft Academy
A Dover-Foxcroft native, Jasper graduated from the University of Maine in 2026 with a B.S. in Microbiology and is now pursuing his M.D. at Tufts University School of Medicine through the Maine Track program — with plans to return to rural Maine as a primary care physician.
Can help with
Research opportunities, medical school applications, navigating healthcare careers, running and triathlon training
Carolyn Hardy
2014 Mitchell Scholar · Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School
An environmental engineer at Geosyntec Consultants, Carolyn works on groundwater treatment and remediation with a focus on emerging contaminants including PFAS. She also serves on the board of the Norway Opera House, supporting historic preservation and community revitalization in Western Maine.
Can help with
Early career development in engineering and consulting, community and nonprofit involvement, building a career rooted in place
Carlin Bliss
2020 Mitchell Promise Scholar · Casco Bay High School
Carlin graduated from Bay Path University in December 2024 with a B.A. in Justice Studies, a minor in Forensic Psychology, and a certificate in Youth Development. She currently works as the Enrichment and Rentals Coordinator at Breakwater School in Portland, where she is passionate about fostering students’ curiosity and love of learning.
Can help with
Academic and work-life balance, application feedback, working with youth outside the classroom, staying organized
Alex McAuliff
2009 Mitchell Scholar · Waterville High School
An Assistant Professor of Politics and European Studies at Bates College, Alex teaches courses on international politics, peace and conflict, and feminist foreign policy. Her research focuses on gender and peace negotiations, including a book project on the Northern Ireland peace process. She previously worked in the Maine Senate and as a dialogue facilitator in Northern Ireland and at Seeds of Peace.
Can help with
Navigating academic environments, non-linear career paths, graduate school mentorship
The Alumni Council is here for you.
Whether you are a current Scholar navigating college or an Alum looking to reconnect — the Mitchell community is always open.