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Lucy Bisson

Lewiston, Maine

Gayle Hays

Lucy, a graduate of the University of Maine-Augusta and retired CEO, has served as Board Chair of the Lewiston/Auburn Senior College, an all-volunteer organization whose mission is to provide intellectually stimulating learning opportunities and social events for persons fifty years of age and older. With the threat of campus closures at the start of the COVID pandemic, Lucy was concerned about the potential effects of isolation for the Senior College students. Shifting to a virtual learning environment was challenging as many individuals were not comfortable with technology and wary of this different approach to learning. In short order a ‘How to ZOOM’ course and a ‘ZOOM Manual’ was created. For slower learners, Lucy provided individual ‘tutoring sessions’ and encouraged all to ‘press on’ and take advantage of this incredible technology. Board members, instructors, and students acquired new skills due to Lucy’s leadership, and can-do attitude. The campus reopened and both in person and online courses are now available. Convincing older members that they can adapt to modern technology was a major achievement. Lucy’s deep commitment to civic engagement is evident in other areas aside from her devotion to Senior College. She has spent hundreds of hours volunteering at SeniorsPlus doing Medicare Counseling and has contributed volunteer hours at the Lewiston Ward 4 polling location during November elections. Additionally, Lucy is currently serving on the Lewiston Planning Board – her passion to serve her community runs deep.