Former Maine Governor John Reed Speaks at Charles F. Allen Society Luncheon

 Established in 1995, The Charles F. Allen Society recognizes alumni and friends who share the intent to support the University of Maine by will or other form of planned gift.  The Reverend Charles Frederick Allen was the first full-time President of the University of Maine (1871-1879).

Charles F. Allen Society supporting organizations are the University of Maine, University of Maine Foundation, University of Maine Alumni Association, University of Maine Pulp and Paper Foundation and the Pine Tree State 4-H Foundation.

John R. Reed, member of the Charles F. Allen Society, former Ambassador and Maine Governor, spoke at the September 21, 2007 recognition luncheon. John served in the United States Navy during World War II. In 1954, he was elected to the Maine House of Representatives and served one term before being elected to the Maine Senate. At the start of his second senate term he was elected senate president, an office that in Maine is second in line to the governorship. When Governor Clinton Clauson died in office, John was elected to finish Clauson's term in 1960. He was reelected in 1962 where he served as Maine's first 4 year term governor. In 1967, President Lyndon Johnson appointed John to head the newly established National transportation Safety Board serving for 9 years. In 1976, John was appointed by President Gerald Ford as US ambassador to Sri Lanka and later the Republic of Maldives. In 1981, President Ronald Reagan appointed John to serve again as ambassador to Sri Lanka.

John gave a delightful recollection of his career highlighting those who influenced his life along the way. He also spoke of the role that his University of Maine education played in his life and the importance of supporting the next generation.

Also speaking was Chelsi Snow, a 4th year student majoring in molecular and cellular biology. She is also an Honors College student. She is a Mainer who graduated from Penobscot Valley High School in Howland. Chelsi plans to attend graduate school and go into a Ph.D. program for biochemistry. She said,“because I am not bearing a tremendous loan burden, I feel that I can responsibly pursue an advanced degree. I credit this wholly to the support I have received.”

 Maine Alumni and friends who let us know that they have provided at least $10,000 for the University of Maine or its affiliated organizations in a will, trust, pooled life income fund, life insurance policy, gift annuity or retirement fund, immediately become members of the Society.  If you would like more information about the Charles F. Allen Society, please contact Amos Orcutt, president and CEO, or the Foundation planned giving officers.