Meet our Lifelong Maine Students

Chelsea Chapman is a graduate student at the University of Maine in Orono in the MSW program. In December 2019, Chelsea completed her BA in Psychology with a minor in French, also at the University of Maine. This May, Chelsea will graduate from her current program.

This school year, Chelsea has worked as an intern at the UMaine Center on Aging as part of her program requirements. As part of her work at the Center, Chelsea is helping the Lifelong Maine news team develop a few stories. Keep an eye out for her by-line!

Chelsea lives in Orono, Maine, with her fiancé and two cats, Winston and Georgia. In her free time, she likes to listen to music, read, and spend time with loved ones.

Brandi Connor-Vargeson has spent much of her professional career working as a case manager for individuals with substance use, and individuals with disabilities. She is also a resident of Lewiston. “I am looking forward to working with the team on this project!”

Kris Allen is an alumna of Western Washington University and the University of Idaho. She  works in community mental health in New Hampshire, where she supports older adults with chronic and severe mental illness. She recently completed an internship with the Maine Council on Aging where she first learned about the AFC movement. “I am so excited for the people of Lewiston to undertake this endeavor. I am honored to be able to support the community and learn from the residents of Lewiston.” Kris lives in an Age Friendly Community in Southern New Hampshire.

Jean Pierre is a Master of Social Work (MSW) student and a Lewiston resident as well. “As I am currently enrolled in a Research class that focuses on understanding the various methodologies and techniques involved in conducting meaningful and impactful research within the field of social work. I am excited to apply the knowledge and skills I have gained from this course to real-world projects, such as the survey that Lewiston has commissioned on age-friendly communities. I am particularly interested in exploring the unique needs and perspectives of older adults living in Lewiston and how we can work together to address any potential barriers they may face in accessing community resources and services. By partnering with Lewiston on this project, I hope to contribute to the development of a more inclusive and supportive community that values and elevates the voices of older adults.”