Dirigo Support Staff Committee

The Dirigo Chapter of TERSSA is a formal committee dedicated to supporting the professional development of University of Maine Cooperative Extension support staff in Maine. Our core purpose is to create a unified space that encourages professional and personal growth, fosters robust collaboration, recognizes service excellence, and actively cultivates and provides opportunities for leadership development within our members.

About

Dirigo Support Staff Committee

The Dirigo Support Staff Committee (DSSC) is the local chapter of TERSSA in Maine, formed in 2025. Members do not need to join the national TERSSA organization to be a part of the local Maine chapter. If you are a UMaine Extension support staff member who is interested in connecting with DSSC, please reach out to one of the current members or contact us using our email address.

The Extension & Research Support Staff Association

The Extension & Research Support Staff Association (TERSSA) is the nationwide professional organization for support staff who work at Extension or Research organizations. Check out the TERSSA website for more information.

Benefits of Joining TERSSA

Members of TERSSA have access to a network of support staff across the country who work for similar institutions. TERSSA also offers professional development resources and opportunities, including an annual national conference.

Current Members

Updated as of February 2026

  • Melissa Babcock, Orono
  • Sue Baez, Hancock County
  • Sarah Davenport, Cumberland County
  • Becky Gray, Statewide Home Horticulture
  • Julie LaJoie, Somerset County
  • Andrea Mahoney, Hancock County
  • Angela Martin, Orono
  • Emily J. Mott, EFNEP
  • Theresa Tilton, Penobscot County
  • Tara Wood, Washington County

Support Staff Award of Excellence

DSSC is responsible for managing the annual Support Staff Award of Excellence. For more information about the award, including criteria, how to submit nominations, or to see past winners, please visit the Support Staff of Excellence website.

Contact Us

Have questions about DSSC? Interested in attending one of our monthly meetings or joining the committee? Please contact us via email.