OAPI leads Carleton Project on outdoor climbing adventure

    PRESQUE ISLE — The University of Maine at Presque Isle and the Carleton Project teamed up recently to take alternative high school students on an outdoor climbing adventure.
Photo courtesy of UMPI
    OAPI [Outdoor Adventure Program International] officials recently led students from the Carleton Project on an outdoor climb in Clifton. Participating in the day’s activity were, from left, standing: Lenny Cole, instructor; Jenna Larochelle and Amanda Morin, all from UMPI. Sitting: Jasmine Donovan, Antony Philbrick, Jesse Varney, Heather Nunez (Carleton Project teacher), Jennifer Walker (Carleton Project executive director), Clancy Keaton, Moriah Morris (UMO intern for the Carleton Project), Danika Brown, Michaela Gray and Emma Schools.
   On Tuesday, July 14, the Carleton Project and officials from the University’s Outdoor Adventure Program International [OAPI] traveled to Clifton for an outdoor climb at Eagle Cliff. The trip was both a way for Carleton Project students to get outside and enjoy some physical activity and also learn some important lessons about teamwork and decision making.
    Prior to the climb, Carleton Project students spent two days at Gentile Hall’s 37-foot-high climbing wall, learning the skills and techniques needed for their outdoor climb.
    The outdoor climb was guided by Lenny Cole and assisted by Amanda Morin and Jenna Larochelle of OAPI. The day started with a short 15-minute hike to the base of Eagle Cliff. Students spent the rest of the day climbing several routes. In addition to climbing, students also practiced belaying and other teamwork skills, such as peer support, responsibility and decision making on routes.
    “It was a very successful day and our students had an excellent time,” Carleton Project teacher Heather Nunez said. “We’re really looking forward to partnering with OAPI again in the future.”
Photo courtesy of UMPI
    Students with the University of Maine at Presque Isle’s Native Voices group were able to attend the Gathering of the Nations in New Mexico this spring, following months of fund-raising and support from Project Compass. During their visit, students had the chance to witness the Grand Entry and special dance competitions. Pictured, from left: Joni Perley, Tobique First Nation; John Dennis, cultural director, Aroostook Band of Micmacs; David Putnam, UMPI; Michelle Baumflek, research associate — UMPI, doctoral student — Cornell University; Amy (Joseph) Dennis, Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians; Tina Bear, Tobique First Nation; Michael Best, president of Native Voices — UMPI, Maliseet/Passamaquoddy; Chelsea Ellis, Passamaquoddy; Jason Parlin, secretary of Native Voices — UMPI, Ojibway/Pottawotami; and Lenni Perley, Tobique First Nation.