ORONO — On March 28, the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife bestowed its MaryAnn Hartman award on Lincolnville resident and Maine Warden Service Chaplain Kate Braestrup at a special ceremony at the University of Maine at Orono.

“Kate is a tremendous human being first and foremost, with a valid understanding of her role in service to others,” said Colonel Joel Wilkinson, of the Maine Warden Service. “She does this from a centered place of genuine care for others. She is a tremendous resource to the State of Maine, the Maine Warden Service and the entire law enforcement community. We are so proud of her, and glad she is being recognized by the university for this award.” 

The award recognizes the diversity in interests, service, geographic location, and culture that best represents Maine, according to a news release from IF&W. Strong leadership and role modeling in the nominee’s work are also important.

The award recognizes distinguished Maine women and their accomplishments in the arts, politics, business, education and community service, according to the release. 

About MaryAnn Hartman: After receiving a Ph.D. from Bowling Green State University in 1969, Maryann Hartman joined the University of Maine faculty as an assistant professor and director of forensics. A pioneer in the field of oral interpretation, Hartman studied communicative arts from historical, rhetorical, and aesthetic perspectives. The Maryann Hartman and Young Women’s Social Justice awards honor the spirit, achievement, and zest for life that Hartman epitomized.