UMF welcomes Thomas Gilman, New Zealand specialist in sustainable tourism and Libra Scholar, to campus in April

April 8, 2026 - 16:29

The University of Maine at Farmington will welcome Dr. Thomas Gilman, a leading specialist in sustainable tourism from New Zealand, to campus this April. Dr. Gilman’s visit is made possible through the prestigious Libra Scholars program, which brings distinguished international academics to the university.

With a focus on balancing economic growth with environmental and cultural preservation, Dr. Gilman’s expertise is particularly relevant to Maine’s own communities and natural landscapes. During his residency, he will engage directly with students and faculty through a series of interactive lectures, workshops, and informal discussions. These sessions aim to explore innovative models for tourism that support local economies while safeguarding ecological and heritage resources for future generations.

The visit underscores UMF’s commitment to providing globally-informed perspectives on pressing contemporary issues. Organizers highlight the unique opportunity for students in business, environmental science, and community planning to gain firsthand knowledge from an international practitioner. The series promises to foster meaningful dialogue on how regions can develop tourism strategies that are both profitable and responsible.