Meet our Team: Kendall Croteau

Meet Kendall Croteau, a Student Support Specialist for the Doctor of Education program here at UNE Online.

Kendall joined UNE in the winter of 2019 as an Enrollment Counselor for the Social Work program, and since then, has transitioned into a Support role. Here, she talks about her experience supporting online social work students, the best professional advice she’s received, and how she came to be a Maine transplant.

At UNE Online, students are our top priority – and our students’ success is what drives each and every one of us. These ‘Meet our Team’ spotlights are just one way we like to share a little bit about the people who are dedicated to UNE Online’s signature student-centric experience.

What do you do at UNE Online?

I am a Student Support Specialist for the Doctor of Education program. I am the main point of contact for students during their time in the program and assist them in achieving their academic goals. 

Where are you from?

I grew up in southern NH in a beach community and have always spent as much time as possible in the mountains. I went to college in northern ME, and have since resided in Portland. A seaside city with a mountain community feel.

What’s your favorite dessert?

Any type of dark chocolate with hazelnuts or caramel, preferably Ritter’s. And don’t get me started on gummy candies! Darrell’s licorice, Jelly Babies, and Haribo berries can commonly be found in my pantry.

What is the best professional advice you’ve received?

Do what you love, love what you do, and everything will fall into place.

What’s your favorite thing about living in Maine?

I once heard a native Mainer describe the state as, “one big hometown.” There is a communal charm that extends along the seacoast and across the mountains. In the grocery store, conversations are exchanged between strangers with a natural cadence, as if they were friends around a campfire.

The berry thief strikes again

But what I have cherished most about living in Maine, is the unparalleled appreciation for nature.

What’s your motto?

“Choose happiness.” It’s that simple.

Do you have a secret talent?

If I told you, it wouldn’t be a secret…however, I do make a stellar peanut butter and honey sandwich!

Do you have any pets?

Not currently, however, I do have many houseplants and I garden in the summer. Last summer I grew a vivacious strawberry bush for the first time. Nearly every afternoon I’d go out to pick the berries that had ripened the evening before. And nearly every afternoon, the garden’s friendly “pet” groundhog had already beat me to it.

What’s your favorite part of being a Student Support Specialist?

Building a relationship with students, and learning where their personal interests and professional goals intersect. By understanding the driving forces that motivate a student, in turn, motivates how I support students in reaching their academic goals.

Our students consistently name our personalized student support as one of the top reasons they graduate with their degree. To learn more about our student-centric online graduate degrees and certificates: