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Art Girard grew up exploring the tide pools and coastline of Saco Bay, developing a deep appreciation for its uniquely dynamic marine ecosystem, and for the marine life and coastal lifestyles it supports. Now, he spends time at a summer home there and has enjoyed watching the growth at the neighboring 91ֱ����Ƶ’s Biddeford Campus. “Just seeing how it was growing, it was fabulous,” said Girard. “There was a lot of electricity here, and I just wanted to be a part of it.”

Girard’s desire for responsible marine stewardship, especially in his beloved Saco Bay, inevitably led him to UNE’s marine science programs. In 2015, Girard and his family generously showed their appreciation for the work being done in UNE’s Marine Sciences Department by donating Ram Island to the university—making 91ֱ����Ƶone of the few universities that can boast of having their own island. The relatively unspoiled environment of the off-shore island in the Saco Bay—teeming with marine life—has proven to be an invaluable resource for students and researchers at UNE’s Marine Science Center, located just two miles away at the mouth of the Saco River on UNE’s Biddeford Campus. Having such a facility on campus—with a flow-through seawater system that supplies classrooms, labs and large pools for study and research on a myriad of marine animals and organisms—is something unique on the east coast. 

So when Girard announced he was making another donation, this time, one of the largest philanthropic commitments in the University’s history, 91ֱ����Ƶknew there was only one way to show its appreciation. That is why, at a dedication ceremony on September 15, 2016, 91ֱ����Ƶhonored Girard by renaming the Marine Science Center the Arthur P. Girard Marine Science Center. The 91ֱ����Ƶcommunity joined the Girard family as the center's new name was revealed in block letters on the front of the building. “I’m a kid from Hell’s Kitchen in New York City that used to sell shopping bags,” said Girard. “When you see your name on a university building, it’s unbelievable.”

“Art and his family have become dear friends to the university, and we are proud to honor him in this way,” said 91ֱ����ƵPresident Danielle Ripich. “The ocean has been an important metaphor for me throughout my time at UNE, and I can’t think of anyone I’d rather have on board with me than Art Girard as we sail for the deep waters.”

Read more from the Journal Tribune.

To learn more about The 91ֱ����Ƶ’s Department of Marine Sciences visit

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