Annie Sargent- Director
Annie Sargent has deep roots in Hancock County. Living overseas early in life impacted her values and perspective. She’s now settled in Downeast Maine. Since 1986, Annie has worn many hats in education programs. She is dedicated to working in partnership with individuals, organizations, and businesses to assist adults in reaching their potential by breaking down the barriers to achieving their goals. She is inspired by many adult learners who overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles to achieve them. Annie believes student-centered, relevant learning and a welcoming and inclusive culture are essential to learner success.
Emily Nash-ELA Instructor, Student Advisor
My 54 years on this earth have been driven by connecting with and helping people. After achieving my BA and secondary English teacher training, my professional experience in education began outdoors, leading crews of youth and young adults in backcountry trail work. I have been a teacher in every facet of reading, writing, English, and the humanities, including emergent readers, college preparation, family literacy, ESL, and high school completion and equivalency instruction. While my children were youngsters, I enjoyed a decade as a professional landscaper. I’ve been back in academic teaching for 8 years, learning with and from an amazing array of adults. I compare the privilege of working with adult learners to working with flowers. Adult students are like a bouquet: complete, unique, and beautiful because of their diversity. I love helping learners to overcome obstacles and discover their strengths and powers. Everyone has them! In my free time, you can find me enjoying my other passions: reading, cooking, gardening, and connecting with nature, including my elderly dog, young cat, and husband. All three are allowed on the couch.
“We are more alike, my friends, than we are unalike.”
from Human Family, by Maya Angelou
Vanessa Richards- Math, Science and Technology Teacher / Student Advisor
Vanessa has 25 years of teaching and tutoring experience in the subjects of mathematics, science, computer applications, workplace skills, and career exploration. 20 of those years have been spent working almost exclusively with adult learners, as adult education teacher and career/college advisor for Ellsworth Adult & Community Education, RSU 13 (Rockland) Adult & Community Education, Wiscasset Adult & Community Education, and as adjunct lecturer of Biology and Ecology at the University College in Rockland. Vanessa has coordinated and guided several group tours to the British Isles, Alaska, and Québec; and is a certified Maine Whitewater Rafting Guide. When not facilitating learning (and loving it!), she is exploring the planet and pondering what life would be like to reside in an off-the-grid yurt.
George Blumenschein-Evening Administrative Assistant
George Blumenschein is a dynamic addition to both the community and the field of education. Originally from the Pacific Northwest, George developed a deep appreciation for the great outdoors, enjoying activities like hiking, nature photography, swimming, and boating. With over 20 years of experience in the culinary industry, he has honed his passion for helping others succeed, which naturally led him to a career in education.
Currently, George serves as an Educational Tec, where he focuses on supporting students and bridging gaps in their learning experiences. In the evenings, he takes on the role of Administrative Assistant at Ellsworth Adult Education, bringing the warmth and hospitality he cultivated in the culinary world to his work.
Outside of his professional commitments, George is actively involved in his local church, where he finds joy in worship and community service. Whether in the classroom, the kitchen, or his place of worship, George’s dedication to uplifting others shines through.
Our Incredible Instructors
Where would we be without our dedicated instructors who bring our programs to life? From the creative vision of our art instructors and the expertise of our technology educators to the craftsmanship of our skilled artisans and the culinary talents that delight us all—each of you plays a vital role in our success.
Thank you for your passion, dedication, and support in making our programs a resounding success!