The University of Maine Alumni Association mourns the recent passing of Dione Williams Hutchinson ’54, ‘71G. Dione was a dedicated and generous alumna who served and supported the University of Maine in many ways, including as a member of the Alumni Association Board of Directors from 1999 through 2006. Dione was a proud partner with her husband Fred, who was also a UMaine alumnus. Fred served the University of Maine as a professor, dean, vice president, and ultimately served as president of the University of Maine from 1992 through 1997.
“Dione was an extraordinary advocate for UMaine,” said Joan Ferrini-Mundy, president of the University of Maine and its regional campus, the University of Maine at Machias. “Her legacy goes well beyond her role as a popular and highly engaged ‘First Lady’ during Fred Hutchinson’s presidency. She was actively involved as an alumna, volunteer fundraiser, donor and champion of student success. The only thing that slowed her down was her declining health in recent years. On behalf of the entire UMaine community, Rick and I extend our deepest sympathies to Dione’s family and friends upon the passing of such a remarkable woman.”
To honor Dione’s life and legacy, contributions are encouraged to the Frederick E. and Dione W. Hutchinson Presidential Scholarship at the University of Maine Foundation, Two Alumni Place, Orono, ME 04469.