College of the Atlantic founding faculty member William Carpenter is honored with a legislative s...College of the Atlantic founding faculty member William Carpenter is honored with a legislative sentiment on the floor of the Maine Senate. Pictured, from left, are Donna Gold, Carpenter's wife and former public relations director at COA, Maine legislative aid and COA graduate Ursa Beckford ’17, Carpenter, and Senator Erin Herbig (D-Belfast).Sen. Erin Herbig, D-Belfast, honored Carpenter, of Stockton Springs, for his 48 years of teaching literature and creative writing at College of the Atlantic in Bar Harbor. Carpenter traveled to Augusta with his wife Donna Gold to receive a legislative sentiment. The college’s first faculty member, Carpenter retired in the spring of 2019. In Sen. Herbig’s remarks on the Senate floor, she thanked Carpenter on behalf of the Maine Legislature.

“Over the past half century, Bill has taught world literature, Shakespeare, creative writing, history, film, Maine Mythology, poetry and more to generations of students,” said Sen. Herbig. “Thank you for inspiring present and future leaders, instilling a Retiring COA professor Bill Carpenter is known for his annual remarks at the College's Laurel...Retiring COA professor Bill Carpenter is known for his annual remarks at the College's Laurel book and award ceremony. passion for literature and creative writing in your students and enriching the great State of Maine we all know and love.”

Darron Collins, president of College of the Atlantic, said Carpenter is a renowned author and tremendous teacher. 

“Whether in the classroom, in the dining hall, on his sailboat or in his office, one cannot help but emerge from time spent with Bill and feel like a better, wiser and more compassionate person,” said Collins. “He cares so deeply about this institution and will always — always — have a place at the college.”

A legislative sentiment is a significant expression of the Maine Legislature to honor notable achievements. If you know of someone who should be recognized, please contact Sen. Herbig at (207) 287-1515 or Erin.Herbig@legislature.maine.gov.