ESPSG and Bio Club Announce Earth Day Cleanups

Join Students in Making a Difference

Makayla Morello, News Editor • April 13, 2026

Published: April 13, 2026

USM’s Environmental Science and Policy Student Group (ESPSG) will host two campus cleanup events in celebration of Earth Week.

The group’s mission is to “promote environmental awareness, activism, and enjoyment through participation in community service, education, and outdoor activities.” Founded in 1995 by a small group of early Environmental Science and Policy students, ESPSG has remained committed to fostering community involvement and environmental stewardship. Each year, members volunteer with local programs that support conservation, education, and sustainability efforts. This Earth Week’s events consist of two cleanups:

Portland Campus: April 23rd from 12 pm to 2 pm. Participants should meet outside of McGoldrick.
Gorham Campus: April 24th from 10 am to 12 pm. Participants should meet outside of Bailey 106.

Additionally, the USM Biology Club will be hosting a separate cleanup. The Biology Club is a student group dedicated to biology “in terms of education, research, and recreation.” The club was reinstated just last year when an eager group of students wanted a place to share their passion for biology.

The Biology Club’s Earth Day cleanup:

Portland Campus: April 24th at 2 pm. This will consist of cleaning the Portland campus and Back Cove. Participants should meet at the Bean Green.

Volume 57 Issue 15

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About the Contributor

Makayla Morello, Editor-in-Chief

Makayla Morello is the Editor-in-Chief of The Free Press for the 2026–2027 academic year. A junior at the University of Southern Maine, Morello brings experience in communication and campus advocacy to the role, along with a strong passion for public-interest journalism. Originally from Westbrook, Maine, she has reported on topics ranging from local civic and community issues to higher education and emerging technology, always striving to approach stories with nuance and curiosity.

As Editor-in-Chief, Morello is committed to creating a newspaper that connects and reflects the diverse voices of the USM community. She hopes to expand student involvement in campus media, strengthen investigative reporting, and continue The Free Press’s mission of student-driven journalism that fosters meaningful dialogue both on and off campus.

Morello’s path into journalism began during her second year of college, when she joined The Free Press as a Staff Writer before advancing to News Editor. After discovering a passion for reporting and storytelling, she transitioned from studying Elementary Education to pursuing Media Studies. Outside of journalism, she holds a black belt in karate and enjoys tennis, reading, spending time in nature, and being with family and friends. She received a 2026 Maine Press Association Scholarship and USM’s Promise Scholar Emerging Student Leader Award.