ORONO, Maine, April 23 -- University of Maine issued the following news release:

The University of Maine will honor five faculty members with its 2026 Presidential Awards, recognizing excellence in research, teaching, innovation, public engagement and extraordinary impact.

This year's recipients are:

* Mehdi Tajvidi, Presidential Research and Creative Achievement Award.

* Darren Ranco, Presidential Public Engagement Achievement Award.

* Jay Wason, Presidential Outstanding Teaching Award.

* Melissa Ladenheim, Black Bear Award for Extraordinary Impact.

* William Davids, Presidential Innovation Award.

"These awards recognize the very best of the University of Maine," said President Joan Ferrini-Mundy. "Each of these individuals demonst...