HR-Dr. Saundra “Sandy” Gardner

Office of Human Resources

Dr. Sandy Gardner has been a valuable member of the Sociology Department for more than a quarter-century. After first joining the department as an instructor, she eventually was hired into a tenure-track position in 1985, and it is difficult to believe that so much time has gone by since that important time in the department’s history.

Sandy served Sociology and the University of Maine in many ways. Besides being on the department’s Peer Committee and Colloquium Committee, she was chair of the department for six years during the 1990s. Her colleagues were especially grateful for her good humor and effective leadership. Among her many other activities on campus, Sandy was involved for many years with the Women in the Curriculum Program and with the Faculty Senate. In the community, Sandy was also involved for many years with Spruce Run and other efforts on behalf of women.

Sandy was a consistent voice during her time on campus for women and for the understanding of issues of gender and gender inequality. Several of her courses dealt directly with these issues, including Perspectives on Women, Domestic Violence and Social Structure, and Sociology of the Family. In recognition of her commitment help students gain an appreciation of these and other issues in the Sociology discipline, Sandy received the 1993 Presidential Outstanding Teaching Award.

Sandy taught many students over the years, and the department is proud to know that they benefited from her presence on campus at least as much as we benefited from her presence in the department. The University of Maine offers its deepest respect and appreciation to you, Sandy, for your 25 years of service and friendship! Congratulations on your retirement!