Due to increasing interest from Abenaki students wanting to attend the University of Vermont a new program was developed. This is the Abenaki Outreach Program. The main goals of the program are threefold:

• Develop and coordinate a comprehensive outreach network between the University of Vermont and the Abenaki community of Northwestern Vermont (which includes Swanton, Highgate and St. Albans).
• To establish a relationship between Abenaki parents and students from Northwestern Vermont high schools and UVM in an attempt to promote increased parental involvement in post-secondary opportunities.
• To provide educational opportunities for learning about Abenaki culture for UVM faculty, staff and students by creating a visible presence on campus.

The program coordinator, Ken Maskell, runs the program through offices at the ALANA Student Center on the UVM campus and Missisquoi Valley Union High School. In addition, Mr. Maskell helps coordinate other activities within the Abenaki community involving various other University departments and other entities including:

• University of Vermont/Social Rehabilitation Services
• Flynn Center for the Performing Arts
• The Rubenstein School of Environment & Natural Resources
• College of Nursing & Health Sciences
• TRIO Programs
• Vermont Student Assistance Corporation
• Title V Indian Education Program
• Parent Advisory Committee

The program itself involves several specific services to program participants. These include:

• Assist students with course selection
• Assist in locating financial aid and scholarships
• Provide on-campus activities for students and parents
• Coordinate and facilitate student use of existing University programs
• Provide students with cultural activities
• Facilitate new student leadership group at Missisquoi Valley High School
• Liason between school administrators and community