Floyd Powell

A native of Danforth, Maine, Floyd Powell taught at UMFK from 1935 until 1969.  He was the University's first academic dean; a position he held until his retirement.  He was known, affectionately, as "The Dean."

Floyd Powell received a Bachelor of Science and Master's degrees from the University of Maine.  He also attended the University of Southern California for a year to study modern United States history.  Dean Powell acquired the nickname, "Red," on account of his shock of flaming-red hair.

Powell served as UMFK's athletic director for 21 years, and coached baseball and basketball.  His basketball team at the Madawaska Training School won the 1935-36 state championship for normal schools.  "Red" was well-known throughout the state as a sports enthusiast.

Due to his commitment to higher education in general, and UMFK in particular, the (then) men's dormitory on campus was named in his honor in dedication ceremonies on June 5, 1966.  Upon his retirement from UMFK, Powell was named Dean Emeritus.

After retiring, Floyd Powell served five years as a selectman in Wallagrass Plantation, and twice represented the Towns of Fort Kent, Frenchville and Wallagrass Plantation in the Maine state legislature. He was particularly interested in legislation concerning retirement and school finance during his time in Augusta.  Dean Floyd "Red" Powell died in 1977.