SANFORD — When Joshua Patnaude steps forward to receive his diploma at the University of Maine commencement in Orono on May 13, he’ll be doing so as the university’s salutatorian.

He’ll be earning two degrees, one in computer engineering and one in electrical engineering. Patnaude, a 2013 graduate of Sanford High School, is the first in his family to attend college. As well, Patnaude has been named Outstanding Graduating Student in the engineering department.

He was a Mitchell Scholar, and earned a number of other awards for his academic achievement, including a Maine Space Grant Award, according to the University of Maine. 

He was among the top 10 in his high school graduating class.

Pretty heady stuff.

In an email exchange earlier this week, Patnaude, the son of Gary and Christine Patnaude and the brother of Sam, who will graduate from Sanford High School in June, said he’s honored by be named salutatorian, and is looking forward to what’s next.

“It really has meant so much to be recognized for all the hard work,” he said. 

Patnaude said after graduation, he plans to plan to start his career and hopes to  become a licensed professional engineer. He’s also looking to earn an MBA.

Allyson Eslin of Bangor, who is earning degrees in political science, economic and psychology will be the UMaine valedictorian.

“The accomplishments of Allyson and Joshua are second to none,” said University of Maine President Susan J. Hunter. “We celebrate their exceptional academic achievement, their commitment to engaged learning and their dedication to making the world a better place through service. They truly represent the UMaine mission and what it means to take full advantage of the student experience at Maine’s public research university.”

Valedictorian and salutatorian are the highest honors that recognize students for outstanding academic achievements, and for contributions to UMaine and beyond. In a news release, Hunter said candidates nominated are evaluated on the strength, breadth and rigor of their academic achievements, evidence of intellectual promise, character, service and other accomplishments.

During college summers, Patnaude has interned at Great Works Foundation Inc., in Sanford; Pratt & Whitney in North Berwick; Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery; and Modern Grid Partners in Portland.

During the academic year, Patnaude was an undergraduate teaching assistant in UMaine’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. He also served as a peer tutor.

For two years, Patnaude served as president of the UMaine Black Bear Robotics Club and since 2014, has helped promote interest in engineering and science by volunteering more than 500 hours at high school VEX robotics competitions. 

He said he’s been interested in robotics since his first class at Sanford Regional Technical Center while in high school.

Patnaude is an Eagle Scout and holds a black belt in karate.

The most important thing he’s learned, so far?

“The most important thing that I have learned from going to school is that you need to talk to your professors and your peers,” he said in the email. “You end up learning so much more by working with other people. Also, don’t be afraid to take a break, go outside, and have fun.”

— Senior Staff Writer Tammy Wells can be contacted at 324-4444 (local call in Sanford) or 282-1535, ext. 327 or twells@journaltribune.com.