The Pine Tree Tradition
3/3/2026
Discover how the "MAINE spirit" of service and ambition shapes our hospitality and our community.
A Century of Excellence
In 1925, UMaine President Clarence Little and Dean Carolyn Colvin envisioned a society that would represent the pinnacle of female leadership on campus. They founded the All Maine Women (AMW) Honor Society, creating a legacy of scholars and role models who exemplify the "MAINE spirit."
If you’ve spent any time on campus, you know the symbols: the gold pins, the sweaters, and the small pine trees painted on cheeks once a week. But beyond the traditions, AMW represents a commitment to community service and lifelong learning—values that resonate deeply within the walls of Hotel Ursa.
The Modern Matriarchy of Hospitality
Just as the All Maine Women society serves as a "family tree" for campus leaders, Hotel Ursa is proud to be guided by a formidable team of female professionals. Our property is led by a staff of female department heads, including our General Manager, Director of Sales, and Assistant General Manager.
In the world of independent hospitality, leadership isn't just about operations; it’s about the "sincerity" mentioned in our brand's DNA. It’s the ability to balance the complex logistics of a premier hotel with the warmth of a genuine interaction.
"Hospitality is, at its core, an act of service and intuition—traits that the women of UMaine have modeled for nearly a century."
Rooted in Service, Branching into the Future
The All Maine Women Alumni Affinity Group strives to create a network that fosters professional development and philanthropy. At Hotel Ursa, we mirror that mission by cultivating an environment where our team and our guests can stay "mentally and physically active."
Our female leaders bring a unique perspective to the guest experience:
- Intuitive Design: Ensuring every stay feels like a nostalgic return home.
- Community Connection: Strengthening the ties between the University and the Orono community.
- Ambitious Standards: Striving to never stop learning or improving the guest journey.
Visit the Legacy
Whether you are an AMW alumna returning for a networking event or a traveler who appreciates the power of female-led independent business, we invite you to experience the hospitality we’ve built here. Come walk the campus trails, breathe in the fresh Maine air, and see how the traditions of 1925 continue to inspire the leaders of today.