Calendar
The Class of 2026Thursday, January 8, 2026
Opening Retreat
Get to know the Class of 2026. Mapping Portland, The Wabanaki REACH experience.
LOCATION: University of Southern Maine & Osher Map Library
Tuesday, January 27, 2026
Belonging in the City
Immigration and in-migration in a changing state and city; Understanding data, context and impact of culture and economy
LOCATION: Portland Public Library
SPONSOR: Mascoma Bank
Tuesday February 10, 2026
Environment
Balancing environmental concerns and convenience; renewable and sustainable energy opportunities.
LOCATION: ecomaine.
Thursday, March 5, 2026
Government and Public Policy
Local municipal government, regional government initiatives, city staff and the fire department
LOCATION: Portland City Hall
Tuesday, March 31, 2026
Education
Understanding Portland’s diverse K-12 public education system
LOCATION: Casco Bay High School/Portland Arts & Technology HS
SPONSOR: Green Clean Maine
Thursday April 16, 2026
Economic Development
Opportunities, challenges, and local conditions affecting the development of the city and regional region; business and the waterfront.
LOCATION: The Working Waterfront
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Health and Human Services
Benefits and barriers to the delivery of healthcare in Portland; public health, housing, social services needs and programs.
LOCATION: Avesta Housing
SPONSOR: Harvard Pilgrim Health
Thursday, May 14, 2026
Law, Justice, and Public Safety
Impact of the interconnectedness of social issues, mental health, and substance abuse on the criminal justice system; explore best practices, data, and current trends in the criminal justice system; and what initiatives are happening in Portland.
LOCATION: Portland Police Department & TBD
Thursday, May 28, 2026
Culture, Arts, and the Creative Economy
Impact of arts and cultural activities on our local economy and quality of life; diversity and depth of cultural opportunities and assets in Portland.
LOCATION: TBD
SPONSOR: Camden National Bank
Wednesday June 10, 2026
Portland!
Portland’s vibrant tourism, hospitality and food scene
LOCATION: Around Portland’s vibrant food & tourism spots
SPONSOR: Cornerstone Financial Planning