Boothbay Harbor resident Ronald Cohen recently graduated from the University of Maine at Augusta with two bachelor's degrees in accounting and business management (with a minor in biology). He graduated with a GPA of 3.125.

Along with his degree, Cohen was recognized at graduation with the “distinguished student award” along with fellow student Alyra Donisvitch.

The distinguished student award is presented to students who are active in community service and extracurricular leadership, along with academic accomplishment.

Cohen was nominated by his teacher, Barbara Rowell, who also encouraged him and his wife, Juliette Cohen, to enter the UMaine Business Challenge (in which they recently won second place) with their new business, Above and Beyond Scheduling.

“Barbara was such a help to us,” Cohen said. “She advised us every step of the way and took a true interest in what we were trying to do. That's the kind of dedication the teachers have, and why I love this school.”

Cohen re-founded the UMA Accounting Society & Business Club during his time at school, which had been dormant for 20 years. The club visits local businesses and learns from successful people, and works to create opportunities for students through networking.

Recently the club visited the Allagash and Shipyard breweries, along with the Sappi Fine Paper mill.

“At Sappi the CFO (chief financial officer) came out and spoke with us,” Cohen said. “We've had nothing but positive feedback from students who have learned as part of the club.”

Cohen has also worked on the community garden project with TOGUS, and organized a fundraising benefit for Bread of Life. He plans to continue being active in the club as an alumni.

Cohen is currently a staff sergeant for the National Guard, in which he has served in since high school (17 years). He served in Iraq in 2004 and 2005, and will continue serving while he works with his wife in their new business venture.