Economy, Diplomacy, Education, Security, and Emergency Preparedness
Leadership in the High North
For an empowered Maine Arctic future.
Leadership in the High North Alliance
Advancing Maine’s role in the Arctic and northern region is crucial for enhancing Arctic security and promoting leadership in the High North. By focusing on the Blue Economy, we can ensure a sustainable future for Maine's Arctic.
2026 Agenda
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Advancing Maine’s role in the Arctic and Northern region is crucial for enhancing Arctic security and promoting leadership in the High North. By focusing on the Blue Economy, we can ensure a sustainable future for Maine's Arctic.
Leadership
Darryl W. Lyon
Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Darryl W. Lyon is a University of Maine Interdisciplinary Doctoral student focusing on Arctic security in the Atlantic High North. He holds a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies from the United States Naval War College (2017), a Master of Science in Business (Sigma Beta Delta) from Husson University (2008), and a Master of Arts in Communication from the University of Maine (1995). In 2024, Darryl earned a graduate certificate in Climate Science and Adaptation from the University of Maine’s Climate Change Institute, which aligns with his commitment to the Maine Arctic future and the Blue Economy.
As the Maine National Guard’s High North Action Officer, Darryl played a pivotal role in creating and developing the National Guard Arctic Interest Council. He designed and facilitated an Arctic geopolitical simulation at the Arctic Summer Institute (University of Maine School of Law). Darryl has presented at various prestigious events such as the Arctic Encounter in London, the US Army War College, the Air Force Command and Staff College, the 52nd International Arctic Workshop (University of Massachusetts, Amherst), and at the World Affairs Council of Maine’s Governor’s breakfast. He is also a regular contributor to the Arctic Today website, where he shares insights on Arctic security issues.
In 2025, he initiated "Leadership in the High North 2026" alongside his co-founder Mariam Jabbar, underscoring the importance of strategic leadership in navigating the complexities of the Arctic region.
Mariam Jabbar
In 2025, after meeting Darryl Lyon at the annual Governors Breakfast hosted by the World Affairs Council of Maine, we came together to create something meaningful, organized, and intentional through our initiative, Leadership in the High North. As a refugee, I sought safety, education, and a brighter future in the United States, which my native country could not provide.
I wear many hats daily as a student, a linguist, a model, Miss Greater Portland for America Strong 2025 and 2026, and a photographer. My undergraduate studies have instilled in me the understanding that education is a privilege, and our network is a blessing. My journey in life has shown me that while there is often disaster in the world, we must seize opportunities to spread love, foster positive interactions, and build a community of authentic and enthusiastic individuals. It is our human duty to pursue this vision, especially when considering the Maine Arctic future and the importance of Arctic Security, Blue Economy, Diplomacy, Education, and Emergency Preparedness.
Darryl and I recognized the challenges presented by limited opportunities in Maine. Through our individual strengths and networks, we aim to create an environment that fosters collaboration by bringing together students and experts from multidisciplinary fields, all united by a shared passion. My name is Mariam Jabbar, and I am excited to pursue my role as a leader by developing opportunities and collaborating with exceptional people.
Thank you to those who trusted our vision!
A special Thank You to our support team and sponsors for guiding us in our mission of Arctic passion and for fostering Leadership in the High North! Your unwavering support and trust are vital to our initiatives to ensure a sustainable Maine Arctic future. We truly believe we are stronger together!