2021 Maine 4-H Foundation Scholarship Award Recipients
The Gene Doris Humphrey 4-H Scholarship
Ms. Gene Humphrey of Gray, Maine has a long family history with 4-H and Agriculture in Maine. As a retired professor and teacher in the field of math she is passionate about helping future teachers to excel in the math and STEM fields. She was a pioneer in the early 1970’s while at South Portland High School introducing computers into high schools in Maine starting with four schools. To facilitate this, an NSF Grant was received involving SPHS, Dartmouth College and USM (then University at Portland- Gorham). She is a graduate of the University of Maine and has taught mathematics for almost 50 years at South Portland High School, University of New England and retired from the University of Southern Maine in 2015. In Addition, she taught at Bowdoin College, training teachers. She composed and played three songs used for the 2020 virtual 4-H Foundation scholarship presentations. She received her master’s degree in mathematics and a distinguished teaching award from Bowdoin College. Preference will be given to a member planning to study Math, STEM, or a related field and attending the University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, or Bowdoin College.
The 2021 recipient is Colleen McAllister. Colleen will be attending the University of Southern Maine and studying Art Education. Colleen McAllister is from Raymond and is attending Gray-New Gloucester High School. She is a member of Cumberland County 4-H Sheep Club and is an independent 4-H’er in the beef project. In school, she has played lacrosse and enjoys doing art, and has participated on the Heartwood Arts & Literacy Magazine publishing team in 2020-2021. Colleen has been accepted at the University of Southern Maine, Montana State University, and the University of Wyoming. She plans on studying Art Education. A quote from Colleen reads: “4-H has helped me find myself as a person and be proud of it.”
The Leo J. & Catherine D. Pelley 4-H Scholarship Fund
Was established at the Maine 4-H Foundation in 2020. The fund has been established by Beth Pelley Breazeal for the benefit of Maine young people planning to go beyond High School in their educational studies and training, specifically in one of the many trade school subject areas. The fund was established in honor of Leo J. and Catherine D. Pelley by their daughter Beth and Jonathon L. Hancock. Beth grew up in 4-H involved in the sheep, dog, and horticulture programs, and is an alumni member of the California 4-H Youth Development program.
The 2021 recipient is Kalayann Cashell. She will be attending the York County Community College and then to UNH to study Exercise Science. Kalayaan Cashell is from North Berwick and attends Noble High School. Kalayann has been the president of the Lucky Charms 4-H Club. She has attended the National 4-H Healthy Living Summit working on a stress prevention workshop. She helps with younger kids mentoring crossfit and is on the track and cross-country teams in school. She is a member of the French and National Honor Societies. Kalayaan has been accepted to the University of Southern Maine, University of Maine, and the University of New England and will study Exercise Science. A quote from Kalayaan reads:” I have learned so much from 4-H and I am very grateful for everything that I’ve learned and for all of the people I’ve met”.
Nancy L Arms ‘84, Chadwick C. and Barbara Arms 4-H Scholarship Fund
Nancy Arms grew up in the 4-H program and rose to the Junior Leadership level in the Kennebec County 4-H program. Daughter of Chadwick, University of Maine Cooperative Extension Professor Emeritus and Barbara Arms, dedicated 4-H volunteer leaders. Barbara and Chad started and lead a 4-H club that expanded to many members with the help and collaboration of neighborhood assistant leaders. The club did a lot for the community and contributed to the growth of the many youth that participated. Nancy graduated Phi Beta Kappa in 1984 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the College of Arts and Science majoring in Computer Science and was part of the Maine delegation to the 1979 National 4-H Congress. This fund is created in appreciation of the growth and opportunities youth can get through the 4-H program and also to the value of higher education at the University of Maine.
The 2021 recipient is Hannah Dyer. She will be studying Veterinary Science, Marine Biology, or Nursing at the University of Maine. Hannah Dyer is from Brooklin and is attending George Stevens Academy. She has been involved in Horse of Course, the Aquaculture Internship program, 4-H Aquaculture project and the Blue Hill Fair. School activities include, band, jazz band, and the softball team. Hannah has been accepted at the University of Maine, University of Maine Augusta/Bangor, St. Joseph’s College and the University of New England and is interested in Veterinary Science, Nursing, or Marine Biology. A quote from Hannah reads: “It has helped me learn that although I had a challenging personal life, I could still be successful and achieve amazing things through 4-H.”
Azure Dillon Scholarship
One of our valued awards has been the Azure Dillon Scholarship. Azure was an outstanding member of the Penobscot County 4-H, where she was admired and respected for her leadership, enthusiasm, determination, and knowledge of animal husbandry. She raised a large flock of Southdown sheep on Silver Mist Farm in Exeter. Azure traveled throughout the state of Maine exhibiting her flock at numerous summer fairs ending with Fryeburg Fair in the fall. Azure served as Secretary of her club for several years, was a member of the Maine 4-H Teen Council, a member of the New England Teen Council, as well as a member of the Penobscot County Teen Facilitator’s Council. The Maine 4-H Foundation is honored to award the Azure Dillon Scholarship.
The 2021 recipient is Amelia Duca. She will be attending the University of New Hampshire to study Marine Research Science. Amelia Duca is from Dayton and is attending Kennebunk High School. She has been involved in the York County Shepherds Club, participated in the Acton and Fryeburg Fairs, June Jamboree, and participates in educating others about shearing, fitting, and exhibiting their sheep. School activities include the Holy Spirit Parish Youth Ministry, swim team, music club, jazz band and is a member of the National Honor Society. Amelia has been accepted at University of Maine Orono, University of Southern Maine, Maine Maritime Academy, and the University of New Hampshire and plans to study Marine Biology. A quote from Amelia reads: “4-H has positively impacted my life as it taught me there is no obstacle that I can’t overcome”.
Farm Credit/Gladys E. Conant Scholarship
The Farm Credit of Maine Scholarship is awarded to a Maine 4-Her planning to continue their post-secondary education at a Maine institution and whose objective is to major in a field related to commercial farming, fishing, or forest products, or in another field with the intent to work in businesses related to these industries. Gladys Conant was a dedicated volunteer for over 60 years in Oxford County. She was passionate about helping young people to reach higher aspirations and reached out to every child in the Canton Community. The Maine 4-H Foundation is honored to award the Farm Credit and Gladys E. Conant Scholarship.
The 2021 recipient is Abigail Decrow. She will be studying animal science at the University of Southern Maine. Abigail Decrow is from Gorham and is attending Gorham High School. She is a member of Cumberland County Rabbit Breeders Association and volunteers at the Cumberland County Fair in the Rabbit Barn. She has also participated in the 4-H kitchen as well as in the pig raffle booth and exhibition hall. She has been involved in the Summer of Science Program for the past 2 years, she is a Girl Scout and is a member of the Merry Makers 4-H Club. In school she has been involved in lacrosse, the boy’s ice hockey manager, plays field hockey, and has her blue belt in Karate. Abigail plans on studying in the field of education. A quote from Abigail reads “4-H forced me out of my comfort zone and pushed me to be more independent and confident”.
Morna Kimball Rawcliffe Scholarship
Our next scholarship is in memory of Morna Kimball Rawcliffe. Morna truly embraced a youthful spirit and sense of adventure. She loved the outdoors and taught her children to swim, dive, paddle, row, ski, skate, light campfires, make lean-tos, and generally fostered a love of the outdoors at Swan Lake. She graduated as Salutatorian from Hampden Academy, and the University of Maine in 1948. At the University of Maine where she truly excelled in athletics, Morna was an All-Maine basketball and All-Maine field hockey player, she also excelled at volleyball, tumbling, and modern dance. As the first women’s physical education teacher at Hampden Academy, she coached basketball and developed/coached field hockey, gymnastics, volleyball, and track programs. The Maine 4-H Foundation is honored to award the Morna Rawcliffe scholarship in her memory and in recognition of her family, Carla and Danny Lafayette.
The 2021 recipient is Mallory Williams. She will be attending Thomas College to study Math. She plans to teach math in the future. Mallory Williams is from Hodgdon and attends Hodgdon High School. Mallory has been involved in the FFA Hodgdon Chapter holding seats as secretary, VP, and President. She is a member of the Pony Club, Pine and Spurs Club, and the Aroostook Riding Club. She has won many riding awards through 4-H. In school, she is a member of the National Honor Society. Mallory has been accepted at Thomas College, University of Maine Farmington, Presque Isle, and Orono and would like to be a math teacher. A quote from Mallory reads: ”4-H has shaped me and who I am, I don’t know where I would be without 4-H.”
Frederick E. Hutchinson 4-H Scholarship and the Wayne S. Rich Scholarship
The Frederick E. Hutchinson Memorial 4-H Scholarship Fund was created in celebration of Dr. Hutchinson’s dedication to the University of Maine and its 4-H youth development program. The fund will provide scholarship aid for deserving undergraduate students attending the University of Maine, who have participated in Maine 4-H. Dr. Frederick E. Hutchinson earned bachelor and master’s degrees from the University of Maine, while benefiting from scholarship assistance facilitated by a University of Maine Cooperative Extension 4-H agent. After several high-level land-grant appointments, Dr. Hutchinson was appointed President of the University of Maine in April 1992 and served until his retirement in 1997. He was a valued member and President of the Board of Trustees of the National 4-H Council. Wayne Rich was a 4-H club agent with Cooperative Extension in both Maine and NH and a longtime supporter of 4-H. He was originally from Maine and relocated in New Hampshire. He was a prominent supporter of youth development and leadership. Member of the Charles F. Allen Society, Pine Tree 4-H Foundation Board of Directors & President, Class of 1934. The Wayne S. Rich Scholarship is awarded to an outstanding Maine or New Hampshire 4-Her for post-secondary study. It is available to a Maine student on odd-numbered years and goes to a New Hampshire student through their 4-H Foundation on even-numbered years. The Maine 4-H Foundation is honored to award the Wayne Rich Scholarship.
The Maine 4-H Foundation is honored to award the Fred Hutchinson and Wayne S. Rich Scholarship award to Forest Perkins. He will be studying Physical Therapy at the University of Maine. Forest Perkins is from Marshfield and attends Washington Academy. Forest has been involved in the 4-H Tech Changemakers, was a Senate Page at the State House. In school he has participated in music as a producer, is a member of the cross-country team, graphic design, web design, marketing, is a black belt in karate and plays the saxophone, piano and guitar. Forest has been accepted at the University of Maine and plans to study athletic training. A quote from Forest reads: “There are so many opportunities offered by this organization that I firmly believe that it is a uniformed decision not to give it a try.”
The Tabitha and Stephen King Foundation Western Maine scholarship
In 2016, the Tabitha and Stephen King Foundation working through the Barking Dog Foundation awarded a new fund with the Maine 4-H Foundation designed to support young people from Western Maine. Franklin and Somerset counties are working to match these scholarship Funds to grow the fund for the future. Stephen and Tabitha King have been long-time supporters of 4-H and youth higher aspirations. The Maine 4-H Foundation is honored to award the Stephen and Tabitha King Scholarship.
The 2021 recipient is Fiona Larson. She is attending the University of San Francisco to study Nursing. Fiona Larson is from Portland and attends Portland High School. Fiona has been involved in the 4-H Dairy Program and is the club secretary, and has served on the works committee and the Ossipiee display committee. She has presented on many topics which include dairy science, climate change, community service opportunities, coordinated volunteer opportunities including a Voice Drive. She has also received a number of 4-H dairy awards. She is also involved in leadership activities at school and is a member of the ballet program. Fiona was also accepted at the University of Southern Maine, Simmons University, and the University of Vermont and plans to study nursing. A quote from Fiona reads: “4-H has instilled in me a commitment to service, education, community, and personal growth and has made me a braver, more confident, and more purposeful person.”
The Carla and Danny Lafayette 4-H Scholarship
Carla and Danny Lafayette have a tremendous history of supporting the Maine 4-H Foundation and the University of Maine. Together they have supported new initiatives including science and engineering and the aspirations of amazing 4-H members across Maine. Carla has been President and a board member of the Maine 4-H Foundation for many years and is passionate about the education and success of young people today. Carla and Danny began the Lafayette 4-H STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Endowment in 2013. This scholarship is donated in support from Lafayette Hotels and Resorts. The Maine 4-H Foundation proudly presents the Carla and Danny Lafayette scholarship.
The 2021 recipient is Amanda Winslow. She will be attending Thomas College to study Math and Actuarial Science. Amanda Winslow is from Mapleton and attends Presque Isle High School. Amanda has been involved in the 4-H Dairy Club, the baby beef club, and the Presque Isle chapter of the Future Farmers of America (FFA). She has been involved in many club projects including, beef steer, goat, and sheep livestock, woodworking, wool, garden art and has held many office positions in the beef and dairy clubs as well as winning many awards. She is involved in the National Honor Society, the cross-country team, track and field, and the nordic ski team. Amanda has been accepted at Thomas College, University of Maine at Farmington, and the University of Maine at Presque Isle and will study Actuarial Science/Applied Mathematics. A quote from Amanda reads: “Above all else, being a member of 4-H has taught me the skill of learning to learn.”
Dr. Harold and Marion Chute Scholarship
Marion and the late Dr. Harold Chute have been long time supporters of the Maine 4-H Foundation. Originally from Nova Scotia, both Marion and Harold love animals, are committed to 4-H and family. Raising three children, Marion continues today to be very involved in the lives of her family and two grandchildren. Harold was past president, past treasurer and trustee of the Maine 4-H Foundation, was elected as an Honorary Member of the University of Maine Foundation. As a member of the Maine 4-H Foundation Harold was dedicated to the solid financial management of the investments. He worked hard to have the funds grow to support as many young people in 4-H as possible. It is the honor of the Maine 4-H Foundation to award the Marion and Harold Chute Scholarship.
The 2021 recipient is Izabelle Higgins. She will be studying Equine Science and Management at the University of Kentucky. Izabelle Higgins is from Westfield and is attending Presque Isle High School. She has been involved in the American Quarter Horse Associations, held officer roles in the Maine Eventers Club, Maine 4-H Equine Team Member winner as well as many other 4-H equine awards. In school she is a member of the alpine ski team and Agriscience Student of the Year winner. She is a ski instructor and tutors children during the summer and is also employed as a greenhouse attendant. Izabelle has been accepted to the University of Kentucky, University of Findlay, University of Louisville, Cazenovia College, and the University of Maine Orono and is interested in studying Equine Nutrition. A quote from Izabelle reads: “4-H has given me the base building blocks to be successful and I plan on taking that foundation and running with it.”
4-H Agricultural Threshold of Maine RC&D Scholarship Fund
The new 4-H Agricultural RC&D Scholarship Endowment Fund was established by the Threshold of Maine Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) in 2018. The Threshold of Maine Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) have a valued connection to the 4-H and Agricultural community in Maine. They have been involved in agricultural support and education for many years. In addition, their dedication has included support and volunteer efforts with agricultural programs. The fund is established to further promote agricultural education in Maine through 4-H and encourages the fund’s growth through additional donations and sponsors. The 2021 recipient will also be awarded the Audrey and Clayton Macintyre Scholarship was established for 2015 by their daughter Jane MacIntyre Kirkland. Audrey and Clayton have been long-time supporters of 4-H in Western Maine and recognize the importance of supporting our Maine youth as they go on to higher education.
The 2021 recipient is Emily Gould. She will be studying Veterinary Technology at the University of Maine in Augusta. Emily Gould is from Burnham and attends Maine Central Institute. Emily has been involved in the 4-H horse program including barrel racing, show jumping, and equitation shows. She has attended horse camps, and has worked teaching kids to care for horses as well as presented many horse clinics. She is CPR/First Aid trained and is working on being EMT certified. She is also attended the R.A.D. Defense course. Emily has been accepted to the University of Maine at Augusta and will study Veterinary Technology. A quote from Emily reads: “I have had a lot of cool experiences in 4-H. Things most kids don’t get to experience.”
Doris Roberts, H. Lawrence, George and Barbara Lawrence Humphrey 4-H Scholarship
The Doris Roberts, H. Lawrence, and George and Barbara Lawrence Humphrey 4-H Scholarship Endowment was established in 2005 with a gift donated in their memory by Ms. Gene Humphrey of Gray, Maine. The Humphrey Family has a long history with 4-H youth development education and farming in Maine. The family had an active farm in Grey Maine and continues to support 4-H Beef Farming on the property today in partnership with the Gallagher family and farm. The scholarship recognizes outstanding 4-H members who plan to attend the University of Maine.
The 2021 recipient is Ashton Caron. Ashton will be attending the University of Maine to study Agriculture and Biomedical studies. Ashton Caron is from Corinna and attends Nokomis Regional High School. Ashton has been involved in the 4-H beef program. He has served in many clubs including beef, dairy, livestock, market steer, market lamb, market hog, and sheep. He has won many awards ranging from public speaking, science fair, GPS competitions and community service project awards. Ashton has been accepted at the University of Maine Orono, Blackhawk East, Oklahoma State University, Albany School of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, Suny Cobleskill and Husson University and plans to study Agribusiness and Biomedical Engineering. A quote from Ashton reads: “I will be successful because of the impact 4-H has had on me.”
Jeremy Strater Washington County Scholarship
The Jeremy Strater Scholarship was created through a gift bestowed to the Washington County Extension Association. Jeremy Strater was a long-time supporter of Cooperative Extension. This scholarship is designed to support Washington County 4-H member scholarships for post-secondary study. Preference will be given to graduating high school seniors from Washington County 4-H, and students are eligible for the scholarship once during their college career.
The Jeremy Strater Scholarship is awarded to Samuel Perkins. Samuel will be studying Biology and Optometry at the University of Maine in Orono. Samuel Perkins is from Cooper and attends Washington Academy. Sam has been involved in the 4-H Tech Changemakers, attended summits in Washington DC on Healthy Living, CWF, working with teens on mental health through #empowering-me-and-you. In school he is a member of the soccer and tennis teams, a member of the National Honor Society, is in the band, plays the piano, is his class president, and is a member of Teens4Christ. Sam has been accepted to the University of Maine and plans to study Optometry. A quote from Sam reads: “I will take the lessons I have learned through 4-H throughout the remainder of my life.”
County Scholarships
There are a number of County Scholarships being presented this year on behalf of county scholarship funds. Local county committees recognize the strengths of our 4-H members and have input into the selection of a county award winner.
Oxton Trust
The first is the Oxton Trust Scholarship recognizing a young person from Knox and /or Lincoln County. We would like to thank the Oxton Trust and local county volunteers.
This year, the Oxton Trust Scholarship will be awarded to Arianna Cloutier. She will be attending Husson for Biology and Pre-medicine. Adrianna Cloutier is from Warren and attends Oceanside High School. Adrianna has been involved in many 4-H community service projects from volunteering to clean the 4-H building, weeding the grounds, Kids Can Grow and public speaking events. In school, she is involved in photography, Key Club, cheerleading and has participated in many volunteer projects in her community. Adrianna has been accepted at Husson University, Johnson & Wales University, Roanoke College, and the University of Maine and plans to study Biology/Pre-Med. A quote from Adrianna reads: “4-H has definitely impacted my life for the better.”
Oxford County
Oxford County developed a scholarship fund many years ago and is pleased to support the youth aspirations of local young people. We would like to thank the Oxford County Fund and local county volunteers.
The 2021 recipient is Jacob Mitchell. Jacob is studying Music and Pre-med at the University of Maryland. Jacob Mitchell is from Falmouth and attended Falmouth High School. He has been involved in CWF and is a Community Outreach Director on the Sail Committee. He has attended many 4-H camps including the 4-H Discovery Club, was a Big E performer and currently is a Youth Trustee with the Maine 4-H Foundation. In school, he was a member of the Nordic Ski Team, FGS Theater Company, and the cross-country Team. Jacob attends the University of Maryland. A quote from Jacob reads: “My 4-H experiences have helped me grow as a leader.”
Penobscot County
Penobscot Leader’s Association (Awarded by the county) has dedicated funds to support scholarships this year with matching scholarships from the Maine 4-H Foundation Bahre Scholarship Funds. Dedicated volunteers from the Leader’s Association and donors like the Bahre Family make it possible for us to award more scholarships in support of our amazing 4-H members. Penobscot County Awards are partnered with the Bahre Family Scholarships to provide a minimum of $1,000 to each scholarship recipient.
The first Penobscot Leader’s Association Scholarship is awarded to Abigail Williams. She will be attending Florida College in Temple Terrace to study Elementary Education. Abigail Williams is from Bangor and is home schooled. Abigail has been involved in the Penobscot Valley Homeschool Association (PVHA) 4-H Club and has served as the Secretary with the teen’s group, has served as a leader for art projects with elementary students and led gym time classes. She has also volunteered and participated at old Macdonald’s Farm with the Bangor State Fair, was a Page at the Maine Senate, participated in the 4-H-fest in Bangor, and served in many other various projects offered by PVHA. Abigail has been accepted at Florida College and plans to study Elementary Education. A quote from Abigail reads: “I learned in 4-H that anyone can give back to their community, no matter how young they are.”
The second Penobscot Leaders Association Scholarship is awarded to Mary Kate Smith. She will be attending the University of Maine at Farmington to study liberal arts. Mary-Kate Smith is from Orono and attends Orono High School. Mary Kate has been involved in 4-H at UMaine as a teen leader, she has held the secretary and VP seats of the Hands and Hooves 4-H Club and is the president of the Shoes N Shears 4-H Club. She is a member of the field hockey team, basketball team, Key Club, Riot Buddies, and a junior counselor with the Youth Guard program. Mary Kate has been accepted to the University of Maine Farmington, University of Southern Maine, and the University of Maine and will study library and technical studies. A quote from Mary- Kate reads: “I will be forever grateful for the experiences and opportunities 4-H has given me.”