The Maine State Society of Washington, D.C. Foundation was incorporated in 1989, with a Board of Directors led by 12 members of the Maine State Society of Washington, D.C. In line with its mission, the Foundation established a scholarship program in 1990 to recognize and support Maine students attending Maine colleges and universities. Over the course of 30 years, the Foundation has awarded more than $242,000 in scholarship funds to more than 200 students. These scholarships, ranging from $1,000 to $2,500, were awarded to full-time students who completed at least one year of undergraduate courses at a four-year degree granting, non-profit institution of higher learning in the State of Maine. Scholarships were funded by generous donations from members of the Maine State Society of Washington, D.C., and other lovers of the state of Maine and supporters of tomorrow’s leaders. In 2020, the Board of the Foundation decided on a new administrative path to preserve and continue the legacy, mission, and spirit of this work. The scholarship program will continue to be run as it has been, but as a new committee within the Maine State Society of Washington, D.C. A new endowed fund held at the University of Maine Foundation will significantly reduce administrative responsibilities, which will allow volunteers to focus on managing the scholarship program. Our mission to support scholars at schools across Maine will continue unchanged despite this administrative transition.
The Marjorie Pearson Memorial Scholarship will continue to be awarded on the basis of superior volunteer leadership, as well as a passion for the State of Maine. The named scholarship honors the legacy of Marjorie Pearson, who was a dedicated supporter of the Maine State Society of Washington, D.C. and one of the original directors of the Foundation.