New fund to Support Adult Learners at WCCC and EMCC

June 5, 2015

MCCS Foundation

SOUTH PORTLAND, ME — A $2,000,000 gift from the Next Generation Foundation has enabled the Maine Community Foundation (MaineCF) to establish an endowed scholarship fund to support adult learners. Initially, the Adult College Completion Fund will benefit students at Eastern Maine Community College and Washington County Community College. Through an agreement with the community foundation, The Foundation for Maine’s Community Colleges will award the scholarships.

“Supporting adult learners in their pursuit of a post-secondary education is a new focus for the Maine Community Foundation,” said Meredith Jones, MaineCF president and CEO. “We know that the Community College System is a critical entry point for many adults, and this fund allows us to support students who are focused on success,” she said.

The Adult College Completion Fund will provide recipients with annual scholarships of $3,500, renewable for up to three years.  Both schools will select five recipients each year. The community foundation expects approximately $80,000 in financial aid to be available annually. To be eligible, students must be Maine residents, have completed the colleges’ Summer Success Academies, and meet MaineCF adult learner criteria.

“By investing in non-traditional students who are juggling work and family commitments in addition to their academic work, the Adult College Completion Fund will provide critical financial assistance,” said Jane B. Phillips, president of The Foundation for Maine’s Community Colleges.  “The fund is also sending a powerful message,” added Phillips, “namely, that others believe in these learners and their ability to reach their educational goals.”

More information about the Adult College Completion Fund is available through the admissions offices at EMCC in Bangor (207-974-4680) and WCCC in Calais (207-454-1000).

A statewide organization with offices in Ellsworth and Portland, the Maine Community Foundation works with donors and other partners to improve the quality of life for all Maine people. To learn more, visit www.mainecf.org or call 1-877-700-6800.

The Foundation for Maine’s Community Colleges is dedicated to ensuring that Maine’s seven community colleges have the resources they need to provide a high quality, affordable, and accessible college education for Maine people. For information about FMCC, visit www.maineccfoundation.org.   MCCS Foundation #1