SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine — The Rotary Club of South Portland-Cape Elizabeth has donated $60,000 to the Southern Maine Community College Foundation to fund annual scholarships for SMCC students.
The Rotary Club issued a check to the SMCC Foundation on July 30 to establish the South Portland-Cape Elizabeth Rotary Vocational Scholarship fund. The goal is to award at least two scholarships of $1,500 per year.
“A college education is vital in today’s competitive world,” said SMCC President Joe Cassidy. “This generous gift will benefit students as they pursue their education at a time when a college degree or certification has never been more valuable. We are grateful for this donation that will ease the financial burden on students and allow them to devote more time toward their academic success.”
The Rotary Club for years has provided funding for scholarships for SMCC students, but wanted to formalize its relationship with the College by establishing an endowment that would fund scholarships in perpetuity.
“It is my distinct privilege to present $60,000 to SMCC from our charitable fund,” said Rotary Club President David Bagdasarian. “These scholarships will help students achieve their educational goals, enable the Rotary to support community college education, and enhance our longstanding relationship with SMCC.”
The SMCC Foundation raises money from businesses, civic groups, community leaders and individuals for academic programs, classrooms and equipment, and scholarships for deserving students. People can support the Foundation by calling the Foundation office at 207-741-5559 or through the SMCC Foundation website.
Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) is Maine’s largest and oldest community college. Founded in 1946, SMCC offers courses at its South Portland, Brunswick and online campuses and at community satellite locations. SMCC has among the lowest tuition and fees in New England and offers more than 40 degree and certificate programs, noncredit classes, and workforce and career skills training.
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