Family helps students live dreams at NMCC
PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Thanks to the generosity of a New Sweden family, their friends, acquaintances and a caring community, a large donation has been made to a memorial scholarship fund at Northern Maine Community College.
Alan and Lynn Turnbull have presented a $10,000 check for the Livin’ the Dream scholarship fund. The money was raised during a benefit dance and auction held in March 2016 to honor the life of their son, Matthew Turnbull, who died in an auto accident at age 23. Matthew was a graduate of NMCC.
“Of course the feeling of loss never goes away, but working on something that was meaningful to our son is helpful,” said Lynn Turnbull. “Matthew loved his time at NMCC so our family is thrilled to help students who are moving along the same career path as Matthew.”
“It’s been heartwarming to witness the generosity of the business community through their contributions, and the people who turn out to support our auction and dance. We couldn’t put this together without the entertainment donated by Matthew’s best friends and favorite band, Common Crossing,” said Alan Turnbull. “It’s a wonderful tribute for a good cause.”
The Livin’ the Dream scholarship became endowed after the first fundraiser was held three years ago. Scholarships are awarded to two students enrolled in a Trade and Technical Occupations program who demonstrate financial need—one from Caribou High School and the other from anywhere in Aroostook County.
“We’re very grateful to the Turnbull family who is turning their heartbreak into opportunities for students to attend with financial assistance from this scholarship,” said Gregg Collins, NMCC Foundation Chair. “Their commitment and generosity is a wonderful example of how to put enduring love to work.”
Donations can be made to the Livin’ the Dream Scholarship fund through the NMCC Foundation, 33 Edgemont Drive, Presque Isle.
