PORTLAND, Maine — Serena Lufkin, Hodgdon Middle/High School Class of 2021, was awarded a Mainely Character Scholarship for $5,000.
This is the largest amount of 14 statewide awards. Mainely Character Scholarships are awarded annually to Maine high school seniors who demonstrate exemplary concern for others, responsibility, integrity and courage. Lufkin was selected from 375 scholarship applicants statewide; her scholarship is sponsored by 100+ Women Who Care.
100+ Women Who Care is proud to support Lufkin, she has overcome incredible obstacles to become a woman of character and she will make her community better, commented
Lufkin became a caregiver at a young age. Her mother had a serious heart condition. She took care of her until her death last year. She now helps care for her younger brother, the son of her older brother and an elderly neighbor.
Lufkin grew up in a chaotic home. She moved frequently and was homeless at times. She was bullied by classmates but Lufkin found her voice in sixth grade and began setting goals for herself.
In high school she worked part-time, helped with family finances and studied hard. She was actively involved in Jobs for Maine Graduates and was named to the National Honor Society.
Lufkin learned that helping others relieved her depression. She shares what she’s learned with other struggling students. She started an online chat group for other teens with depression.
Lufkin will attend the University of Maine-Presque Isle in the fall.
Mainely Character has been awarding scholarships to students of character since 2001. Fourteen scholarships are being awarded in 2021. For more information visit mainelycharacter.org.
