PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — The Aroostook Aspirations Initiative’s Gauvin Scholars appreciate staying close to their roots while seeking their educational and career goals.
“Staying in Aroostook County is important to me because it is home and I want to stay close to my family,” said Stacy Landry, 2015 Gauvin Scholar. “I love how close knit our community is.”
Landry is a graduate of Washburn District High School, and recently graduated from Northern Maine Community College (NMCC) with an associate’s degree in early childhood education. She plans to attend NMCC for one more year to complete some general education classes, and then transfer to the University of Maine at Presque Isle to obtain her bachelor’s degree in education.
“My plan after getting my bachelor’s degree is to work in a school system,” said Landry. “While being in school I have done work study, and hope to continue with it in the future. I have also thought about getting a part-time job that involves working with kids now that I have my associate’s degree.”
Stacy was also a part of Phi Theta Kappa during her time at NMCC. She received the Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges Award. While she is proud of her accomplishments, she attributes her ability to adapt to college life to the Gauvin Scholar program.
“Becoming a Gauvin Scholar gave me not only the Aroostook Aspirations Initiative team as support, but also many new friends that I made through Scholar Weekends,” said Landry. “Becoming friends with other Scholars makes it nice in the first few weeks to see a familiar face around campus, and develop friendships throughout these college years.”
Aroostook Aspirations Initiative’s executive director, Kristen Wells, says giving Scholars the support system they need is important in ensuring their success throughout college.
“Stacy has such a great attitude and infectious positivity. She loves working with children and education is such a natural fit for her,” said Wells. “She handles challenges with steady patience and persistence. We are fortunate that she has chosen Aroostook County to learn, work, and live.”
“Being a Scholar also allows me to have a chance to meet many people who have an enormous influence in this place I call home, and meet people who provide useful advice to me through college,” said Landry.
To learn more, visit gauvinfund.org, like them on Facebook, follow them on Twitter AAI/GauvinFund or e-mail them at info@gauvinfund.org. Donations can be made online, in person at AAI, 754 Main Street Presque Isle, or by mail: 26 North Street Box 138, Presque Isle, ME 04769.
