Delma Lee Maine Memorial Scholarship
Established February 14, 2026
Honoring a legacy of lifelong learning, service, and transformative impact.
This annual scholarship recognizes students who embody the belief that education is never finished, growth is continuous, and meaningful service strengthens communities. Rooted in the enduring values of humility, curiosity, and commitment, this award carries forward a legacy that extends far beyond the classroom.
A Legacy Worth Celebrating
Established on February 14, 2026, the Delma Lee Maine Memorial Scholarship marks the beginning of an annual tradition dedicated to honoring a man who understood the transformative power of education.
Delma Lee Maine was not simply an advocate for learning. He embodied it.
He believed education was never finished. He often reminded others that learning did not end with a diploma and that wisdom could be found in anyone, regardless of status or position. To him, growth was not tied to titles, degrees, or recognition. It was rooted in humility, curiosity, and a willingness to listen.
Throughout his life, he championed academic excellence, professional development, and meaningful service. He invested in others generously, believing that when one person grows, entire communities are strengthened and uplifted.
This scholarship continues that legacy by recognizing and supporting students who reflect those same values: dedication to education, commitment to service, and an unwavering pursuit of personal growth.
His legacy lives on not only in memory, but in every student who chooses to pursue excellence with integrity and serve others with humility.
Scholarship Overview
Award Amount
$1,000
Financial support designed to help fuel your educational aspirations and reduce the burden of college expenses.
Application Deadline
March 31, 2026
Submit your complete application package by this date to be considered for the award.
Winner Announcement
April 26, 2026
Recipients will be announced on Delma Lee Maine's birthday, making the celebration even more meaningful.
This scholarship represents more than financial assistance. It is a recognition of your dedication to education and service, and an investment in the positive impact you'll make in your community and beyond.
Who Can Apply?
We are looking for students who demonstrate academic excellence, community engagement, and a genuine commitment to making a difference. If you're passionate about learning and dedicated to serving others, this opportunity is for you.
Educational Status
You must be a U.S. high school senior preparing for college or a currently enrolled undergraduate student pursuing your degree.
Academic Achievement
Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, demonstrating your dedication to academic excellence and consistent effort in your studies.
Community Service
Complete at least 15 hours of documented community service within the past 24 months, showing your commitment to giving back.
Core Values
Demonstrate a genuine commitment to education, service, and personal growth through your actions and achievements.
Eligibility at a Glance
Academic Requirements
  • U.S. high school senior or undergraduate student
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Demonstrated commitment to academic excellence and clearly defined educational goals
Service Requirements
  • 15+ hours of community service
  • Service completed within past 24 months
  • Documented and verifiable activities
  • Demonstrated impact in your community

Important Note: All eligibility criteria must be met at the time of application submission. Incomplete applications or those missing required documentation will not be considered.
What You'll Need to Submit
Preparing a strong application is straightforward when you know what's required. Here's everything you need to gather to present your best self to the scholarship committee.
Complete Application Form
Fill out all sections of the official application form with accurate, up-to-date information about your educational background and achievements.
Academic Records
Provide your official transcript or most recent report card showing your cumulative GPA and coursework. Records must clearly display your minimum 3.0 GPA.
Service Verification
Submit documentation of your community service hours, including dates, organizations, activities performed, and supervisor contact information for verification.
Personal Response
Choose between writing a 750-900 word essay or creating a 2 to 3 minute video responding to the scholarship prompt.
Your Story Matters
The Prompt
"The Power of Support in My Educational Journey"
Essay Option
750 to 900 words
Video Option
2 to 3 minutes
What We Want to See and/or Hear
Take this opportunity to reflect deeply on the people and communities who have shaped your educational path. Think about the teachers who stayed after class to help you understand a difficult concept. Consider the family members who sacrificed to ensure you had what you needed. Remember the mentors who believed in you when you doubted yourself.
Your response should be authentic and personal. Share specific examples of how encouragement or guidance has influenced your academic goals, sparked your personal growth, or shaped your future aspirations. We want to understand not just what support you received, but how it transformed your perspective and motivated your journey.
Whether you choose to write an essay or create a video, let your genuine voice shine through. This is your chance to help us see the world through your eyes and understand what drives your commitment to education and service.
Making Your Application Shine
Standing out in a scholarship application requires thoughtfulness, authenticity, and attention to detail. Here are strategies to help your submission make a lasting impression on the review committee.
Be Authentic
Share your genuine story and experiences. The committee wants to know the real you, not a polished version you think they want to see. Honesty and vulnerability create powerful connections.
Show Specific Impact
Use concrete examples and detailed stories rather than general statements. Instead of saying "volunteering taught me leadership," describe the moment you realized you could inspire others to action.
Connect to Values
Demonstrate how your experiences align with the scholarship's core values of education, service, and personal growth. Show how you embody Delma Lee Maine's legacy through your actions.
Review Carefully
Proofread your essay multiple times or watch your video several times before submitting. Check that all required documents are included and that your application is complete.
Important Dates & Timeline
Mark these critical dates in your calendar to ensure you don't miss this opportunity. We recommend starting your application early to allow time for thoughtful reflection, gathering documentation, and careful review before submission.
Planning Your Timeline
January to February: Begin gathering your transcripts, community service documentation, and brainstorming your essay or video response.
March 1 to 15: Draft and refine your essay or create and edit your video. Have trusted mentors or teachers review your work.
March 16 to 30: Complete final revisions, compile all documents, and submit your application well before the deadline.
After You Apply
Once you submit your application, our review committee will carefully evaluate each submission based on academic achievement, community service impact, and the quality of your personal response.
All applicants will be notified of the committee's decision by email. The scholarship recipient will be announced on April 26, 2026, a date that holds special significance as we celebrate Delma Lee Maine's birthday and his enduring legacy.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
The Delma Lee Maine Memorial Scholarship represents more than financial support. It is a recognition of dedication, service, and the belief that education is a lifelong pursuit.
This opportunity honors students who work diligently in their studies, invest in their communities, and strive for continuous personal growth. It celebrates those who understand that achievement is not only measured by accolades, but by character, humility, and a commitment to making a meaningful difference.
If you are a student who believes that learning never truly ends and that service strengthens communities, we encourage you to apply. Your story matters. Your growth matters. Your commitment to education matters.
Questions?
For clarification on eligibility requirements or application materials, please reach out for guidance. We are here to support you throughout the process.
Email: contact@maineeducationlegacy.org
Stay Connected
Follow this page for updates and announcements to stay informed about important deadlines and scholarship news.
Start Your Application
The Delma Lee Maine Memorial Scholarship supports students who demonstrate academic excellence, community commitment, and a spirit of lifelong learning. We look forward to learning about your journey and celebrating your dedication.