Margaret Chase Smith Policy Center

The Maine Policy Scholars program is a year-long research scholarship in which a student from each of the seven University of Maine System campuses, working closely with a faculty advisor, examines an issue of public policy relevance to Maine and delivers a final report and presentation. The Maine Policy Scholars program is a collaboration between the Center and the Maine Community Foundation. The program was conceived by the late Peter Cox as a means of engaging students in the public policy process.

Scholarship funding: $1500 toward tuition, $1000 travel expense reimbursement

Applications: due in October, Program runs January – November

After conducting research—which can be from the literature, data analysis, or interviews (or all three)—the scholar produces a final policy memo which outlines the problem, the data, and recommended solutions. Topics can be of local or statewide significance, should be well-defined, subject to research, and of real concern to Maine or a segment of its people.

Faculty advisors meet regularly with the student throughout the year-long program. All scholars and academic advisors convene on at least three occasions. Scholars identify community practitioners who serve as mentors and as a “reality check” on the scholars’ work.

Contact:

Peggy McKee
207.581.1644
margaret.mckee@maine.edu