The Fort Kent Community High School Class of 1961 celebrated its 65th reunion July 31 by surpassing an ambitious fundraising goal to endow a University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) scholarship honoring their late classmate, Dr. Nelson Madore.
The class raised $7,093 through its Legacy65 campaign, exceeding its $5,000 goal by $2,093. Combined with gifts made by classmates in previous years, the campaign proceeds will allow the scholarship to be converted to an endowed fund administered by the UMFK Foundation. The endowment will provide a permanent source of scholarship support for future UMFK students.
“The Class of 1961 turned a reunion milestone into a promise to future generations,” said Michael Elliott, Executive Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations at UMFK. “Their generosity will help local students begin their college education close to home while carrying forward Dr. Madore’s belief in education, service and community. We are deeply grateful for the class’s vision and for the enduring difference this scholarship will make in the lives of UMFK students and their families.”
Classmates established the scholarship in 2017 and have funded it entirely through their own contributions. The fund provides a $1,000 scholarship to a graduating Fort Kent Community High School senior who enrolls at UMFK. Ten students have received scholarships since the program began.
In 2021, the class renamed the fund the Dr. Nelson Madore Scholarship Fund in memory of Madore, who died Dec. 24, 2020, at age 77.
“Nelson’s achievements — from a small Winterville farm to military hero, devoted father, cherished college professor and committed community leader — represent the best of our 1961 class and a role model for our community,” classmate Norman Marquis said. “Nelson lived the American Dream.”
Madore grew up on his family’s farm in Winterville and graduated from Fort Kent Community High School in 1961. He served in the U.S. Army as a Green Beret, Ranger and paratrooper with the 101st Airborne Division. He later earned a doctorate in education and devoted approximately 40 years to teaching history, government and management at Thomas College in Waterville.
Beyond the classroom, Madore served as an academic adviser and mentor to generations of students. He was also a longtime member and chair of the Waterville School Board and served as mayor of Waterville. His life reflected a sustained commitment to education, public service, family and community.
The success of Legacy65 ensures that the Class of 1961’s generosity and Madore’s example of service and achievement will continue through each UMFK student supported by the endowment.
Visit UMFK online to learn how you can make a lasting impact on students through scholarship or unrestricted support.