PORTLAND – One hundred thirty Maine high school students have been chosen as 2004 Mitchell Scholars.

The Mitchell Institute annually provides scholarships to one student from every public high school in the state. The scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic potential, community service and financial need.

During each year of their full-time enrollment toward a post-secondary degree, the Mitchell Institute provides scholarship recipients with $1,000 of financial assistance for a maximum of $4,000.

Aimee Carter, a recent graduate of Leavitt Area High School, has been selected as the 2004 Buzz Fitzgerald-Bath Iron Works Pioneer Mitchell Scholar in recognition of her leadership qualities.

“These are students for whom the scholarship will make a real difference and who will, in turn, make a difference in their communities,” said Sen. Mitchell. “My family had few financial resources. Neither of my parents finished high school, but they believed in education. With their help and the help of others, I was able to go to college, and it changed my life. Maine’s young people deserve the same opportunity to succeed.”

2004 Mitchell Scholars are:

In Androscoggin County: Amber Baxter, Lisbon High School; Aimee Carter, Leavitt Area High School; Matthew Colby, Edward Little High School; Joseph Lee, Lewiston High School; Samantha Mason, Oak Hill High School; Kevin Mitchell, Poland Regional High School; and Kara Timberlake, Livermore Falls High School.

In Franklin County: David Fish, Mount Blue High School; Janna Gilbert, Jay High School; Brian White, Rangeley High School; and Joanna White, Mount Abram High School.

In Oxford County: Leah Jutras, Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School; Megan Kelly, Telstar Regional High School; Milissa Lewis, Sacopee Valley High School; Amanda Marchetti, Dirigo High School; Ann Remillard, Fryeburg Academy; Desiree St. Cyr, Mountain Valley High School; and Leslie Workman, Buckfield High School.