LEWISTON – The Franco-American Collection at USM’s Lewiston-Auburn College Board of Directors has announced the creation of a scholarship fund at USM LAC as a tribute to Madeleine D. Gigure.

Board Chairman Normand Beaupré said of the award, “Professor Gigure devoted over two decades of academic research on documenting the Franco-American presence in New England and to the preservation of its history and culture.

“For instance, the establishment and growth of the Franco-American Collection at USM LAC is due in large part to her efforts. She was a remarkable woman, whose contributions deserve to be honored. These scholarships are a fitting memorial to her life’s work.”

The application form is available online at www.usm.maine.edu/lac/franco, or copies may be obtained by calling USM’s Franco-American Collection at 753-6545.

Eligibility requirements include enrollment in a degree program at USM’s Lewiston-Auburn College, demonstrated interest in French North American studies and/or in the local Franco-American community, and maintenance of a 3.0+ grade point average.

Three $1,000 grants will be awarded annually. Preference will be given to students in need of financial aid.

The deadline for the submission of applications is March 1. They should be submitted to the Franco-American Collection, University of Southern Maine, Lewiston-Auburn College, 51 Westminster St., Lewiston, ME 04240.