ELLSWORTH — The Guy P. Gannett Journalism Scholarship Fund of the Maine Community Foundation has awarded $145,000 in scholarships to 16 students, all graduates of Maine high schools. Students receive financial support for graduate and undergraduate studies at schools across the U.S., including Bates College and the University of Maine.

The new 2009 Gannett Scholars are Justin Chenette of Saco, Eliza Duggan of Belfast, Zoe Jennings of Hallowell and Benjamin Pinette of Caribou.

Twelve students had their Gannett scholarships renewed: Benjamin Austin, Houlton; Julia Butler, Biddeford; Adam Clark, Bangor; Esmé Deprez, Portland; H’Rina DeTroy, Brooklyn, N.Y.; Patrick Doyle, Falmouth; Tyler Francke, Stillwater; Bridget Huber, Greene; Nicholas McCrea, Orrington; Kaydi Poirier, Biddeford; Dylan Riley, Blue Hill; and Kegan Zema, South Portland.

All 16 students have been pursuing journalism projects and careers in Maine and elsewhere, reporting for newspapers, radio and TV stations and online news outlets.

A volunteer review committee selected the students based on demonstrated interest in journalism, excellence in academic performance and financial need. Applications for the 2010 Guy P. Gannett Journalism Scholarship will be available in January at high school guidance offices and at www.mainecf.org.