AUGUSTA — Sen. Bruce Bryant (D-Dixfield) recognized Darlene Whitaker of Dixfield as the Oxford County recipient of the Legislative Memorial Scholarship.

The scholarship fund was established in 1995 to make scholarship awards available to Maine residents attending any accredited Maine institution of higher education.

“I am extremely pleased to be able to help reward Darlene,” Bryant commented, “and to be able to help her achieve her goals. The cost of higher education can be a burden, and every little bit can help.”

All funds for the scholarship have been raised through an annual auction held in Augusta.  Legislators, staff and lobbyists participate in the event by soliciting and making donations, organizing and auctioneering.  Hundreds of items are donated, many of them “made in Maine.” The auctions have made it possible for 16 students, one from each county, to receive as much as a $1,000 award.

Whitaker is attending the University of Maine in Augusta. “Having someone from my hometown receive this scholarship is especially rewarding” Bryant noted, “and it sends a great message to the residents of my county. I really believe this is one of the most important events of our legislative session and I am so pleased to help someone in this way.”