UMaine Black Bear license plates program raises more than $1 million for scholarships
The University of Maine Black Bear license plate program has raised more than $1 million for scholarships to support UMaine students, according to University of Maine Foundation President Jeffery Mills.
Mills made the announcement at the University of Maine Foundation’s annual meeting and luncheon Oct. 16 on campus.
Mills presented commemorative plaques to the Hon. Mary Cathcart for her involvement in the creation of the plate as the original bill sponsor in the Maine Legislature, and to Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap for his continued support of the program.
Mills also thanked the Hon. William O’Gara, who was unable to attend, for his support as the committee chair who sponsored the final bill that created the commemorative license plate.
The Black Bear license plate became available in Maine in 2003.
“People often look at the foundation and think that you have to have wealth in order to make a difference in the support of our programs. This project proves that you can make a difference at any level,” says Mills. “Along with the scholarship support, we are providing an additional way to show our Black Bear pride.”
The initial fee for a Black Bear license plate is $20. Renewals are $15, of which $10 supports the UMaine general scholarship fund. New UMaine students receive a voucher covering the initial cost of a Black Bear plate.
More information about the Black Bear license plate program is online.
Contact: Monique Hashey, 207.581.5104, 207.974.9899; monique@maine.edu