Chantelle Flores has found that her time at UMaine has been shaped by opportunities made possible through donor support.
“The scholarship has allowed me to focus on the experiences and opportunities most fulfilling to me without constantly stressing over tuition or debt,” she explained. This support enabled her to take on roles such as co-editor-in-chief for Spire: The Maine Journal of Conservation and Sustainability and editor of The Open Field, while also continuing to tutor at UMaine’s Writing Center, pursuing the McGillicuddy Humanities Fellowship, and completing her first artist residency with The Monson Seminar at Monson Arts.
Looking ahead, she plans to pursue graduate studies and a Ph.D. in art history with the goal of becoming a college professor of contemporary art history and an author.
Receiving the Clarine Coffin Grenfell ‘32 Poetry Prize and Speaker Fund was especially meaningful for Chantelle, as it recognized her creative achievements and passion for poetry. The award provided both encouragement and validation for her work, inspiring her to continue exploring the intersections of art, writing, and health through her research. It also allowed her to share her voice more confidently within the UMaine community and beyond, reinforcing her goal of pursuing a Ph.D. in art history and becoming a professor who empowers future generations of artists and scholars.
Grateful for donor generosity, she adds, “The support of donors has allowed me to fully embrace and enjoy my undergraduate experience. I would not be able to conduct my research and creative projects without it. Someday, I hope to pass along the support I’ve received to future students. If you’re a donor thinking of creating a scholarship, you’ll create an amazingly positive impact for so many students like me. Thank you!”
Editors Note: Chantelle is from Oakland, Maine and received the Clarine Coffin Grenfell ‘32 Poetry Prize and Speaker Fund
