Memory of Class of ’60 Alumnus Honored Through Creation of New Scholarship at The University of Maine

As a student at Bridgton Academy, Lincoln David Michaud ’60, inspired not only his fellow classmates, but the community at large when he would launch his canoe in nearby Harrison and paddle across the lake to attend classes at Bridgton Academy.  His dedication to his education did not stop at the shores of Long Lake, however.  Once on campus, Lincoln worked tirelessly on his studies; always mindful of the value of his education.  Prior to his graduation from the Academy, Lincoln even penned the 1960 ‘Class Ode’ – offering a tribute to the school he so cherished.

More than half a century later, Lincoln’s dedication to Bridgton Academy endures through the creation of The Lincoln David Michaud Scholarship Fund  at The University of Maine, established in his memory by his sister, Lola Orcutt, through the University of Maine Foundation.

Coming from a very modest background as one of ten children, Lincoln recognized that he was lucky to study at Bridgton Academy.  The opportunity he had to learn and grow on this campus for more than two years was one he considered to be a privilege.  The lessons Lincoln learned on our humble campus on the hill in North Bridgton went on to serve him for the rest of his life, and helped formulate the work ethic that became synonymous with his name.   While at Bridgton, Lincoln immersed himself in extracurricular activities, including cross-country, Student Council and the Gold Key Club.  Lincoln’s love of music also found him as a member of Bridgton’s Glee Club and Barbershop Quartet.

After graduating from Bridgton, Lincoln went on to serve his country in the U.S. Army, stationed in Ethiopia as a Morse Code Interceptor.  Lincoln returned to Maine after his honorable discharge from the service where he worked as a carpenter and Maine Guide, and helped to support his mother and younger siblings.  Eventually, Lincoln found his way to New Mexico where he purchased a small pecan farm in Mesilla Park.  He became a regular at local farmers’ markets in the Las Cruces and Mesilla area.  He later became involved in the organization of the farmers’ market vendors and was on the board of the Farmers’ and Crafts Market of Las Cruces.  Lincoln became a respected face in his adopted town – known for building homes, his delicious pecans, impressive photography and, most of all, “as someone who would give you the shirt off his back, if you wanted or needed it,” according to the Las Crucens who knew him best.

Earlier this year, on March 29^th, Lincoln passed away tragically due to injuries sustained in an automobile accident.  Shortly after his death, Lola Orcutt, the youngest of Lincoln’s nine siblings, created the Lincoln David Michaud Scholarship Fund at The University of Maine in memory of her brother.  “I know the value of the enduring memory a scholarship leaves behind,” stated Lola.  In honor of her brother’s love for the outdoors, his drive and determination to succeed in the face of adversity, and his admirable work ethic, this scholarship will be awarded to a deserving Bridgton Academy graduate who demonstrates financial need, and chooses to pursue his studies at the College of Natural Sciences, Forestry and Agriculture at The University of Maine.

The entire Bridgton Academy community wishes to extend its heartfelt gratitude to Lola Orcutt for honoring the memory of her beloved brother and creating a lasting partnership between the Academy and The University of Maine through the establishment of this fund.