Who Can Apply: This scholarship was established in 1995 in memory of Joseph “Chet” Jordan who grew up in Portland, Maine, and spent his leisure time in Patten and Aroostook County, hunting, fishing and snowmobiling. His family and friends established this scholarship to celebrate the rich legacy of his leadership in business and civic affairs in his beloved state of Maine. Chet was a visionary thinker who was actively involved with his family, friends, employees and community. A native of Portland, Chet Jordan attended public schools in South Portland and graduated from South Portland High School in 1945. During his school years, starting at about age 12, Chet worked part time at the family business “Jordan’s Ready-To-Eat Meats.” After graduation from high school, Chet entered the service, just prior to the end of World War II.
After the war ended, he entered the United States Merchant Marine Academy in King’s Point, New York, and graduated in 1948 with a degree in marine engineering. Soon after, Chet went to sea, only to be called back to Portland to reenter the meat business. This time, to take over the company on the untimely death of his father in 1949. Chet was 21 at the time. In 1949, the business was a small meat processor, among many on Commercial Street in Portland. Over the years Chet led the company to become one of the largest independent meat processors and distributors in the country.
The Chet Jordan Leadership Award is presented to leaders. Being a great leader means having the ability to turn a vision into reality and to engage others in making a lasting impact on the community. Eligible applicants are graduating seniors at all Maine high schools who are pursuing post-secondary study in a certificate, two-year or four-year undergraduate program at the following schools:
- University of Maine system
- Maine Community College System
- Maine Maritime Academy
- All vocational/technical post-secondary schools in Maine
Deadline: April 15, 2024
Amount: Varies
Learn More: https://www.mainecf.org/find-a-scholarship/available-scholarships/available-statewide/