WATERVILLE, MAINE, May 2025 — Dexter Regional High School student McKenzie Clay was recently awarded the Bill and Joan Alfond Family Scholarship to attend Thomas College this fall. This scholarship allows Clay to earn her undergraduate degree tuition free, along with housing and a meal plan thanks to the generosity of the Bill and Joan Alfond Family Foundation.
Clay, of Garland, Maine, will study business administration at Thomas College. She also hopes to participate in the Fire & Ice program which will give her the means and opportunity to earn her real estate license while a student here. Clay will also play field hockey and get involved with as many activities and clubs as possible.
“I chose Thomas College because of its beautiful campus and close-knit community. I’ve loved visiting field hockey events throughout high school, and I’m excited to continue my field hockey career there—it’s always been a dream of mine. I also really appreciate the 3+1 program, which gives me the opportunity to earn my bachelor’s degree in just three years,” said Clay.
“I’ve always worked hard throughout high school to maintain good grades and challenge myself with high-level courses. I know that Thomas College has a strong academic program, and I believe it will be an excellent fit for me,” she added. “Receiving the Alfond Scholarship means the world to me. It’s more than I could have ever hoped for, and I’m truly grateful.”
At Thomas College, students benefit from personalized attention, small class sizes, and a focus on career readiness. With in-demand degrees in business, education, and the arts and sciences, Thomas College equips students with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in today’s workforce. The College’s dedication to affordability and accessibility aligns seamlessly with the Bill and Joan Alfond family’s vision of empowering Maine communities through education.
This initiative underscores the shared commitment between the Bill and Joan Alfond family and Thomas College to make higher education attainable for Maine students, transforming lives and strengthening the state’s future. Preference for this scholarship was given to a Dexter Regional High School student from either Somerset or Piscataquis County.
About Thomas College:
U.S. News and World Report consistently ranks Thomas College as a top college in Maine for social mobility. Our clear career focus and one-of-a-kind Guaranteed Job Program™ makes it possible to advance faster in the arts and sciences, business, and education. Earn an undergraduate degree in three years and then choose from a variety of in-person or online graduate degree programs that can be completed in one-year or two. Located in Waterville, Maine, Thomas College is your pathway to a promising future, guaranteed. For more information visit thomas.edu or contact MacKenzie Riley Young at [email protected] or 207-859-1313. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, and TikTok.