With the increasing diversity in our state and society and the need for more creative solutions to our nation's leading challenges, Saint Joseph's College of Maine created the Talbot Scholarship to help provide access to its world class education to traditionally underrepresented students in higher education.

Group of students including Talbot Scholars pose for photo during orientation.
Talbot Scholars group 2
Female students eat cotton candy during Welcome Weekend
Talbot Scholars walking together.
Talbot scholars meet with the Student Engagement and Residential Living staff

Established in 2022, this grant, along with federal aid such as Pell Grants covers tuition and room/board for up to 4 years. Named after the legendary civil rights icon Gerald Talbot, Maine’s first elected black legislator, the scholarship emphasizes not only academic excellence in the classroom, but dedication to leadership and social justice. As Gerald Talbot helped pass numerous laws that helped reduce housing discrimination and advance civil rights for marginalized residents in the state, including black and native populations, Talbot Scholars are expected to embody his commitment to justice and equity, while empowering the college and the State of Maine.

Requirements for Talbot Scholarship Program

Eligibility to apply

To be eligible, a high school student must:

  • Be in the first term of their senior year enrolled in high school in the greater New England Region (VT, CT, RI, NH, MA, ME). Priority will be given to students from Maine.
  • Come from a traditionally underrepresented background (student of color), first low-income (FAFSA must be filed to determine EFC) and first generation.
  • Demonstrate leadership within their school, family, or community.
  • Showcase academic potential and a record of achievement.

Admissions process

To be considered for admission into the program, the applicant must submit:

  • A completed application to Admissions at Saint Joseph’s College of Maine.

→ Priority decision application deadline, January 1
→ Regular decision, February 15.

  • A supplemental application, comprising of short essay questions specific to the requirements of the Talbot Scholarship.

Interviews

Applicants who are under consideration for the Talbot Scholars program will be required to complete an interview with Saint Joe’s Associate Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. A possible second round interview with member(s) of the Academic Center of Excellence and Campus Life may occur.

Once on Campus

To be eligible to retain their scholarship, Talbot Scholars must:

  • Commit to residing on campus full-time.

  • Participate in a mandatory bridge program to improve skills and academic skills training program the summer prior to entry to Saint Joe’s.

  • Attend mandatory regular meetings with mentor(s) both individually and as a group.

  • Be an active and involved member of the campus community, demonstrating leadership both in and outside of the classroom.

  • Attend the Talbot Scholars graduation celebration.

Talbot Scholars 3

How to Apply

Note: Supplemental questions will be emailed to applicants after submitting an Admissions Application.

Know a Student that fits these criteria?

SJC faculty, staff, and students may nominate a student to the Talbot Scholars Program.

→ Nominate a Student

Contact us

Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
jedi@sjcme.edu
207-893-7707