University of Maine senior Amber Shane of Vinalhaven is the 2021-22 recipient of this year’s Benjamin J. Dorsky Memorial Scholarship. Amber is the daughter of Patrick Shane, who is a member of IBEW 2327 and Maine AFL-CIO’s executive board. Amber has won the scholarship in previous years and it has helped her pursue a major in psychology with a double minor in sociology and management.
"I am honored to receive this scholarship, and am grateful for the opportunities that it will provide me," wrote Amber in a letter to the Maine AFL-CIO. "Thank you again for your generosity and support."
When she graduates in May, Amber plans to work back on the island for a little while and do some traveling before she decides on her career path.
“I know I want to continue with psychology but I think I just want to learn more about what area I want to pursue,” she said.
Amber said she loved having the opportunity to attend our 2019 Biennial Convention and learned a lot about what her father does and the labor movement in Maine.
Benjamin Dorsky was a longtime of President of the Maine AFL-CIO, serving from 1937 to 1979. The scholarship in his name is awarded to students with financial need who are Maine residents and preference is given to students whose parents are members of the Maine AFL-CIO. The Jay Foundation Scholarship is also available to members of the Maine AFL-CIO in good standing.
To learn more about the Benjamin Dorsky Memorial Scholarship and other scholarships for union families visit UMaine’s Student Aid website.