During Midcoast Senior College’s Annual Meeting and Luncheon on June 13, held at Thorne Hall, Bowdoin College, Mark Smith of Brunswick, Maine, was presented the prestigious 2017 Founders Award for his staunch support of MSC in numerous roles.

To acknowledge the contributions of thetwo co-founders of Midcoast Senior College, Nancy Wheeler and the late Jack Thompson, the Board of Dirctors established in 2009 the Wheeler/Thompson Founders Award. Presented annually at the Spring Luncheon, this award recognizes an individual who has supported the spirit and work of Midcoast Senior College in significant ways.

“Mark is a longstanding member and contributor to MSC. Serving as president of the board from 2009-2013, Mark managed the rapid evolution and growth of the College,” said Dr. Anthony Belmont, outgoing president of Midcoast Senior College. “During that time, he played a key role in the relocation from Bath to SNHU in Brunswick, helped create the Founders’ Award, and oversaw the transition to independent 501(c)3 status.”

The plaque and framed certificate was presented to Mark Smith by Dr. Belmont before more than 200 members, sponsors and invited guests. Nominations are solicited each spring from among past and present members, students, faculty, volunteers, and others. The Board makes the final selection.

Midcoast Senior College’s mission is to provide non-credit academic courses and other educational events for people of 50 years and older to continue their lifelong learning. The 2016 – 2017 program involved 38 faculty providing 46 courses to Midcoast Maine residents. MSC also maintains an active website (midcoastseniorcollege.org) for public use; writes, designs and mails newsletters to members; and offers off-campus activities including Winter and Summer Wisdom, Current Events, and Summer Excursion programs.