Hancock County Scholarship Announces 2025 Recipients

The Silvernail Foundation celebrates its newest cohort of scholars as they embark on post-secondary education.

BLUE HILL, Maine, June 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In its third year, The Silvernail Foundation has announced its newest cohort of outstanding scholars across Hancock County.

Founded in 2022 with an initial $2 million commitment from Andy and Shelby Silvernail – proud graduates of Bucksport High School – the Foundation awards up to 10 students each year with scholarships of up to $20,000. The funds are dedicated to supporting the students' post-secondary education and leadership development.

In addition to the financial support, each scholar attends an annual summit focused on values-based leadership, with an emphasis on building communities rooted in trust, respect, and prosperity.

2025 Silvernail Scholars

"We are incredibly proud of our newest cohort of Silvernail Scholars, who will join the 2023 and 2024 classes," said Andy Silvernail, co-founder of the Silvernail Foundation and chairman and CEO of International Paper. "These are hardworking, intelligent, kind, and multi-faceted young people. I'm honored to be part of their journeys."

This year's recipients include:

• Lily Therrien – Bucksport High School
• Paige Bowden – Bucksport High School
• Wyatt Weaver – Bucksport High School
• Anthony Adams – Deer Isle-Stonington High School
• Madlyn Hagney – Ellsworth High School
• Livezey Sheehan – Ellsworth High School
• Ella Montgomery – Ellsworth High School
• Lucinda Clews – George Stevens Academy
• Sorrel Steele – George Stevens Academy
• Daria Artemchuk – Mount Desert Island High School
• Callie Chase – Sumner Memorial High School

Looking ahead: Local roots, national reach

The 2025 Silvernail Scholars are pursuing higher education at institutions across the country – including Chicago, New York City, and throughout Maine – expanding the foundation's reach and impact.

Still, the heart of the foundation remains deeply local.

"Maine is our foundation," said Shelby Silvernail, co-founder of the Silvernail Foundation and founding director of Paws for Patrick. "Our family has lived all over but giving back to our roots and helping young people the way others helped us is the gift of a lifetime."

Summer symposium unites scholars

Next month, all three scholar cohorts (2023, 2024, and 2025) will gather for the annual symposium. A full day of connection, personal development, and fun. Scholars will also meet members of the Silvernail Foundation advisory council.

"We look forward to this every year," shared Andy and Shelby. "It's more than scholarships – we're building community."

About The Silvernail Foundation

People. Passion. Perseverance. The Silvernail Foundation is dedicated to helping young people reach their potential through equitable access to education, leadership, and health.

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SOURCE Silvernail Foundation