The Mt. Blue Area Garden Club recently held its August local garden tour. From left are Janet O’Neil (member), Chrisy Holbert (member), Faith Maurais, and Laura Shepherd (member) and, with back turned, Tammy Zeh (member). Submitted photo

FARMINGTON — Members of the Mt. Blue Area Garden Club welcomed Faith Maurais to its August local garden tour. A 2024 graduate from Spruce Mountain High School, she was awarded the club’s annual merit scholarship in recognition of her commitment to environmental conservation and community service.

Faith Maurais’ senior portrait. Submitted photo

Maurais grew up in Jay, where she developed a deep connection with the natural world and her community. This fall, she is attending the University of New Hampshire to pursue dual degrees in wildlife and conservation biology and marine biology, a decision fueled by her desire to protect wildlife and advocate for sustainable ecosystem management, according to a news release from the club.

She was designated the valedictorian of her class and named the Maine Principal’s Award winner. She also served as Senior Student Council president, National Honor Society vice president at Spruce Mountain High, and chair of the NHS Community Service Committee.

Maurais led initiatives such as creating a free student thrift store and organizing food drives. She has also been a vocal advocate for mental health and drug use prevention through various youth programs. She has been involved with the Healthy Community Coalition of Greater Franklin County, where she has contributed to numerous community service projects.

To learn more about the scholarship, visit mtbluegardenclub.org.

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