Mitchell Institute Welcomes 2026 Promise Scholars at Regional Launch Events
Twenty newly selected Scholars gathered across Maine this month to build community, recognize their strengths, and begin their journey as members of the 2026 Promise Community.
Newly selected Mitchell Scholars gathered across Maine this month to build relationships, recognize the strengths they will carry into college, and begin their experience as members of the Mitchell Institute’s 2026 Promise Community.
The Institute hosted three regional Promise Launch events: July 15 at the University of Maine, July 17 at Kennebec Valley Community College, and July 21 at the University of Southern Maine. Current Mitchell Scholars served as mentors at each gathering, sharing candid accounts of their own college experiences and helping the new Scholars begin forming connections before the fall semester starts.
Each year, 20 students from the larger class of 200 Mitchell Scholars are selected to receive additional support and opportunities through the Promise Community. Scholars express interest in joining the program as part of the Mitchell Scholarship application process, reflecting on how the community could contribute to their success in college and beyond.
“We saw great promise in them based on the fact that they had overcome adversity and demonstrated resilience. So, we made a promise to them to see them through for the next four to six years, or however long it takes.”
— Elyse Pratt-Ronco, Scholar Support and Research Manager
Each gathering opened with an invitation for Scholars to choose a postcard that represented something they wanted others to know about them, which they used to introduce themselves, their future colleges, and their intended areas of study. Scholars also completed CliftonStrengths activities, exploring how the qualities they already possess — even ones others may have called “too much” — can serve them as they move into college and beyond.
“You’re walking in this room with strengths. That’s where we’re starting.”
Current Mitchell Scholars played a central role through a mentor panel on the transition to college, speaking openly about uncertainty, setbacks, and finding their footing — rather than presenting a polished version of college life.
Scholars also completed “I am from” poems and identified the values they want to use as anchors during their first year — touchstones to return to when college feels busy, unfamiliar, or overwhelming.
Promise Launch marked the first of several opportunities for the cohort to reconnect throughout the coming year. As they begin college, Promise Scholars will continue receiving individualized support, participating in check-ins, and building relationships with mentors and other members of the community.
“Belonging is just the beginning.”
— 2026 Promise Community