The Challenger Learning Center of Maine is honored to have received scholarship funding to send 17 teacher nominated students to our 2025 Astronaut Academy Summer Day Camp entirely free of charge thanks to generous funding through the Totman Strong Family Foundation in memory of Astronaut Academy Camper Bryan Totman.

Bryan attended Astronaut Academy over the summer in 2021 where his bright, inquisitive personality brightened each and every day of camp. Bryan was a passionate camper who even took what he learned home each day to continue the lesson and activities for his family. He came to camp every day in his red Challenger T-shirt and a head full of questions and jokes to crack. Bryan was a lover of books, football, animals, and playing pranks. He will always be remembered by those who knew him as a child with a generous heart and a curious mind.

This scholarship is intended for any student who will be entering grades 5-8 in fall, 2025 to receive. Preference is given to students who otherwise may not be able to afford a similar experience. To be eligible for this scholarship the Totman Strong Foundation has requested students be nominated by their teachers, specifically those students who, like Bryan, are passionately curious. Through this opportunity may Bryan’s energy continue and help inspire future astronauts.

Nominations from teachers can be filled out here.

FIRST ROUND OF CANDITATE CONSIDERATIONS WILL OCCUR FEBRUARY 28th

Before or at that time, please verify with the nominee’s family that they are:

1. Interested in and able to attend all 4 days of camp in either the week of June 23rd-26th OR July 21st-24th, 2025
   
   
2. Able to provide or coordinate transportation to and from The Challenger Learning Center of Maine (30 Venture Way, Bangor) between the hours of 8:30-9am and 3-4pm each day of camp. Please reach out if transportation is the only barrier- we would like to assist in finding possible resources, [email protected].
   
   
3. Willing to pick and purchase a favorite book to be added to the growing Bryan Totman section of the library at Ames Elementary School in Searsmont, ME with a written note included in the binding regarding what this camp experience meant to them

Please direct any questions regarding this nomination or scholarship to Sarah Raymond-Boyan at [email protected]