2025 Sam L. Cohen Pioneer Scholars

The Pioneer Scholar Program, a partnership between supporters and the Mitchell Institute, provides the opportunity to recognize specific Mitchell Scholars and Alumni who, through their contributions to school and community and their demonstration of certain qualities – as students and as citizens – stand out for acknowledgement.

Congratulations to:

Saytune Abdullahi - Portland High School * University of Southern Maine

Elliott Aranovitch  - Biddeford High School * Bates College

Yaqeen Hasan- Thornton Academy * Wayne State University

Sam L. Cohen Foundation Executive Director Announces Retirement

After a 13-year tenure as Executive Director of the Sam L. Cohen Foundation, John Shoos announced that 2026 will be his last year at the Foundation.

In expressing his appreciation to the directors, John said, “I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to work with the board, staff and community partners. It has been a privilege to build upon Sam Cohen’s values of quiet generosity and support for his community. I am proud of the Foundation’s role in supporting the outstanding work of our nonprofit partners to respond to community needs and improve the quality of life for everyone in southern Maine.”

“For the past 13 years, John has guided the Foundation with a steady hand and a passion for always doing what’s right for the communities we serve,” said Jeff Nathanson, president of the Foundation. “His deep commitment to collaboration – both with funders and nonprofit partners - has been a hallmark of his work in the Greater Portland community. On behalf of the board, we thank John for his vision, leadership and dedication and wish him all the best in his next chapter.”