The Thomas L. Baldini Memorial Scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior who will be attending a Michigan state College or university and planning on pursuing a career in either education or political science.

During his lifetime Tom had two passions… teaching and public service. Graduating from Northern Michigan University, Tom taught economics and political science at Marquette Senior High School and Northern Michigan University. In the early 1980’s Tom left teaching to pursue his other passion, public service. Tom served on Governor James Blanchard’s staff, was named the U.S. Chair of International Joint Commission for Canada and the United States by President Bill Clinton, and served as the district director for Congressman Bart Stupak. He stepped away from the political arena when Congressman Stupak retired, and eventually returned to teaching on a part-time basis. His commitment to public service continued, running for a seat on the Marquette City Commission and eventually being selected as mayor of Marquette, a seat he held at the time of his passing. Tom was a leader and mentor and many former student, aspiring politicians, colleagues and friends. His kind heart and giving personality was experienced by almost everyone he knew or came into contact with.