Marine Science Educational Advancement Scholarship
Empowering tomorrow's marine science leaders through educational opportunities.
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Marine Science Educational Advancement Scholarship
2025-2026 APPLICATIONS OPEN NOW!
In February 2020, UWCK announced a transformative $3.5 million grant from the United Arab Emirates to fund cutting-edge and innovative projects in reef restoration and education. It includes the UWCK-UAE Marine Science Educational Advancement Scholarship.
UWCK’s goal is to support Monroe County residents pursuing their degree in a marine science and/or marine technology related field at universities or colleges with Florida Keys reef restoration efforts. In the 2024-2025 academic year alone, UWCK awarded $28,000 in scholarships to 6 recipients, bringing the total number of scholars supported to 16. Since the program’s launch in 2022, nearly $70,000 has been invested in the academic pursuits of Monroe County residents. Read our most recent press release regarding the 2025-2026 application process here.
2024-2025 Recipients
- Kristen Szpak (University of South Florida)
- Sofia Veliz (College of the Florida Keys)
- Robert Saylor (College of the Florida Keys)
- Kara Norman (College of the Florida Keys)
- Channing Gaufillet (University of Florida)
- Iona Holmquist (Tallahassee Community College and Florida State University)
Click HERE to view a video from our recipients.
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Eligibility
Eligibility
- Must be a full-time Monroe County resident for the past 24 months
- Must be able to demonstrate involvement engagement in Florida Keys marine science activities
- Must have at least a 2.5 GPA for upcoming terms/semesters
- Higher education only
Purpose
Purpose
- Scholarships may be used for tuition, books and materials, and/or room and board expenses, and are paid directly to the institution.
- Applicants may apply for scholarships to support marine science and/or marine technology related certificates, associate degrees, bachelor’s, or master’s programs.
- Priority will be given to students already participating in this work and demonstrating financial need.
Max Funding Available
Max Funding Available
- Award amounts: $500-$5,000 (Depending on application ranking, educational track, and other criteria)
Funding Process
Funding Process
- A Scholarship Committee will review the applicants considering educational achievement, career objectives, school activities, references, and financial need.
- Awardees are eligible and encouraged to apply annually beyond their first year of funding as they continue to pursue this educational track.
Support
Support
- For questions or more information, contact UWCK Reef Revitalization Project Liaison, Jessica Dockery, at Jessica.Dockery@UWCollierKeys.org.
Robert Saylor (College of the Florida Keys):
“In the dive industry, I witnessed the bleaching event firsthand, which motivated me to return to school. I’m pursuing a degree in marine resource management, and this scholarship from the United Way is making it possible.”
Kara Norman (College of the Florida Keys):
"This scholarship allows me to focus more on my bachelor’s program in marine resource management. I envision a future working underwater, contributing to coral and habitat restoration both locally and globally.”
Kristen Szpak (University of South Florida):
“My background in biology and education led me to work at a marine science camp, igniting my passion for marine science. Now, I’m pursuing my PhD. Our economy and ecological health depend on coral reefs, and educating future environmental stewards is vital.”