Purpose: To provide financial aide to undergraduate students in fields of study such as Marine Biology, Environmental Engineering and Management, and Fisheries Management, or other curricula related to the ecology of the Chesapeake Bay, its tributaries, and the coastal waters of the mid-Atlantic seaboard.

Education is the Key to the Future

The goal of the Foundation's Board of Directors is to select students who are expected to make positive impacts on the marine enviornment.

In the fall of 1992, the Maryland Saltwater Sportsfishermen's Association (MSSA) decided to expand its efforts to enhance the future of recreational fishing.  Funds were, and continue to be raised annually, to provide financial assistance to highly qualified students who have demonstrated sincere concern for the marine environment and health of the Chesapeake Bay and coastal eco-systems.  In 1992, the newly formed MSSA Scholarship Foundation made its first grant of $1000.

Since then the Foundation has awarded more than $180,000 to over 40 young men and women.  Graduates who have been recipients of these scholarships have followed careers in environmental research and education, mitigation surveys, fisheries management, animal surgical procedures, and doctoral degrees in biology.

Income for the Foundation comes from individuals, businesses, MSSA Chapters, and revenue from special events and activities.  Major support has come from A. R. Marani and Sons, The Keith Campbell Foundation, and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.  The Foundation is engaged in a vigorous fund raising campaign to increase the number of individual and corporate donors to ensure the sustainability of the scholarship program.  Donations may be made by check, payable to the MSSA SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION and mailed to 8461 C Fort Smallwood Road, Pasadena, MD 21122.  All contributions to the Foundation are tax deductible under the provisions of the IRS Code, Section 501(c) (3).  Directors receive no compensation.  Donated funds are used for scholarships and the establishment of an endowment to perpetuate the issuance of such grants to students.  Scholarships are awarded without regard to age, race, sex, creed, color, religion, or national origin.

For questions regarding the Scholarship Foundation, its programs or procedures, or to discuss a special gifting program (individual, corporate, or trust), contact Peter Abbott, President, at 443-871-5342, or by email at abbottgru@aol.com.