Purpose: To provide financial aide to undergraduate students who major in Marine Biology or other field of study related to the ecology of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.

Education is the Key to the Future

The goal of the Board of Directors is to select students who are expected to make a positive impact on the environment.

In the fall of 1992, the Maryland Saltwater Sportfishermen’s Association decided to expand its efforts to enhance the future of recreational fishing. Funds were and continue to be provided to support highly qualified students who are concerned about the environment and the health of the Chesapeake Bay. In 1992, the newly formed MSSA Scholarship Foundation made its first grant of $1,000.

Since then the foundation has awarded more than $127,000 to over 20 young men and women. Graduates who receive Foundation awards are involved in careers and continued environmental research, mitigation surveys, education, animal surgical procedures and doctoral degrees in biology.

Income for the Foundation comes from individuals, business, MSSA chapters and revenue from special events. Major support has come from A.R. Marani and Sons, the Keith Campell Foundation and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. The Foundation recognizes the need to increase the number of individuals and corporate donors in order to continue its mission.

All contributions to the MSSA Scholarship Foundation, Inc. are tax deductible (501(c)3). Directors receive no compensation. All funds collected are used for grants that are made without regard to age, race, sex, creed, color, religion or national origin.