Tampa Bay Maritime Scholarship Foundation Inc.

Overview

The Tampa Bay Maritime Scholarship Foundation Inc. is a public charity registered as a 501.c.3 Corporation in Florida, established on January 30, 2015[2][3]. Its primary mission is to provide meaningful scholarship support to high-achieving graduates of the Hillsborough County Maritime Technology Programs, helping them pursue post-secondary education in maritime careers[2][3].

Purpose and Programs

The foundation offers three types of scholarships:

• Collegiate Scholarships: Designed for students applying to traditional two or four-year maritime programs.
• Technical Scholarships: Aimed at students seeking adult maritime technical skills training, supporting careers such as welding, pipefitting, and marine joinery[1][2].
• Collegiate Renewal Scholarships: Available to Collegiate Scholarship recipients continuing their maritime college enrollment[2].

Governance

The Tampa Bay Maritime Scholarship Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors, comprising members from the Port of Tampa Bay, Tampa Port Ministries, Propeller Club-Port of Tampa, and the Port of Tampa Maritime Industries Association[2].

Financials

In 2023, the foundation reported revenues of $181,000 and expenses of $73,900, with total assets valued at $500,000 and no liabilities[4]. The organization provided grants totaling $63,011 in the same year[5].

Background

The establishment of this foundation was partly facilitated by a donation from the New York Yankee Foundation in honor of George Steinbrenner. The first scholarships under the name of the George Steinbrenner Memorial Maritime Scholarship were awarded in 2015[2]. The foundation supports maritime education and career development through partnerships with local maritime programs and industries.

Impact

The foundation's scholarships have enabled students to successfully transition to maritime careers. Notably, its first graduate, Stephanie Smith, completed her education at the California Maritime Academy and entered the maritime field with a college degree and a 3rd Officer's license[2]. Despite budget-related challenges in local maritime education programs, the foundation continues to provide vital support for students pursuing maritime careers.