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Create a Scholarship
Create your legacy
At Massachusetts Maritime Academy, we firmly believe that education should be accessible to all, regardless of financial background. Scholarships stand as pillars of support, ensuring that talented and deserving students have the opportunity to pursue their academic dreams without the burden of undue financial constraints. These awards not only alleviate the financial burden for students but also serve as catalysts for their success. By providing scholarships, members of the Academy community make it possible for students to focus on their studies, unlock their potential, and contribute meaningfully to their communities and the world at large.
Scholarships are more than just financial aid; they are investments in the future. They represent a commitment to nurturing talent and fostering excellence. Beyond the immediate impact on individual students, scholarships have far-reaching effects, shaping the trajectory of entire families and communities. They open doors to opportunities that may have otherwise remained out of reach, breaking down barriers to education and socioeconomic advancement. As a university dedicated to fostering inclusive excellence, we recognize the transformative power of scholarships in leveling
the playing field and creating a more equitable society.
In a rapidly evolving world where innovation and creativity drive progress, investing in education is paramount. Scholarships at Massachusetts Maritime Academy play a crucial role in cultivating a diverse and dynamic community, where individuals from varied backgrounds come together to learn, collaborate, and thrive. They enable our students to pursue their passions, explore new horizons, and become leaders in their fields. As stewards of knowledge and agents of change, we are committed to championing scholarship opportunities that not only support students but also inspire them to reach their full potential and make a positive impact on the world.
If you have questions or for more information on establishing a scholarship at the Academy, please call the Advancement Office at 508-830-5099 or email at advancement@maritime.edu.
Establishing a NON-ENDOWED named scholarship
A named fund requires a minimum initial contribution of $5,000. Unless additional funds are received subsequent to the creation of the scholarship, awards are distributed until the funds are exhausted. With this commitment, donors may choose to provide specific criteria and preferences to the Academy’s Scholarship Committee regarding which cadets are eligible to receive the funds. These criteria may include (among others) areas of study, class year, or GPA. Please note that as the Academy participates in Div. III sports, scholarships specifically based on participation in a varsity athletic program are not allowed.
The funds must be received in their entirety prior to any scholarship award being made. Donors are welcome to continue their scholarship with annual gifts to their fund.
Establishing an ENDOWED named scholarship
A named endowed scholarship requires a minimum of $50,000 as either a one-time gift or as a pledge to be paid over five years. With this commitment, donors may choose to provide specific criteria and preferences to the Academy’s Scholarship Committee regarding which cadets are eligible to receive the funds. These criteria may include (among others) areas of study, class year, or GPA. Please note that as the Academy participates in Div. III sports, scholarships specifically based on participation in a varsity athletic program are not allowed.
With an endowment, the Foundation invests the initial gift which generates an annual spend rate that is distributed according to the fund agreement. This type of scholarship fund continues into perpetuity and creates an important source of support for our cadets into the future as well as establishing a permanent legacy for the donor.
The corpus of the scholarship fund will not be invaded and all awards will come from the earnings according to the MMA Foundation’s distribution policy. Presently, the rate of spending is 5% of the average market value of the accounts, using a 36-month rolling average.

Highlight: Flanagan Endowed Scholarship
It's been 60 years since the Class of 1964 left Taylor’s Point, however the class has remained close. This past spring, those close bonds were reaffirmed in real time as Bud and wife B.A. hosted many of their shipmates for a three-day celebration back where it all started, Buzzards Bay. This event culminated with the signing of a new gift agreement in which the Flanagan’s pledged to the Academy $5-million dollars to create the ADM William "Bud" Flanagan '64 & BA Flanagan Endowed Scholarship.
Marking this occasion with his shipmates was very important to Bud. A retired four-star Admiral with three decades of naval service before becoming a Wall Street executive, he knows success is rarely a one man show and requires the help and efforts of many who are critical to the overall mission.
The philanthropy of the Flanagan’s and the Class of 1964 in giving back to Massachusetts Maritime Academy is deeply rooted in the values of friendship, leadership, and scholarship instilled in them at the Academy. For Bud and B.A., it’s not the size of their contributions that defines them, but rather a deep love for helping future Buccaneers succeed.
For information on this and other undergraduate rewards click here.