Russ Smith Youth Scholarship
Ralph “Russ” Smith, a longtime member of the Gloucester Schooner Festival Steering Committee, helped develop the GSF scholarship fund by securing a generous seed grant from the Gerondelis Foundation, in honor of Barbara “Sis” Smith. Since 2012, the Gloucester Schooner Festival Committee has continued committing a portion of their funds raised to this important scholarship, providing Cape Ann youth with the opportunity to further explore and develop maritime skills. When Russ passed away in 2021, the Gloucester Schooner Festival Committee renamed the award in his honor. The fund now relies heavily on donations from the community to keep Russ’s legacy alive. Several young men, women, and local organizations have received the scholarship funding over the past ten years. Recipients are chosen from a pool of Cape Ann youth based on the goals of advancing their maritime career.
Applications are based solely on letters that explain the applicant’s need and express the applicant’s motivation for a future career in maritime industries. While strong preference will be given to those continuing a career at Maritime Academies or Maritime institutions of higher learning, all youth looking for a maritime career of any kind are encouraged to apply.
Applications will be accepted until March 15, 2025. Inquiries may be sent to info@maritimegloucester.org. The scholarship will be awarded April 11 at the annual Gloucester Schooner Festival Kickoff Event and Fundraiser at the Gloucester House & Blue Collar Lobster.
Pictured: 2 time Scholarship recipient Daniel O'Leary with Daisy Nell and Michael De Koster
Pictured: 3 time Scholarship recipient Corryn Ulrich with Daisy Nell
Pictured: 2016 scholarship recipient Andrew Wayrynen with Daisy Nell and Russ Smith
2025 Dates: Aug 27th - 31st
Contact Us At: Schooner@MaritimeGloucester.org
The 40th Annual Gloucester Schooner Festival was made possible due to our generous sponsors:
