TWI Environmental Studies Scholarship

The TWI Environmental Studies Scholarship was created in 2017 to honor the founders of and key contributors to Tisbury Waterways, Inc. The Scholarship was first awarded in 2018. It recognizes the academic achievements of Vineyard residents pursuing a career in marine, coastal, or environmental sciences or related disciplines. The one-year $3000 scholarship will be awarded to one or two full-time students at an accredited college who are entering their sophomore, junior, or senior year, or who are graduate students. (The funds may be awarded on a split basis to more than one chosen applicant at the option of the TWI Board.) Previous applicants/recipients are welcome to reapply.

The scholarship application, which can be downloaded using the link below, must be completed, signed and mailed to TWI no later than April 30, 2026. Applicants must also supply the following:

A letter of recommendation from an individual who can speak to their intent, aptitude, and observed motivation to pursue an environment-related career,
A copy of an official transcript from their college or university which includes an up to date listing of all courses taken to date and grades received, and
A completed copy of their current year Free Application for Federal Student Aid, with the Expected Family Contribution noted.

To Download the Scholarship Application Click Here

Please note that the Student Aid Index Summary for FAFSA is requested instead of the EFC (which is eliminated this year)

2026 Scholarship Recipients

TWI has chosen two students to share the $3000 2026 TWI Environmental Studies scholarship fund. Both are previous recipients who were present and helpful at our 2025 Seafood Cocktail party. Maria Sanchez Roa is a junior at UMass Amherst studying Environmental Science and Natural Resource Conservation. She was a Water Resource Intern in 2025 for the MV Commission who was recommended for her work in the lab of a UMass research ecologist. Sheri Caseau, Water Resource Planner for the MV Commission, also noted Maria's conscientiousness and organizational skills. Additionally, Charles Porterfield also will receive scholarship funds. He has previously worked as a Harbor Assistant for the Towns of Tisbury and Edgartown and at Cottage City Oysters. He is currently a sophomore at UMass Amherst studying Finance with a minor in Environmental Science.