The following is the text of a news release from the Passenger Vessel Foundation:
(STODDARD, Wis.) — Awarding scholarship grants to individuals and nonprofits within the maritime industry since 1994, the Passenger Vessel Foundation (PVF) has reached $100,000 in cumulative funding from 2009 through 2016 with its 2016 award distribution.
The PVF scholarship program is intended to promote professionalism, safety and opportunity within the field for those individuals currently employed, or who wish to become employed, in the segment of maritime service represented by U.S. domestic passenger vessels. Grants are awarded with a focus on educational assistance, research, training and the improvement of safety within the maritime industry.
“We’re proud to be able to be a steady source of support for the hard-working individuals and organizations that will make our maritime industry’s future stronger, safer and more secure,” said Robert McMahon, PVF’s president and chairman of the board.
Recipients have voiced their appreciation for PVF’s support. “With my PVF scholarship award, I attended a USCG-approved course in vessel, company and facility security. I am grateful for PVF’s support in improving my understanding of this vital topic as well as in making me a more educated trainer for my captains and crew,” said Stephen Deschenes, operations manager, Boston Harbor Cruises.
Headquartered in Stoddard, Wis., the Passenger Vessel Foundation is a 501(c)3 charitable organization dedicated to supporting the future leaders of the passenger vessel industry. This organization awards scholarship grants for continuing education, training, research and programs that enhance the safety of the industry.
In addition to its scholarship mission, PVF is dedicated to rewarding high-quality merchant mariners for U.S.-flagged passenger vessels through an award program for passenger vessel employees who demonstrate excellence in safety and security; marine crew training videos and manuals produced in cooperation with the Passenger Vessel Association; and programs of public awareness that address the issues of concern to the industry, including but not limited to environmental, business and maritime issues.
For more information, visit www.pvfoundation.com.
