SCMEA GRANTS AND AWARDS
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SCMEA awards are designed to assist individuals in improving and expanding marine education opportunities in South Carolina. Only active SCMEA members are eligible to receive awards. Become a member today. Awards are funded through proceeds from the annual SCMEA conference auction and the support of the South Carolina Sea Grant Consortium. Application information will be found below.
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SCMEA Marine Educator of the Year
This award recognizes the most outstanding marine educator in South Carolina. The recipient of this award will receive a $250.00 check, a five-year membership in SCMEA, and an engraved plaque. Nominate an individual by October 8th. The recipient of this award will be acknowledged at the annual conference and it is the responsibility of the nominator to ensure that the recipient is present during the awards ceremony. Traditionally, the award is a surprise to the individual receiving the honor.
This award recognizes the most outstanding marine educator in South Carolina. The recipient of this award will receive a $250.00 check, a five-year membership in SCMEA, and an engraved plaque. Nominate an individual by October 8th. The recipient of this award will be acknowledged at the annual conference and it is the responsibility of the nominator to ensure that the recipient is present during the awards ceremony. Traditionally, the award is a surprise to the individual receiving the honor.
Renkas Marine Education Grants
Do you have a future classroom project, program, virtual field trip, virtual tool or platforms for distance learning that needs financial assistance? SCMEA is here to help! This award provides funding assistance for individuals implementing educational projects or programs and is named in honor of Cindy Renkas and her children, Brock and Jenna. Cindy was the first SCMEA marine educator of the year, a NMEA educator of the year, and along with her children, has played a very active role in SCMEA. Each year SCMEA gives up to three $200.00 grants. Apply by February 28th, June 1st, or October 1st. Awardees must write an article describing the project for the SCMEA newsletter and submit copies of receipts to the treasurer within one year of receiving a grant.
*Individuals cannot receive this award two years in a row. Current board members are eligible to receive a grant.
*Individuals cannot receive this award two years in a row. Current board members are eligible to receive a grant.
Fred James SCMEA Travel Award
This award provides funding to cover expenses associated with attending the annual SCMEA conference. Each year SCMEA gives up to two $200.00 awards. Apply below by October 1st. The Fred James SCMEA Travel Awards are presented at the state conference and recipients are expected to attend the awards ceremony and the majority of sessions and events presented.
*Current SCMEA board members are not eligible to receive a travel award. Previous recipients cannot reapply.
*Current SCMEA board members are not eligible to receive a travel award. Previous recipients cannot reapply.
Jacques Cousteau Memorial NMEA Travel Award
This award provides funding to cover expenses associated with attending the annual NMEA (National Marine Educators Association) conference. Each year SCMEA gives up to one (1) $500.00 award. To apply for a NMEA travel award, apply by April 7th. Awardees must initially pay for conference expenses and will be reimbursed after their receipts and proof of attendance are submitted to the SCMEA treasurer. Recipients of this award are also expected to write an article for the SCMEA newsletter that describes his/her experience or present a session at the annual SCMEA conference. The recipient is expected to attend the majority of sessions and events at the conference.
*Current board members are eligible to receive this award. Previous awardees must wait three years before reapplying for a travel award. Preference will be given to first time conference attendees.
*Current board members are eligible to receive this award. Previous awardees must wait three years before reapplying for a travel award. Preference will be given to first time conference attendees.
Osprey Professional Development Award
Professional development helps us to maintain the knowledge and skills we need to stay current and relevant in our field. SCMEA recognizes how important it is for educators and scientists to stay up to date with marine and aquatic sciences. The Osprey Award will help provide funding for our members to pursue continuing education through workshops, retreats, and conferences and spread their wings outside of the SCMEA and NMEA annual conferences. Each year, SCMEA will give up to two $150.00 awards to assist with professional growth. Apply by January 31st or June 30th. Awardees must initially pay for the conference expenses and will be reimbursed after receipts and proof of attendance are submitted to the SCMEA treasurer. Recipients of this award are also expected to write an article for the Seascripts newsletter describing his/her experience.
Membership Awards for Students and Business Professionals
This membership award exists in order to support our emerging professionals in the fields of marine and aquatic education by awarding membership to qualifying students and business professionals. Up to 5 students and 2 business professionals will be granted free 1 yr membership. Apply below by January 1st, May 15th, July 31st, and October 30th. Awardees must write an article for the SCMEA newsletter.