By Ruth Ann Ruiz
The Post Newspaper Features Editor
The Galveston Wharves is investing in the future of the maritime industry by establishing an endowment for scholarships at Texas A&M University at Galveston. Created with funding from Port of Galveston bicentennial sponsors, the endowment of more than $300,000 will support students pursuing degrees in maritime and marine-related fields.
Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director and CEO, said, “As one of the Gulf Coast’s leading deepwater ports, the Port of Galveston depends on a strong pipeline of skilled professionals to sustain and grow our maritime economy. This endowment reflects our commitment to helping the next generation of mariners, administrators, engineers, and logistics experts gain the education and training they need to lead this critical industry.”
Scholarships totaling $3,000 each will be awarded annually to four undergraduates pursuing degrees in Maritime Business Administration, Marine Transportation or Marine Engineering Technology beginning in fall 2026. Preference will be given to students from Galveston County.
Texas A&M University at Galveston, a maritime-focused campus of the Texas A&M University System, educates future leaders in fields including marine transportation, maritime business, ocean engineering, and environmental science. The new endowment will provide financial support for students who demonstrate academic achievement and a commitment to maritime careers.
“Partnerships like this are vital to the success of our students and the maritime industry as a whole,” said Col. Michael E. Fossum ’80 (Ret.) USAFR, vice president of Texas A&M University, chief operating officer of Texas A&M University at Galveston. “We are grateful to the Galveston Wharves for investing in our students and strengthening the connection between education and industry.”
Vic Pierson, chairman of the Galveston Wharves Board of Trustees, added, “We’re extremely grateful to the dozens of port partners who contributed to the port’s bicentennial fund to sponsor our 200th anniversary celebration, with proceeds going to establish this lasting endowment. It’s a legacy that they can be truly proud of.”
Rees said, “The Port of Galveston has been part of this community for 200 years. Supporting maritime education ensures that our industry continues to thrive for the next 200.”
