The Stephen Cross Jr. Scholarship was established to honor the life and legacy of American Captain Stephen Cross Jr., a beloved mariner, mentor, and friend who dedicated his life to sharing the beauty of the ocean and fostering a deep respect for maritime safety and community. Administered by the Sea Corps Maritime Foundation, this scholarship aims to support young adults pursuing careers in the maritime industry, reflecting the values Stephen embodied throughout his life.
Born in Rhode Island and raised in Bluffton, South Carolina, Stephen grew up exploring the coastal waters around Hilton Head. After realizing that the traditional academic path wasn’t for him, he followed his heart to the Virgin Islands, where he built a life on the water. Stephen was a man whose passion for the ocean was matched only by his generosity and desire to uplift others. He lived by the mantra “Slow is Pro,” emphasizing the importance of safety and mindfulness, and he inspired everyone he met to embrace curiosity, confidence, and adventure.
In the spirit of Stephen’s passion for mentorship and his unwavering commitment to excellence, the scholarship seeks to provide financial support to American applicants who demonstrate a love for the sea, a commitment to safety, and a drive to make a positive impact on their community. Ideal candidates are individuals who, like Stephen, see the ocean as more than a workplace—it is a place of connection, discovery, and responsibility.
The scholarship provides financial support, hands-on training, and mentorship opportunities for aspiring maritime professionals, equipping them with the skills needed to obtain credentials such as US Coast Guard licenses, certifications, and other qualifications essential for a successful career in the maritime industry. This program is open to those pursuing careers aboard large charter yachts, commercial vessels, or in marina and shipyard management. Recipients will be selected not just for their aptitude, but for their alignment with Stephen’s values of humility, perseverance, and a dedication to sharing the joy of the ocean with others.
Through this scholarship, the Sea Corps Maritime Foundation seeks to create a lasting tribute to Stephen Cross Jr. by fostering the next generation of maritime leaders who will honor his legacy of kindness, professionalism, and love for the sea.
