Marsh Scholarship

The Marsh Scholarship Program was founded in 1981 by former ESA Executive Director Dr. Colin J. Couture to recognize and honor the accomplishments of the Marsh Family of North Carolina and young Mike Marsh in particular. Led by his legendary East Coast family and surfing’s highly respected matriarch, Bette Marsh, Mike set a pioneering example for students everywhere by earning his law degree while simultaneously and successfully waging his own personal battle with cancer. The purpose of the program is to offer financial aid to deserving ESA student surfers wishing to continue their education beyond secondary school level (college, trade, vocational schools). The grants are awarded to ESA members on the basis of academics and good citizenship, rather than athletic ability.

To apply for a Marsh Scholarship, download the Marsh application or email us. Deadline for submission is July 1st of each year. The applications are judged by an elected group of trustees for awards to be announced by September 1 each year. Donations and gifts to the Marsh Scholarship Fund are welcome.

APPLICANTS MUST SATISFY THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA:

You must be a CURRENT Eastern Surfing Association member in good standing.
When filling out the application in ink or submit typewritten (preferred).
No application will be considered without an official school transcript. You should request your school(s) to send an official transcript(s) to the address below.
Submit a letter of recommendation along with your application. The letter should be from someone who is not a member of your family.
Submit a short, (no more than 500 words) typewritten letter addressed to the Marsh Scholarship Committee detailing your future goals and how your choice of educational institutions will help you reach these goals.
Application and all other pertinent information must be returned to the Marsh Scholarship Committee by July 1.

The Marsh Application, along with the additional information you attach, will be used to determine your eligibility for an ESA Marsh Scholarship Grant. To this end, you are advised to follow the directions above very carefully and submit all items required completely.

For questions, please email ESA's Marsh program director Kit Henningsen at kithenningsen74@gmail.com