August 24, 2019 – The Eastern Surfing Association is pleased to announce the 2019 recipients of its annual Marsh Scholarship Award.
For over 35 years the Marsh Scholarship Award provides financial aid to deserving student surfers who are pursuing college and/or graduate school degrees. Applicants are judged by a panel of six trustees on the basis of academic accomplishments, recommendations, and related credentials with winners announced in time for the upcoming school year.
The program was named in honor of the Marsh Family of North Carolina who were ESA pioneers, aad specifically for Mike Marsh who set an example for all students by earning his law degree while fighting cancer.
“This may be the toughest competition that the ESA offers,” said Kit Henningsen, ESA’s special program director who oversees the Marsh Scholarship Fund. “Academic excellence is an ongoing challenge that demands rigorous discipline and consistent hard work.”
The 2019 Marsh Scholarship Award winners have certainly excelled across all requirements:
Georgia Cook – ESA Georgia District – One of seven students at Samford University (Alabama) selected for a Fast Track combination Bachelor of Science / Doctorate program in Physical Therapy.
Cory Jackson – ESA SSC District – Flagler College – majoring in Coastal Environmental Science with an emphasis on the study of coral reef ecosystems formation/restoration/biodiversity.
Jade Beasley – ESA FCFL District – Jacksonville University – School of Nursing – Seeking dual credentials as U.S. Coast Guard Helicopter Rescue Swimmer and Registered Nurse.
“The ESA has given me friends, an understanding of how to be competitive, and a deep love for surfing,” said 2019 recipient Georgia Cook, being carried up the beach for her first-place win at the ESA’s Southeast Regional.
“I would just like to thank the ESA and the scholarship committee for their support in furthering my education,” top recipient Georgia Cook said. “This scholarship shows just how much the ESA cares about its competitors as a whole person, not just the athlete part. My family and I are incredibly grateful for this support to help me achieve my goal of becoming a physical therapist.”
ESA congratulates this year’s winners and wishes them every future success!