Wayne Werner Memorial Scholarship Fund
About Wayne
Wayne Werner was a skilled commercial red snapper fisherman from Alachua, Florida. He was a visionary who believed deeply in the importance of building bridges between fishermen and scientists. His commitment to bridging the gap between practical knowledge and scientific understanding was instrumental in advancing sustainable fishing practices and preserving our marine ecosystems for future generations. He regularly worked with scientists at universities and the National Marine Fisheries Service. He was always ready to share his experience with federal regulators in Congress and regional managers at the Gulf Fishery Management Council.
Wayne was also an amazing storyteller who was committed to elevating the narrative around commercial fishing and the fishing industry. Whether it was walking on Capitol Hill, or a fishing adventure, Wayne's stories spoke to how seriously he took his profession and to the industry as a whole.
Wayne passed away on March 22, 2023, leaving behind a hole in the hearts of the fishermen, scientists, and fishery regulators that knew him.
Scholarship Program Details
About the Scholarship
The Wayne Werner Memorial Scholarship supports the next generation of marine scientists, fisheries managers, environmental storytellers, and conservation leaders who share Wayne's belief that sustainable fisheries depend on collaboration between fishermen and science.
Who is Eligible?
Applicants must:
- Be actively enrolled as a junior or senior undergraduate student with a minimum 2.5 GPA, or enrolled in a master's degree program with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
- Be studying marine science, fisheries management, oceanography, natural resources, journalism, communications, or a related field.
- Be enrolled at an academic institution located in one of the five Gulf states: Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, or Florida.
Award Details
We anticipate making one award of up to $5,000.00 in 2026.
Scholarship awardees must commit to:
- One in-person or online meeting with a commercial fisherman (to be facilitated by the Shareholders' Alliance).
- Write a short profile to be featured in a Shareholders' Alliance newsletter.
- Write a short "impact statement" of the scholarship at the end of the academic year to be submitted to the Scholarship Committee.
Think you are a good fit for the scholarship?
Click the button to apply.
Application and Scholarship Information
Application Form
Application Form
Application Form
Click the button below to access the Scholarship Application.
Mentor Form
Application Form
Application Form
All applicants must have one mentor submit a letter of recommendation through the Form at the link below.
Make a Contribution
Make a Contribution
Make a Contribution
Donations are vital to maintain this Scholarship Fund in future years. We appreciate all contributions.
Have a Question?
Make a Contribution
Make a Contribution
Do you have a question about the Scholarship? Click the button below to contact the Shareholders' Alliance
About the Scholarship Fund
Scholarship Committee
The Scholarship is managed by a Committee of individuals who are committed to passing Wayne's legacy to the next generation of leaders. They serve on a volunteer basis and are integral in the Scholarship selection process.
Current Members:
Werner Family Member - Mr. Nick Werner, son
Mr. Bob Gill, former owner of Shrimp Landing and former Gulf Council member
Captain David Walker, commercial fisherman, owner of Walker Fishing Fleet
Captain Buddy Guindon, owner of Katie's Seafood and Executive Director of the Shareholders' Alliance.
Dr. Tom Frazer, Chair of the Marine Science Department at the University of South Florida and former Gulf Council member.
Scholarship Funds
The Wayne Werner Memorial Scholarship Fund is supported through individual donations and a generous contribution of red snapper IFQ shares from the Werner family, whose continued support has helped make the program possible.
Make a Contribution
If you would like to donate to the scholarship fund in Wayne's honor, please click the link below.
Memories of Wayne
Wayne Featured in "Rancher, Farmer, Fisherman"
Miriam Horn's book tells the untold story of people at the frontlines of conservation. Rancher, Farmer, Fisherman challenges pervasive and powerful myths about American and environmental values.
Gulf of America Reef Fish Shareholders' Alliance
1902 Wharf Road Galveston, TX 77550 US
Donate to the Wayne Werner Memorial Scholarship Fund
Building bridges between commercial fishermen and marine science students.
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