The Anchor Scholarship Foundation, a nonprofit scholarship organization established to support the higher education of dependents of U.S. Surface Navy warriors, today announced the award and distribution of scholarships to 32 recipients totaling $106,350.

“The Anchor Scholarship Foundation is excited to be able to help these Surface Navy family members in their pursuit of higher education, but more importantly, we are thrilled to acknowledge each student’s achievements despite the challenges of a military life coupled, this year, with COVID-19,” said Joy Eyrolles, executive director, Anchor Scholarship Foundation.

Emma Wappelhorst, of Smithfield, was selected as an Anchor Scholarship recipient. This $2,250 scholarship was sponsored by USS Arleigh Burke Association. Emma will attend Rider University as a freshman majoring in secondary science education.

The Anchor Scholarship Foundation is celebrating its 41st year of supporting U.S. Surface Navy families and has grown from awarding $2,000 in scholarships in 1981 to scholarships totaling over $106,350 in 2021.

The Foundation gives Anchor Scholarships for secondary education and industry certification to dependent family members of active duty, retired or honorably discharged Surface Navy members who have served a minimum of six years six years (active duty) in commands under the administrative control of Commander Naval Surface Forces, US Atlantic Fleet (COMNAVSURFLANT) and/or Commander Naval Surface Forces, US Pacific Fleet (COMNAVSURFOR). Surface Navy members must have a Surface Warfare qualification (SWO/ESWS).

For dependents of sailors who have served a minimum of one year on board, Anchor Scholarship Foundation also awards Ship’s Company Scholarships for each of the following — USS Arleigh Burke, USS Bulkeley, USS Chung Hoon/USS Gettysburg, USS Cincinnati and USS Thomas Hudner.

Scholarships are open to both children and spouses of qualifying officers or enlisted personnel.

Additional information regarding the Anchor Scholarship program, eligibility and deadlines is available through the Foundation’s website, www.anchorscholarship.com.