This past spring, Massachusetts Maritime Academy (MMA), a top-ranked public university with undergraduate degree programs focusing on science, engineering, technology, math, and business that blend academics and experiential learning, in partnership with the Buzzards Bay Coalition and its Outdoor Learning program, delivered a hands-on cultural and maritime experience to 650 New Bedford elementary and high schools students. Through this dynamic collaboration, students explored Cape Verdean heritage, traditional sailing techniques, and the rich maritime history of Buzzards Bay.

Now in its second year, the partnership offers New Bedford public schools students in grades 3 to 12 a dynamic opportunity to embark on educational day trips aboard the historic SSV Ernestina-Morrissey, immersing them in learning that weaves together science, navigation, history, and Cape Verdean culture. This year’s program included 15 day trips, engaging a total of 650 students.

Each stationary outing aboard the Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey featured interactive learning stations, led by Buzzards Bay Coalition Outdoor Learning Manager Carly Baumann, coalition instructor Logan Mendes, local educators Lynn Connor and Jeannine Louro, and the schooner’s Captain Tiffany Krihan and her crew from Massachusetts Maritime Academy. Students discovered the Ernestina-Morrissey’s history, participated in hands-on water quality testing, and gained insight into maritime navigation and the responsibilities of a ship’s watch.

“We had a front row seat to witness how excited the New Bedford public schoolchildren were to experience science, history, sailing, and outdoor exploration on the Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey,” said Mark Rasmussen, president of the Buzzards Bay Coalition. “We were thrilled to be part of this initiative with MMA, particularly because of the strong and unique ties between New Bedford, Cabo Verde, and the schooner.”

“Our partnership with the Buzzards Bay Coalition exemplifies our commitment to experiential learning and community outreach,” said Rear Admiral Francis X. McDonald, USMS, president of the Massachusetts Maritime Academy. “By welcoming students aboard the SSV Ernestina-Morrissey, we’re not only sharing the Academy’s maritime heritage, we’re also inspiring the next generation to explore science, culture, and stewardship through hands-on discovery.”

The SSV Ernestina-Morrissey is part of the Massachusetts Maritime Academy’s permanent fleet, serving as an educational platform for sail and leadership training for cadets, K-12 STEM programs, and community engagement.

About the Buzzards Bay Coalition: The Coalition is a membership-supported nonprofit organization dedicated to the restoration, protection, sustainable use, and enjoyment of Buzzards Bay and its watershed. The Coalition works to improve the health of Buzzards Bay and its many harbors and coves.

About Massachusetts Maritime Academy (MMA): MMA is a fully accredited, four-year, co-educational state university offering Bachelor and Master of Science degrees that are highly regarded in the worldwide maritime industry and beyond. For more than 100 years, MMA has prepared women and men for exciting and rewarding careers on land and sea. As the nation’s finest co-ed maritime college, MMA challenges students to succeed by balancing a unique regimented lifestyle with a typical four-year college environment. Located on Cape Cod, at the mouth of the scenic Cape Cod Canal, Massachusetts Maritime Academy is the ideal college to pursue the love for the ocean, concern for the environment, interest in math and science, and a thirst for adventure. Follow MMA on FB: @massmaritime, @MassMaritime.Advancement; IG: @massmaritime, @mmacademyalumni; Twitter: @MMAadmissions, @MMAcademyAlumni; YouTube: Massachusetts Maritime Academy.

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