The Sea Base Alumni and Friends Association (SBAFA) established the Nancy Wells Staff Scholarship for the purpose of celebrating and rewarding the skills, gifts, and talents of seasonal Sea Base staff by financially contributing to their educational endeavors. For 30 years, Nancy Wells was the gateway to young men and women pursuing adventures at the Sea Base. If you've worked at Sea Base or visited the Islamorada Base, chances are you've interacted with Nancy! She is a huge part of the behind-the-scenes magic that makes all Sea Base adventures possible. Nancy was integral to the founding of the Sea Base Alumni and Friends Association. She has served as our Sea Base liaison, our membership manager, and the keeper of our treasury. Nancy would do anything for Scouts, adult leaders, Sea Base staff or SBAFA and we are so very grateful to her for her servant leadership! We are honored to preserve her legacy through the naming of this award. Nancy, thank you for all you do!

Eric Aubuchon

Commissary Commissioner - Dr. Marshall Hollis Scholarship

“Thank you so much for giving myself and other applicants the opportunity to further our educations. I know for me that this would make a massive difference in my abilities to become a Captain for Sea Base and for any Captain jobs in my future. I can honestly say I do not know where I would be if it weren't for Sea Base. When I first came here as a scout, with step-dad and step-brother, along with my troop from Overland Park, Kansas, I never thought I would have had the opportunity to stay and live here. Back then it as a dream, that I was lucky enough to turn into reality. Even in my first season as staff I never thought I would turn that summer job into a year round job helping give scouts from all over the country an amazing ocean adventure experience.”

Ellison Ballew

STEM / Marine Eco Commissioner - Greg Adams Scholarship

"The past year and a half has had a profound impact on both my life and career, shaping me in the best ways and reinforcing my passion for marine science and education. Although I will miss Sea Base during my time at schhol, I am excited to continue my education and look forward to returning to Sea Base to share my newfound knowledge.”

Elizabeth Brown

Galley Mate - Capt. Rae Murphy Scholarship

"Sea Base has played a significant role in shaping the person I am today. My time there provided me with countless unforgettable memories, meaningful experiences, valuable life lessons, and lifelong connections. It was truly extraordinary, and I was blessed to be able to start and complete my Open Water Scuba Diver Certification during my time there. Working the evening shift in the Galley gave me the freedom to spend my mornings exploring Islamorada and discovering the beauty of the Florida Keys. Every day was a mix of adventure, learning, and personal growth.”

Tim Kusterbeck

Sea Exploring / ECO STEM Mate - Pippin Family Scholarship

"My time in the Florida Keys has been nothing short of incredible. From sailing in crystal-clear waters to learning vital marine conservation skills, this experience has opened my eyes to the beauty and fragility of our ocean ecosystems. Sea Base has not only deepened my passion for environmental stewardship but also strengthened my teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills. As someone hoping to pursue a career in marine biology and coastal management, these lessons will stay with me for a lifetime."

Mary Lollar

Keys Adventure Mate - Greg Adams Scholarship

"My time in the Florida Keys has been life-changing, allowing me to grow as a leader, educator, and steward of the environment. I’ve loved teaching scouts about marine life, snorkeling with them as they spot sea turtles, and sharing conservation principles that align with my studies in environmental science. This experience has strengthened my desire to pursue a career in wildlife conservation and environmental education."

Zachary Minnich

SCUBA Adventure / Liveaboard Mate- Greg Adams Scholarship

"My time at Sea Base was full of ups and downs, but I’ve grown tremendously through it all. I learned how to be a strong leader and work safely and effectively with a constantly changing team. These lessons will stick with me as I continue my education at school. At Sea Base I met people from all walks of life and realized that success doesn’t have to mean a typical 9–5. It can come from pursuing what I love, and for me, that’s diving and sharing that passion with others."

Abbey Polverari

Keys Adventure Mate - Greg Adams Scholarship

"There is no feeling like seeing the wildlife around the Keys for the first time, like seeing sharks asleep underneath the reef, stingrays gliding by, parrot fish of every size and color, or dolphins riding in the wake of the boat. In addition, Sea Base really brings together some of the best people I have ever met, whether it be the staff, scouts, or adult leaders, all of which who came to Sea Base because of their passion or curiosity about the Keys. I have had more new and exciting experiences in the past three months than I probably have had in the past three years, and can say without a doubt that it is the biggest adventure I have been on so far in my life. The work, dedication, and passion that goes into this place creates something that I don't think can be copied anywhere else."

Alexander Reives

Keys Adventure Mate - Greg Adams Scholarship

"Working in the Florida Keys has been an incredible experience—both professionally and personally. I’ve had the chance to grow as a leader, work with people from all over the country, and apply what I’ve learned in my environmental science major to a totally new ecosystem. Being surrounded by the ocean and marine life has expanded my view of the natural world and inspired me to continue learning and protecting it."

Kara Rumage

Sea Exploring / ECO STEM Mate - Greg Adams Scholarship

"My time at Sea Base has been nothing short of phenomenal. After this summer, I feel more confident and capable as I step out into the real world. I feel very fortunate to have had this experience living in the beautiful Florida Keys and spending every day out on the water. I remember reading the quote "why make a wish when you can live the dream" on my very first day at Sea Base and wondering how true that could really be. But every day since, I truly have been living the dream. Thank you for this opportunity to continue living the dream here at Sea Base. I am forever changed!"

Addison Schmidt

Out Island Adventure Mate - Greg Adams Scholarship

"Sea Base has transformed me. I’ve discovered a passion for fishing, grown as a leader, and become far more resilient. Growing up in the Mountain West, I never imagined unhooking mahi or gaffing a lemon shark, but now I crave the adrenaline and cherish even the smallest fishing sounds—like a clicker trolling or a grunt being unhooked. The enthusiasm of the staff is contagious, and being named Staff Member of the Year by people I admire was incredibly meaningful. I’ve learned to lead through trial, reflection, and feedback, and found that showing up with heart matters. I nearly quit during training due to mosquitos and struggled sleeping outside. Now, I sleep under the stars, often on bare sand, more peacefully than in my own bed. Munson once felt out of reach—now it feels like home. This growth, joy, and self-discovery is all thanks to Sea Base!"

Isabelle Story

Ship’s Store - Greg Adams Scholarship

"Being a Sea Base staff member helped me grow in my weaknesses while also reassuring and emboldening the strengths in me. I acquired and developed so many wonderful character traits because of this time that will greatly impact not just when I return to school, but when I return to the rest of my life."

Joshua Zotter

Boat Mate - Greg Adams Scholarship

"I’m incredibly grateful for the unforgettable summer I’ve had working in the scuba department, bonding with amazing staff, and enjoying the beauty of Sea Base—on and off the water. I especially appreciate the hands-on experience I’ve gained related to my Mechanical Engineering major while working on the 46' Dive Newton, the BSA Centennial Eagle."