Twenty years ago, NOAA created the Dr. Nancy Foster Scholarship Program in honor of the late Dr. Nancy Foster. This scholarship provides support for independent graduate-level studies in oceanography, marine biology, or maritime archaeology disciplines, including all science, engineering, social science, and resource management of ocean and coastal areas. Based on language within the National Marine Sanctuaries Act, an emphasis was put on strongly encouraging women and members of minority groups to apply for the scholarship. To date, scholarship selections have been based on academic excellence, letters of recommendation, research and career goals, and financial need.