The Dr. Albert José Jones Scholarship
Continuing a 70-year lifetime of service, barrier-breaking access, and underwater exploration.
Established to honor Dr. “Doc” Jones — Purple Heart veteran, Fulbright Scholar, National Science Foundation Fellow, former Dean and Provost at UDC, marine biologist, and founder of the Underwater Adventure Seekers (1959) and co-founder of the National Association of Black Scuba Divers (1991).
Purple Heart Combat Veteran · Fulbright Scholar · Master Scuba Instructor · Marine Biologist · UAS Founder
“If you never see anyone who looks like you doing something, you probably won't do it.”
— Dr. Albert José “Doc” Jones
Dr. Jones has worked tirelessly for seven decades to change that reality for thousands of people. The Dr. Albert José Jones Scholarship exists to continue his life’s work.
A lifetime of service to country, community, and the sea
The Dr. Albert José Jones Scholarship was established to honor Dr. “Doc” Jones’ enduring legacy of a lifetime of service. He is a Purple Heart veteran, Fulbright Scholar, National Science Foundation Fellow, former Dean of the College of Life Sciences, Chair of the Environmental Science Department, Provost and Vice President at the University of the District of Columbia, marine biologist, and master scuba instructor.
“Doc” has been a tireless champion of equal access to the underwater world for seven decades. As the founder of the Underwater Adventure Seekers (UAS) in 1959 — one of the oldest African American scuba clubs in the world — and co-founder of the National Association of Black Scuba Divers (NABS) in 1991, “Doc” has spent his life breaking down racial and economic barriers in diving and marine science.
He has personally certified thousands of divers free of charge and inspired generations to explore and protect the aquatic environment. “Doc” and his family are deeply honored that the work he has dedicated his life to will continue through the generous support of donors.
Purple Heart recipient, NSF Fellow, and Fulbright Scholar dedicated to civic empowerment.
Certifying thousands of divers free of charge to eliminate cost barriers to the ocean.
Empowering diverse voices beneath the surface
The scholarship will expand access for students from underrepresented and marginalized communities to scuba diving, marine sciences and conservation, and maritime archaeology. The purpose is to ensure that future generations of diverse voices have the tools, training, and opportunities to connect people to the world beneath the surface of the ocean, allowing them to tell the rich stories of life and death that exist there.
Scuba Diving & Dive Leadership
Aspiring recreational, scientific, and commercial divers seeking foundational or advanced certifications.
Marine Sciences & Ocean Conservation
Students pursuing biology, ecology, oceanography, coral restoration, and environmental policy.
Maritime Archaeology & Cultural Heritage
Researchers documenting historic shipwrecks, submerged ancestral memorials, and submerged African diaspora heritage.
Science Journalism & Aquatic Storytelling
Writers, photographers, videographers, and communicators dedicated to sharing the stories of the ocean realm.
Four comprehensive award components
More than just financial aid — a complete pathway from certification to field immersion and mentorship.
Open Water Scuba Certification
Full coverage of professional training, pool sessions, academic coursework, dive gear rental, and Open Water certification fees with accredited instructors.
Supervised Real-World Field Expedition
A guided, supervised diving experience in an authentic marine environment, honing technical dive skill sets and providing real-time exposure to underwater exploration and storytelling.
Direct Academic & Educational Stipend
Financial assistance to offset tuition, research equipment, lab fees, travel, and materials for educational pursuits in diving, marine science, conservation, or science journalism.
1-on-1 Professional Mentorship Pairing
Dedicated pairing with an established trailblazer in marine sciences and conservation, underwater cultural heritage / maritime archaeology, or science journalism.
Dr. Jones recording scientific observations on an underwater slate on coral reef surveys.
Who can apply and how recipients are chosen
Eligibility Snapshot
The scholarship is open to high school, undergraduate, and graduate students from underrepresented or marginalized communities who demonstrate a passion for one or more of the following fields:
Selection Criteria
Putting diverse students in the water, in the field, and in front of audiences
The Dr. Albert José Jones Scholarship exists to continue his life’s work — to put diverse students in the water, in the field, and in front of audiences, so the stories of our oceans, our heritage, and our environment will be told by all of us.
Invest in the next generation of divers and marine leaders
100% of your gift to the Dr. Albert José Jones Scholarship directly underwrites open-water certification, field training expeditions, educational stipends, and professional mentorship.
Secure tax-deductible contribution. Instant receipt emailed.
Ready to apply or partner with the scholarship fund?
Applications open to high school, undergraduate, and graduate students. Schools, universities, and dive organizations are invited to partner with the UAS Divers Foundation.