Charlton launches paid fellowships connecting students with the Blue Economy

Twenty business students will apply classroom learning to projects with regional companies and organizations

Twenty UMass Dartmouth business students are gaining paid experience in the region’s blue economy through a new fellowship program connecting classroom learning with projects for local companies and organizations.

Developed in partnership with Courage Builder, the inaugural Blue Economy Innovation Fellows Program focuses on the business needs of organizations working in ocean technology, marine industries, and related fields. Students will contribute to projects ranging from market research and business planning to marketing and social media.

"Experiential learning is the hallmark of a Charlton education," said Madan Annavarjula, dean of the Charlton College of Business. "These fellowships give students the opportunity to apply what they’re learning in class, build relationships with regional employers, and get paid while gaining that experience."

Supported by a 2024 grant from the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries, 20 students will be paid to complete business projects for regional organizations while gaining professional experience. More than 40 students applied for the inaugural cohort.

Courage Builder recruited participating organizations and helped coordinate project opportunities. Each organization identifies a business need and provides guidance as students work toward a final presentation on December 17.

"Experiential learning is the hallmark of a Charlton education. These fellowships give students the opportunity to apply what they’re learning in class, build relationships with regional employers, and get paid while gaining that experience."

Jessica CamTu Nguyen '28, an accounting major, is working with the Southeastern Regional Planning and Economic Development District (SRPEDD) on market research and white paper development. Her assignment focuses on the healthcare industry in southeastern Massachusetts.

"I was drawn to the Blue Innovation Fellows program because it offers a chance to work on real regional economic challenges," Nguyen said. "As an accounting major, I wanted to see how financial analysis can support planning and economic development, and to build professional skills beyond what a classroom can offer."

Nguyen plans to draw on her accounting coursework, including interpreting financial data and evaluating details, to research market trends and develop a well-supported white paper.

Senior marketing major Branden Schenck is helping Blue Venture Forum promote the Blue Innovation Symposium, scheduled for March 8–10, 2027. The Newport, Rhode Island-based nonprofit supports the growth of the marine and oceanographic technology industry.

"I look forward to learning more about the marine and ocean technology industry while helping promote an event that brings attention to innovation in the blue economy," Schenck said. "I also hope this experience will allow me to strengthen my marketing skills, gain valuable hands-on experience, and develop the business knowledge I need to prepare for my future career."

Participating organizations receive support on business projects while mentoring students and building relationships with potential future employees.

The program began this fall and includes approximately 85 paid hours per student, encompassing project work, research, and preparation. Annavarjula hopes to build on the inaugural cohort and expand opportunities for students to learn by working with regional employers.

This story was co-written by Jackie Sassin BS '26, MBA '27, a marketing major and University Marketing intern.