IYRS School of Technology & Trades has named Marie Ostrand of Newport as the inaugural recipient of the Glo Tech Scholarship Fund.
Established in February 2024, the scholarship honors the legacy of Gloria Aurora Borrego, a trailblazer in the marine industry whose career spanned high-performance marine systems, motorsports and major expeditionary projects including the Whitbread Round the World Race and Diana Nyad’s record-setting swim.
Ostrand, an accomplished offshore sailor, will use the award to pursue Yachtmaster Certification.
“Completing Yachtmaster will open doors for me to lead at sea and inspire other women to pursue technical excellence in this industry,” Ostrand said.
The scholarship was created through an endowed gift fund from Borrego’s champions and friends. It supports women professionals advancing their careers in marine trades and advanced manufacturing, industries where Borrego broke barriers and set new standards of excellence.
“The Glo Tech Scholarship Fund ensures Gloria’s legacy lives on by opening doors for women who share her passion for innovation and excellence,” said Liz Isdale, vice president of advancement at IYRS.
Applications for next year’s scholarship will be accepted Sept. 1 through Nov. 15, 2026. For more information about the Glo Tech Scholarship Fund and eligibility requirements, visit iyrs.edu/careers/glo-tech.