Mystic -- Mystic Seaport Museum has announced that it will present its 2019 America and the Sea Award to businesswoman and philanthropist Wendy Schmidt.

The award recognizes individuals and organizations "for achievements in the area of maritime exploration, competition, scholarship, and design that best exemplify the American character."

Among her numerous initiatives, Schmidt is the president of The Schmidt Family Foundation, which supports programs in renewable energy, healthy food and agriculture and human rights. Schmidt Marine Technology Partners supports the development of new ocean technologies with applications for conservation and research in areas including habitat health, marine plastic pollution, and sustainable fisheries.

Schmidt is also a co-founder with her husband, Eric, of the Schmidt Ocean Institute, which operates the research vessel Falkor. Since 2013, more than 500 scientists from 30 countries have conducted research on the ship.

Two years ago, the couple launched the Schmidt Science Fellows program, a post-doctoral fellowship with a $100 million commitment to promote scientific leadership and interdisciplinary research. 

She has also sponsored two XPRIZE Challenge Prizes focused on ocean health and has worked with the 2017-18 Volvo Ocean Race and the Vestas 11th Hour Racing team to promote sustainability and ocean health. 

“We are delighted to honor Wendy’s passion for and dedication to the sea. She stands as an exemplar for maritime studies and stewardship, and thus it is an honor for us to call more attention to her noteworthy work,” said museum President Steve White in a press release announcing the award.

The award will be presented at a black tie gala in New York City on Oct. 30.