Fabio Exploration Fund
The Michael P. Fabio Exploration Fund is an endowed fund held by the MSSM Foundation dedicated to support the pursuit of knowledge through hands-on learning, innovation, and exploratory experience.
Michael Fabio, an MSSM Alumnus from the class of 1998, epitomized the spirit of MSSM. He was always seeking how things worked, why they worked in the way that they did, and how to make them work better. In Mike’s memory, The Michael P. Fabio Exploration Fund provides grants to students of the MSSM community for the pursuit of knowledge through hands-on and project-based learning, that help fuel students’ passions and curiosities.
The Michael P. Fabio Exploration Fund grant provided a unique opportunity for me to explore and learn. Reflecting on my journey, the challenges and learning experiences were integral to my growth as a student and an aspiring computer scientist. The grant served not only as financial support but also as an impetus to explore unfamiliar territories and strive for innovation. Overall, I am extremely great full for the Michael P. Fabio Exploration Fund and I believe that the grants awarded have a larger impact than the immediate results of the project.
Gabriel Kirmani ‘25, Grant Recipient
Process
Applications for funding from the Michael P Fabio Exploration Fund are open to all MSSM students and are accepted in the spring. Applicants are required to submit a letter of intent, project scope, and budget. Students will then present their project and request for funding to a small panel of evaluators to determine funding.
Past Projects
The Michael P. Fabio Fund has funded projects ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars in cost. One of the Fund’s primary goal is to encourage hands-on, independent, experiential learning that often takes place outside the classroom or traditional academic environment. Examples of funded projects include:
- Building a four bit computer from scratch;
- Travel to the American Southwest to explore the differences in administration between state and national parks
- Building an affordable astrophotography mount
- Designing an autonomous boat
- Growth system for algal biofuel feedstock
- Support for hiking Katahdin
Meet our Director
Rob brings with him a long and varied professional background that is deeply embedded in residential schools. Most recently, Rob was Chief Financial Officer of the White Mountain School in Bethlehem, New Hampshire.
Academics
The Maine School of Science and Mathematics (MSSM) stands as a beacon of academic excellence in both state and national rankings.As affirmed by Niche.com, MSSM is the premier choice for STEM in Maine. At MSSM, not only will students face challenges, but they'll also achieve unparalleled success.
Why Boarding?
Choosing the right school for your child is a monumental decision that can shape their future in profound ways. While public and private day schools are common choices that excellently serve some students, boarding schools offer a distinctive and enriching alternative that can significantly benefit a student’s personal and academic growth