U. S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MARITIME ADMINISTRATION
UNITED STATES
MERCHANT MARINE ACADEMY
KINGS POINT, NEW YORK
AWARDS BULLETIN
CLASS OF 2020
UNITED STATES MERCHANT MARINE ACADEMY
Our Mission
To educate and graduate leaders of exemplary character who are inspired to serve the national security, marine transportation, and economic needs of the United States as licensed Merchant Marine Officers and commissioned officers in the Armed Forces.
List of Awards Presented to the Class of 2020
1. THE BAILEY MEMORIAL AWARD
Prize: $500 Criteria: A Marine Engineering MIDN who has consistently manifested the qualities of a mature officer such as loyalty, integrity, leadership, bearing and aptitude for service with the highest GPA (grade point average) and successfully held an officer billet Selected by: Marine Engineering Department Sponsor: Newport News Shipbuilding, Div. of Huntington Ingalls Industries
Recipient: TODD WILLIAM BERTELS, JR.
2. THE NATIONAL SOCIETY DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION AWARD
Prize: $500 Criteria: A MIDN who attains the highest GPA in Naval Science Selected by: Naval Science Department Sponsor: National Society Daughters of the American Revolution
Recipient: WILLIAM QUIGLEY
3. THE AMERICAN BUREAU OF SHIPPING AWARD
Prize: $1,000 Criteria: A Marine Transportation MIDN who has consistently manifested the qualities of an exemplary deck officer such as loyalty, integrity, leadership, bearing and aptitude for service based on grades, regiment and sea year evaluations. Selected by: Marine Transportation Department Sponsor: American Bureau of Shipping
Recipient: KARSTEN DAVID TRIBUS
4. THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF MARINE UNDERWRITERS (AIMU) AWARD
Prize: $750 Criteria: A Maritime Logistics and Security MIDN who attains the highest grade in the Chartering and Brokerage Course Selected by: Marine Transportation Department Sponsor: American Institute of Marine Underwriters
Recipient: WILLIAM QUIGLEY
6. SONS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION CAPT. JOSEPH RAMSEY MEMORIAL AWARD
Prize: $500 Criteria: A MIDN who has maintained academic excellence in tankership operations, liquid cargo handling and marine pollution prevention/control and has superior performance in sea service and internship evaluations Selected by: Marine Transportation Sponsor: Sanborn Yearwood & Associates
Recipient: ROBERT GAINES
8. THE ADMIRAL LAND MEDAL AND AWARD
Prize: $500 Criteria: A MIDN who is most outstanding in Naval Architecture Selected by: Marine Engineering Department Sponsor: Superintendent
Recipient: THOMAS ALEXANDER SEMON
10. THE SURFACE NAVY ASSOCIATION HARRY R. YAGEL AWARD –
Prize: Value of $100 Criteria: A MIDN who has demonstrated excellence in both academic and regimental performance and is entering active Naval Service as a Surface Warfare Officer Selected by: Department of Naval Science Sponsor: Surface Navy Association, NY Chapter Presenter: Mr. Michael R. Ales, PE, Dept. of Engineering
Recipient: JOHN EDWARD COUGHLAN
12. THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF NAVAL ENGINEERS AWARD -
Prize: $350 & Framed Certificate, ASNE Criteria: A Marine Engineering MIDN who has the highest cumulative average in the engineering science courses: Statics, Dynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Strength of Materials, and Thermodynamics. In addition, the recipient shall be eligible for and accept a Naval Reserve Commission. Selected by: Marine Engineering Department faculty Sponsor: American Society of Naval Engineers
Recipient: BRYAN WHITE
14. DR. JAMES E. ALLEN, ’62 - SCHOLASTIC ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Prize: $1000 Criteria: MIDN who has the highest GPA in physics and chemistry Selected by: Math and Science Department Sponsor: USMMAAAF– gift from Klaus C. Rohr, ’62 and Eugene Mattioni, ’62 on behalf of the Mattioni family
Recipients: TODD WILLIAM BERTELS, JR.
15. THE MARITIME ASSOCIATION OF THE PORT OF NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY AWARD
Prize: $500 Criteria: A Marine Transportation MIDN who in the opinion of the graduating class, possesses the qualities/attributes to become an outstanding Deck Officer based on grades, regiment and sea year Selected by: Marine Transportation Dept. - nominees submitted by Class of 2020 Sponsor: Maritime Association of the Port of New York and New Jersey
Recipient: KARSTEN DAVID TRIBUS
16. THE NAVY LEAGUE OF THE UNITED STATES AWARD IN MEMORY OF ADMIRAL EMORY SCOTT LAND
Prize: $250 Criteria: A Marine Engineering MIDN who has the highest combined average in the Electrical Engineering Concentration courses Selected by: Marine Engineering Department faculty Sponsor: Navy League of the United States
Recipient: TYLER ALLEN
17. THE EXCELLENCE IN CARGO OPERATIONS AWARD
Prize: $500 and a National Cargo Bureau Engraved Medallion Criteria: A Marine Transportation MIDN who displays outstanding interest, imagination, endeavor and academic achievement in the field of cargo handling, stowage and securing; based upon course grades in the cargo portion of the Midshipman's Sea Project and academic excellence in the marine materials handling sequence Selected by: Marine Transportation Department Sponsor: National Cargo Bureau
Recipient: KARSTEN DAVID TRIBUS
20. THE NATIONAL SOCIETY DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN COLONISTS AWARD - Established in 1979 (Revised in 2012)
Prize: $500 Criteria: An outstanding female MIDN who has the highest cumulative average within a Deck License curriculum Selected by: Marine Transportation Department Sponsor: National Society Daughters of the American Colonists
Recipient: LAURA MAJEWSKI
23. THE INSTITUTE OF NAVIGATION AWARD - Established in 1988
Prize: $250 Criteria: A Marine Transportation MIDN who has the highest grades on the Navigation section of the U. S. Coast Guard Third Mate's License Examination administered in June Selected by: Marine Transportation Department Sponsor: Institute of Navigation
Recipient: TBD
25. THE MATTHEW I. DE LUCA, SR. AWARD - Established in 1989
Prize: $2,500 Criteria: A MIDN who has demonstrated scholastic excellence in "Ship Chartering and Operations" and who displays outstanding qualities of hard work, integrity and humility Selected by: MID-SHIP Marine’s Board of Directors with Marine Transportation Department Sponsor: MID-SHIP MARINE, Inc., - in honor and memory of its Chairman, Matthew I. De Luca, Sr.
Recipient: WILLIAM QUIGLEY
26. THE FRIENDS OF THE AMERICAN MERCHANT MARINE MUSEUM (AMMM) AWARD – Established 2016
Prize: $250 Criteria: Two MIDN who supported the USMMA Museum to improve and increase its level of operation Selected by: Board of AMMM Sponsor: Friends of the American Merchant Marine Museum
Recipient: ROBERT BEARDSLEY
28. THE SOCIETY OF NAVAL ARCHITECTS AND MARINE ENGINEERS (SNAME) CLUB SERVICE AWARD
Prize: $250 with certificate - Name displayed on perpetual plaque located outside Ackerman Auditorium Criteria: A Marine Engineering MIDN who provided the highest level of support, dedication, service and assistance to the SNAME Club during their first class year at the Academy Selected by: USMMAAF Executive Board Sponsor: USMMA Alumni Foundation Mid-Hudson Chapter Exec. Board
Recipient: COLLIN KEIL
30. THE BETTY H. OLCHIN/CAPTAIN SAMUEL LONDYNSKY MEMORIAL AWARD
Prize: $500 Criteria: A MIDN who has shown outstanding achievement and aptitude in the Admiralty Law and Chartering/Brokerage courses at the Academy Selected by: Marine Transportation Department Sponsor: USMMAAAF– gift from Betty H. Olchin/Captain Samuel Londynsky Memorial Fund
Recipient: ERIC SOBOCINSKI
32. THE CAPTAIN WILLIAM AND DR. ARLYNE O’GARA AWARDS
Prize: Five $750 awards. An additional $500 award given to the MIDN whose overall Cumulative Grade Point Average improvement is highest in the graduating class Criteria: A MIDN in each major who has achieved the greatest increase in Cumulative GPA since the end of his/her Plebe year Selected by: Academic Dean Sponsor: USMMAAAF– gift from Dr. Arlyne O’Gara and the late Capt. William O’Gara, ‘44
Recipients: MATTHEW TONG ALEJANDRO URBINA COOPER SIEPERT FILIPA MARTINOVIC REMINGTON WILSON
33. SONS OF THE REVOLUTION IN THE STATE OF NEW YORK, INC. CAPTAIN CONYNGHAM AWARD FOR SERVICE AT SEA
Prize: $500 Criteria: A Marine Transportation MIDN who has the best overall performance at sea (Sea year projects and ship evaluations) and who intends to sail after graduation
Selected by: Professional Development and Career Services Department and Marine Transportation Department Sponsor: Sons of the Revolution in the State of New York
Recipient: WILLIAM RAY SCOTT
34. MILITARY ORDER OF FOREIGN WARS AWARD
Prize: $250 Criteria: A MIDN who wrote the best leadership essay in the Navy Leadership course who is going on active duty Selected by: Naval Science Department Sponsor: Military Order of Foreign Wars of the U.S.
Recipient: ROBERT GAINES
35. ACE SERVICE ABOVE SELF AWARD
Prize: $200 each Criteria: Two MIDN who demonstrated the most dedication to the ACE over 4 years at the Academy Selected by: Director, Academic Center for Excellence Sponsor: Academic Dean
Recipients: ERIC SOBOCINSKI FILIPIA MARTINOVIC
36. THE ARTURO DIAZ MASTER SHIPBUILDER AWARD
Prize: $500 and certificate – Name displayed on perpetual plaque outside Ackerman Auditorium Criteria: A Marine Engineering MIDN who has attained the highest grade in the Marine Engineering and Shipyard Management Senior Capstone Project Selected by: Marine Engineering Department faculty Sponsor: USMMAAAF – gift from friends and classmates of Arturo Diaz
Recipient: WAYNE WITHEROW
37. THE RUSSELL F. MAGNA MEMORIAL AWARD
Prize: $1,000 Criteria: A Marine Engineering MIDN who has attained the highest overall cumulative grade point average in the Marine Engineering and Shipyard Management Major Selected by: Marine Engineering Department faculty Sponsor: Mrs. Judy Magna in memory of her husband, Russell F. Magna, ‘59
Recipient: WAYNE WITHEROW
39. THE MASTERS, MATES AND PILOTS GOOD SHIPMATE AWARD
Prize: Marine Binoculars and $1500 credit towards full MM&P membership Criteria: A Marine Transportation MIDN who is an Associate Member, Masters, Mates & Pilots that displays the qualities of “Acta non verba” Selected by: Masters, Mates and Pilots Company with approval from the Department of Marine Transportation Sponsor: International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots
Recipient: KARSTEN DAVID TRIBUS
40. CAPTAIN LAWRENCE JARETT EXCELLENCE IN LAW AWARD
Prize: $250 Criteria: A MIDN who has achieved the highest grades in the Admiralty and International Law courses Selected by: Marine Transportation Department Head Sponsor: USMMAAAF – gift from the family in honor of CAPT Lawrence Jarett, an honored faculty member for over 50 years. At one time, he headed the Department of Maritime Law and Economics and was the first Marine Transportation Department Head. He also spent a year as Acting Dean of the Academy. He practiced the motto, “He who dares to teach must never cease to learn”
Recipient: ROBERT GAINES
42. THE EHRHARDT FIRST CLASSMEN EMS SERVICE AWARD
Prize: $500 each – Names displayed on perpetual plaque in Patton Hall Criteria: Two MIDN EMTs who are members of the Emergency Medical Services program and displayed the highest levels of courage, commitment, integrity and leadership, and has a minimum 2.65 GPA Selected by: USMMA Department of Health Services with EMS Supervisory Staff Sponsor: USMMAAAF - gift from Mr. Christian J. H. Ehrhardt
Recipients: ALLY MCFADYEN CHRISTOPHER CASHMAN
43. USMMAAF MID-HUDSON CHAPTER PROPELLER CLUB SERVICE AWARD
Prize: $125 each Criteria: Two MIDN who provided the highest level of support, dedication, service and assistance to the Academy Propeller Club during her/his first class year Selected by: USMMA Alumni Foundation Mid-Hudson Chapter Executive Board Sponsor: USMMA Alumni Foundation Mid-Hudson Chapter Executive Board
Recipients: ALEXANDER STOYKA DANIEL STERN
44. THE ASSOCIATION OF AVERAGE ADJUSTERS OF THE UNITED STATES – OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD IN STUDY OF CHARTERING/BR
Prize: $500 Criteria: A MIDN who in the estimation of the instructor, is a top student in the Chartering and Brokerage Course and has a deep interest in the subject Selected by: Marine Transportation Department Marine Insurance instructor Sponsor: Association of Average Adjusters of the United States
Recipient: WILLIAM QUIGLEY
46. WARTSILA AWARD
Prize: $1,000 Criteria: A Marine Transportation MIDN who is the top Deck midshipman based on grades in the RADAR/ARPA class and having demonstrated exceptional skills and interest in not only the art, but the modern science of electronic navigation Selected by: Marine Transportation Department (RADAR/ARPA instructors) Sponsor: TRANSAS USA
Recipient: ROBERT GAINES
47. THE ALOYSIUS A. NORTON AWARD
Prize: $300 Criteria: MIDN who in the opinion of an interdisciplinary panel of the judges, wrote the best analytic essay on a work of poetry, drama, fiction, or literature and film Selected by: Humanities Department Sponsor: Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War 1861-1865 - in memory of Professor Aloysius A. Norton. He loved literature and kindled that love in young people, guiding them through their reading, in their development of a deeper life of the spirit
Recipient: JOSEPH SANDLIN
51. INSTITUTE OF WORLD POLITICS (IWP) AWARD
Prize: $250 Each Criteria: Project Team with the Highest Grade Points in the Maritime Security Research course Selected by: Department of Marine Transportation each submit six nominees Sponsor: Institute of World Politics
Recipients: SEVERIN BLENKUSH TANNER CARTER ALYSSA MARIE DEGUZMAN MARK KITTELSON
52. THE AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICERS SERVICE AWARD
Prize: $1,000 Criteria: Two MIDN, one Marine Engineering and one Marine Transportation major, who in the opinion of members of the graduating class, and based on grades regiment and sea year evaluations, possess the qualities and attributes to become outstanding Maritime Officers. Selected by: Marine Engineering/Marine Transportation each submit six nominees; recipients then selected by the 2020 MIDN Sponsor: American Maritime Officers
Recipient: KARSTEN DAVID TRIBUS TBD
53. THE SEARIVER MARITIME, INC. AWARD
Prize: TBD Criteria: Two MIDN, one Marine Engineering and one Marine Transportation major, who have excelled in the studies related to the carriage of bulk liquid cargo, thereby demonstrating the potential for valuable service to the tanker industry Selected by: Marine Transportation and Marine Engineering Departments Sponsor: SeaRiver Maritime, Inc.
Recipient: ZACHARY KAGLE ROBERT GAINES
55. SPILL CONTROL ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA (SCAA) CLASS OF 2009 ENVIRONMENTAL EXCELLENCE AWARD – Established in 2009
Prize: TBD Criteria: A MIDN who has demonstrated outstanding interest, creativity, initiative and commitment to environmental excellence in the performance of his/her course of study Selected by: Department Head of Marine Transportation Sponsor: Spill Control Association of America (SCAA) Presenter: Brian K. Bell, Associate Director, National Response Corporation
Recipient: WILLIAM QUIGLEY
56. THE MARINE SOCIETY OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK AWARD
Prize: $250 Plus lifetime membership into the Marine Society Criteria: A MIDN who has the highest sea project grades and demonstrated outstanding interest, aptitude and high proficiency in seagoing activities at the Academy Selected by: Professional Development and Career Services Department Sponsor: Marine Society of the City of New York
Recipient: TBD
58. THE NATIONAL AMERICAN LEGION AWARD
Prize: $500 Criteria: A MIDN who has contributed most to the success of the Color Guard Selected by: Commandant of Midshipmen Sponsor: National American Legion
Recipient: ALEXANDER BISCARDI
59. THE REAR ADMIRAL MARK H. BUZBY, ‘79 AWARD
Prize: $500 Criteria: A MIDN who has contributed to the Academy's Waterfront Program, is entering active military service, and who has demonstrated excellence in academic and regimental performance Selected by: Director of Waterfront Activities, Naval Science Department Head, the Academic Dean and the Commandant of Midshipmen Sponsor: USMMA Sailing Foundation
Recipient: MARK HAYTON
60. NATIONAL VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES AWARD
Prize: $300 Criteria: A MIDN who has demonstrated excellence in both academic and regimental performance, has exhibited exceptional qualities of patriotism and leadership through performance in an assigned Midshipman Officer billet and is entering active military service Selected by: Academic Dean, Commandant of Midshipmen, and Naval Science Department Head Sponsor: National Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States
Recipient: MATTHEW MILNER
62. APL LIMITED AWARD
Prize: $500 Criteria: A MIDN who successfully completed the elective courses for the Cyber Security Concentration and is distinguished in cyber security – either academically or through practical development and application of IT solutions or cyber security Selected by: Marine Transportation Department with instructors of Maritime Business Sponsor: APL Limited
Recipient: JESUS ZAMBRANO
63. THE VIGILANT FIRE COMPANY EMS AWARD
Prize: $500 Criteria: A MIDN, who exemplifies the best qualities of EMS service and leadership to the Great Neck Community. Selected by: Vigilant Fire Company Officers Sponsor: Vigilant Fire Company
Recipient: SARA COSENZA
65. THE CHARLES A. FOWLER, JR. AWARD
Prize: $500 Criteria: A MIDN who is going into active service and who exemplifies the values of the American Legion Selected by: American Legion Post and approved by Commandant Sponsor: American Legion, Great Neck Post #160
Recipient: CONNOR GREEN
66. CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS DISTINGUISHED MIDSHIPMEN GRADUATE AWARD
Prize: Value of $50 Criteria: A US Navy Merchant Marine Reserve MIDN who has demonstrated the highest standards of leadership, scholarship, and military performance Selected by: Selection made by the Naval Science Department OIC along with the Commandant of Midshipmen. Sponsor: Naval Science Department
Recipient: JOSEPH GRAMEGNA
68. THE CAPTAIN DOUGLAS A. HARD RESERVE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION AWARD
Prize: $250 Criteria: A Deck MIDN who has attained the highest cumulative average in all Navigation Law courses taken at sea and in residence. Selected by: Officer Advisor, Kings Point Chapter with concurrence of the Commandant of Midshipmen Sponsor: CAPT Douglas A. Hard, ’62, Professor Emeritus
Recipient: WILLIAM RAY SCOTT
70. NEW YORK COMMANDERY, NAVAL ORDER OF THE UNITED STATES AWARD
Prize: Medallion plaque w/1-year membership in Naval Order to each Commander - Names displayed on perpetual plaque in Wiley Hall Criteria: The Regimental Commanders who have successfully discharged the duties of this high office Selected by: Commandant of Midshipmen Sponsor: New York Commandery, Naval Order of the United States
Recipients: JOHN (JC) HENDERSON KYLEIGH KAPPAS
71. THE CHAIRMAN'S AWARD OF THE U.S. MERCHANT MARINE ACADEMY ALUMNI FOUNDATION
Prize: $300 Criteria: The President of the First Class Selected by: Commandant of Midshipmen Sponsor: USMMAAAF
Recipient: PATRICK HUME
75. THE SUPERINTENDENT'S AWARD FOR SERVICE
Prize: $500 Criteria: A MIDN who has provided the highest level of service to the Academy, in memory of Irving Clark Thayer, Class of 1946 Selected by: Superintendent Sponsor: Superintendent
Recipient: JOSEPH VITELLI
77. THE THOMAS LEBLANC AWARD
Prize: $700 Criteria: A MIDN who has demonstrated achievement in athletics, excellence in scholarship and has manifested qualities of leadership and character Selected by: Physical Education and Athletics Department Head Sponsor: USMMA Class of 1984
Recipient: JOSEPH VITELLI
78. THE JOSEPH B. WILLIAMS AWARD
Prize: $300 Criteria: A MIDN who has demonstrated leadership in inter-group relations promoting inter-cultural understanding Selected by: Mulzac Scholarship Committee, USMMAAF Sponsor: USMMAAF - established by the Honorable Joseph B. Williams, ‘44, in memory of Captain Hugh Mulzac, the first African-American master of a United States Flag merchant vessel and pioneer in human relations
Recipient: TAYLOR HIGHTOWER
79. ADVANCEMENT OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AWARD
Prize: $200 Criteria: A MIDN who has contributed most to the advancement of the Academy’s academic programs outside the regular classroom Selected by: Academic Dean Sponsor: Academic Dean
Recipient: ROBERT GAINES
80. THE MARTHA E. SAMMOND MEMORIAL AWARD
Prize: $300 Criteria: A MIDN who contributed most significantly to the advancement of the Regiment of Midshipmen's Honor Code through service to the Honor Program and by exemplifying and promoting high standards of ethical conduct Selected by: Commandant of Midshipmen along with Honor Board Officer Advisor and Honor Review Board Chairman. Sponsor: USMMAAF - gift from the family of Martha E. Sammond
Recipient: JAKE ERIKSON
81. THE H. KERNER SMITH JR, ’66 NUCLEAR ENGINEERING AWARD
Prize: $500 Criteria: 3rd TERM - A Marine Engineering Systems MIDN, who is the most outstanding in the Nuclear Physics and Nuclear Engineering Electives Selected by: ME and M&S Sponsor: Mr. H. Kerner Smith
Recipient: RHYNE ANDERSON WHITLEY
82. THE JULIE A. BERKE ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Prize: $250 Criteria: A female MIDN who has demonstrated achievement in athletics, excellence in scholarship, qualities of leadership and character, and who has significantly advanced women's athletics at the Academy Selected by: Physical Education and Athletics Department Head Sponsor: Ms. Susan Bartlett, in memory of her mother, Ms. Julie A. Berke
Recipient: ERICA LOU
84. THE WALTER A. KAMINSKI CHARACTER AWARD
Prize: $300 Criteria: A MIDN who has demonstrated integrity, courage, enthusiasm, optimism, confidence, calmness, determination, patience and focus Selected by: Superintendent, Commandant of Midshipmen, Academic Dean, the Director of Athletics Sponsor: Ms. Laura Polos, in memory of her father, Walter Kaminski, who served for many years in a leadership role in the Kings Point Maritime Association and who dedicated himself to supporting Midshipmen
Recipient: TAYLOR HIGHTOWER
85. USMMA ALUMNI FOUNDATION SERVICE AWARD
Prize: $500 each Criteria: A MIDN who provided the highest level of support to the USMMA Alumni Foundation during their first class year at the Academy Selected by: USMMAAF Sponsor: USMMAAF
Recipients: GRANT CARTER JOHN (JC) HENDERSON
86. THE CAPTAIN DONALD J. FERGUSON MEMORIAL AWARD
Prize: $300 Criteria: A MIDN who reflects military pride and service to the Regiment Selected by: Commandant of Midshipmen Sponsor: Family of CAPT Donald Ferguson
Recipient: JOE GRAMEGNA
87. THE NATIONAL SOCIETY, DAUGHTERS OF FOUNDERS AND PATRIOTS OF AMERICA AWARD
Prize: $300 Criteria: A MIDN who attained the highest grades in her/his History courses Selected by: Humanities Department History instructors Sponsor: National Society, Daughters of Founders and Patriots of America
Recipient: ZOE CHANG
88. THE COL HEATHER BUONO LOGISTICS AWARD
Prize: Value of $500 Criteria: A MIDN who has the highest overall GPA in the Maritime Logistics and Security major and is commissioning in the Air Force Selected by: USAF Liaison officer Sponsors: The Hon. Kevin Billings and Gen. Duncan McNabb, USAF (Ret)
Recipient: CHRISTOPHER CASHMAN
89. THE SCOTT MICHAEL HEILMAN, JR. – LEADERSHIP, SCHOLARSHIP AND SERVICE AWARD
Prize: Value of $500 Criteria: A MIDN who has superior desire and aptitude to lead as demonstrated through performance in an officer billet and athletic leadership roles; leads and motivates from the front by example, demonstrates commitment to academic excellence through consistently high grades in all semesters, superior evaluations in all sea projects and who demonstrates exceptional service to the regiment, the PLC/MC Option program, a varsity team, entering plebes and who is entering active duty as an officer in the United States Marine Corps. Selected by: Commandant of Midshipmen, Marine Corps Representative, Academic Dean and Director of Athletics Sponsor: USMMAAF. – gift from Madeline P. Heilman in memory of her brother, 2LT Scott Michael Heilman, Jr. ’10, USMC
Recipient: KALEIGH D’ARCY
90. THE ROXIE DESTAFNEY SERVICE AWARD
Prize: $400 each Criteria: Two MIDN who have demonstrated strong involvement in voluntary service to our community Selected by: Commandant of Midshipmen, Dean, Chaplain, Alumni w/approval from USMMA National Parents Association Chair Sponsor: USMMAAF – gift from USMMA National Parents Association Presenter: Capt. William Fell
Recipient: TAYLOR CRISCI ELENA CHAMBERLAND
92. THE J. A. “RED” WAGNER MEMORIAL AWARD
Prize: $500 Criteria: A Marine Engineering football player, who is an ‘unsung hero’– dedicated, devoted, and loves the game. Selected by: Football Coach with the approval of Department Head, Physical Education and Athletics Sponsor: Mrs. Florence Wagner, in memory of her husband, J. A. “Red” Wagner, ‘45
Recipients: RYAN CHRISOM
93. THE SANDY HOOK PILOTS’ ASSOCIATION AWARD
Prize: $500 Criteria: A MIDN who, over the course of his/her Academy career, has acquired significant knowledge of the waters of Western Long Island Sound, East, River, Upper Bay and Lower Bay, & Hudson River and familiarity by serving as MIC or Conning Officer aboard a variety of Academy training vessels while transiting these waterways Selected by: Director of the Waterfront Sponsor: Sandy Hook Pilots’ Association
Recipient: EASTON HAZIM
ATHLETIC AWARDS
1. ACADEMIC DEAN’S AWARD
Criteria: Awarded to the varsity team with the highest combined GPA among its members. Honors a small athletic team up to 18 athletes Sponsor: Physical Education and Athletic Department
Recipient: Small Team: TENNIS Large Team: MEN’S TRACK & FIELD
2. ACADEMIC DEAN’S AWARD FOR MOST IMPROVED TEAM
Criteria: Awarded to the varsity team with the most improved cumulative GPA among its team members over the past academic year Sponsor: Physical Education and Athletic Department
Recipient: WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL
3. EASTERN COLLEGE ATHLETIC CONFERENCE (ECAC) MERIT AWARD
Criteria: This award is presented to the graduating male and female Midshipmen who have demonstrated excellence in the athletic arena, while maintaining good grades. Selected by: Head Coaches Sponsor: Physical Education and Athletic Department
Recipients: MATTHEW MILNER ANNA LEWIS
4. ECAC SCHOLAR-ATHLETE AWARD
Criteria: The ECAC Scholar-Athlete Award is presented annually to a male and female scholar-athlete. The minimum requirements for the award are a 3.2 cumulative GPA, and the athlete must have played a significant role on his or her team. This award is presented to the Midshipmen who have demonstrated excellence in the classroom while contributing to their chosen sport team. The names of the recipients of this award will be forwarded on to the ECAC for consideration for its ECAC Scholar-Athlete Award Selected by: Athletic Board Recommendation to the Superintendent Sponsor: Physical Education and Athletic Department
Recipients: JOHN COUGHLAN KALEIGH D’ARCY
5. CAPTAIN PERRY WALTER AWARD
Criteria: Established in 1999, this award is presented annually to the Midshipmen Team Mentor who best exemplifies the traits exhibited by Captain Perry Walter. Captain Walter was known for his guidance and dedication in academics, athletics, and regimental affairs for midshipman athletes Selected by: Head Coaches Sponsor: Physical Education and Athletic Department
Recipient: MICHAEL ALES, Associate Professor, Dept. of Marine Engineer
6. HERMAN BERKE ATHLETIC LEADERSHIP AWARD
Criteria: Established in 1999 by Julie A. Berke in memory of her husband, Herman Berke ’45, this award is presented annually to the graduating Midshipman who made significant contributions to both the athletics and regimental programs during his/her first class year at USMMA Selected by: Head Coaches Sponsor: Alumni Association and Foundation – gift in memory of Ms. Julie Berke
Recipient: KYLEIGH KAPPAS
7. DR. STEPHEN “BILL” OMELTCHENKO COACH OF THE YEAR AWARD
Criteria: The Coach “O” Award is presented annually to the United States Merchant Marine Academy Male Coach of the Year. In 2000, this award was renamed in recognition of Coach Omeltchenko, who dedicated 43 years to the Academy’s Cross Country/Track and Field Programs. A 1992 Inductee into the USMMA Athletic Hall of Fame, Coach Omeltchenko and the future winners of this award signify the utmost dedication, sportsmanship, enthusiasm, love, integrity, and perseverance in their chosen profession of coaching Selected by: Head Coaches Sponsor: Physical Education and Athletic Department
Recipient: SEAN TEDESCO, Men’s Swimming & Diving
8. SUE PETERSEN LUBOW FEMALE COACH OF THE YEAR AWARD
Criteria: The Lubow Award is presented annually to the United States Merchant Marine Academy Female Coach of the Year as chosen by the Head Coaches. This award was established in 2015 in recognition of Sue Petersen Lubow, who dedicated 35 years to the Academy’s Athletic Programs as Swim Coach and Director of Athletics. A 2014 Inductee into the USMMA Athletic Hall of Fame, Sue Petersen Lubow and the future winners of this award signify the utmost dedication, sportsmanship, enthusiasm, love, integrity, and perseverance in their chosen profession of coaching. Selected by: Head Coaches Sponsor: Physical Education and Athletic Department
Recipient: MATT DEMPSEY, Women’s Basketball
9. JULIE BERKE TROPHY
Criteria: Presented to a graduating first class female athlete for demonstrated athletic excellence throughout her career at USMMA, as selected by a committee appointed by the Superintendent. This award signifies the highest in achievement, sportsmanship, and general excellence in athletics. Selected by: Head Coaches Sponsor: Physical Education and Athletic Department
Recipient: KALEIGH D’ARCY
10. ADMIRAL GILES C. STEDMAN TROPHY
Criteria: The Admiral Giles C. Stedman Trophy is presented to a graduating first class male athlete for demonstrated athletic excellence throughout his career at USMMA as selected by a committee appointed by the Superintendent. The trophy signifies the highest in achievement, sportsmanship, and general excellence in athletics. Selected by: Head Coaches Sponsor: Physical Education and Athletic Department
Recipient: NOLAN MONAHAN
11. CAPTAIN JAMES LIEBERTZ MEMORIAL AWARD
Criteria: Presented in memory of Captain James Liebertz, who served as the Academy’s Athletic Director from 1950 – 1972. The award is given to someone who exemplifies the same traits of dedication, perseverance, enthusiasm and love for USMMA Athletics Selected by: Director of Athletics Sponsor: Physical Education and Athletics Department
Recipient: RADM JOACHIM “Jack” BUONO, USMS, SUPERINTENDENT
KINGS POINT SCHOLARS
The Kings Point Scholar Program provides a participating Midshipman an opportunity for self-directed and guided research under Faculty sponsorship and direction. This program of intense research around a chosen topic gives the Midshipman in-depth expertise in a particular subject and valuable research and writing experience. It also allows the Midshipman the opportunity to work closely with a Faculty mentor(s) in the pursuit of knowledge. The project may be maritime-related; however, the Scholar program also affords Midshipmen the opportunity to investigate a topic for which there is no formal study at the Academy. The project culminates with a presentation to the Academy community. The Midshipman’s diploma and transcript indicate this distinguished achievement.
TANNER JOSEPH CARTER Maritime Logistics and Security Dr. Josh Smith, Dept. of Humanities, Advisor
Motivated by Power, Led by Fear. Denuclearizing the Korean Peninsula
ROBERT JOSEPH GAINES Marine Transportation Dr. Patrick Speelman, Dept. of Humanities, Advisor
Senior Military Leadership in the Modern Age: Mitigating Battlespace Complexity Through Mission Command
FILIPA ROSAMARIE MARTINOVIC Marine Engineering & Shipyard Management Dr. Sergio Perez, Dept. of Engineering, Advisor
Computational Fluid Dynamics in Real-World Applications: Heat Exchangers
PRESENTATIONS TO FACULTY
THE SUE ALICE MCNULTY AWARD FOR DISTINGUISHED TEACHING
Prize: $300 and a plaque Criteria: Established by the late Vice Admiral Richard R. McNulty, USMS, in memory of his wife, this award is presented annually to the tenured faculty member who has served at the academy for a minimum of five years and has served at sea in the merchant marine on at least a second mate or second assistant engineer license. The faculty member is selected by the Midshipmen of the graduating class as the teacher who has contributed most to their education during their four years at the Academy. Established by the late Vice Admiral Richard R. McNulty, USMS, in memory of his wife.
Selected by: Graduating Class of 2020 Sponsor: CAPT Douglas A. Hard, ’62, Professor Emeritus
Recipient: CAPT DAVID PALMER, Professor, Engineering Department
VADM GORDON MCLINTOCK AWARD FOR EXEMPLARY LEADERSHIP
Prize: $300 Criteria: Awarded annually to the licensed, tenured mariner of the United States Maritime Service at Kings Point who, in the opinion of the graduating class, has served as an outstanding officer role model. The recipient must have served at the academy for a minimum of five years and have served at sea in the merchant marine on at least a second mate or second assistant engineer license, and exhibits qualities of character, officership, integrity and leadership so admirably exemplified by Admiral McLintock during his record- setting twenty-two years’ stewardship (1948-1970) as Superintendent of USMMA
Selected by: Graduating Class of 2020 Sponsor: CAPT Douglas A. Hard, ’62, Professor Emeritus
Recipient: CAPT CHARLES ROGAN, Associate Professor, Marine Transportation Department
USMMA-Kings Point Alma Mater
Oh, Stately, strife born Alma Mater The sound flows softly at thy feet And sunset strikes across its waters As silver notes invoke retreat. Now dim the paths and trees in darkness. The stars above our way appoint. We'll Sleep secure aboard 'til morning. God steer thee well, Kings Point!"
REAR ADMIRAL JOACHIM BUONO, ‘78, USMS Superintendent
REAR ADMIRAL SUSAN DUNLAP, USMS Deputy Superintendent
REAR ADMIRAL JOHN R. BALLARD, Ph.D., USMS Provost
CAPTAIN MIKEL STROUD, USMS Commandant of Midshipmen
LCDR DAVID S. PAHS, CHC, USN Chaplain
MS. LISA JERRY Academy Registrar
MRS. ARDASIA MCKELLER Office of the Academic Dean/Provost Academic Awards Coordinator
MS. LISA DONITZ USMMA Alumni Association and Foundation, Inc. Alumni Awards Coordinator