KINGS POINT, N.Y., August 14, 2015 – On Wednesday, during a lunchtime ceremony Academic Dean, Dr. Shashi N. Kumar, Deputy Superintendent, Rear Adm. Sue Dunlap, USMS, and Director of the Academic Center for Excellence, Lt. Cmdr Paul D. Acquaro, USMS, were joined by United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) and staff to congratulate 231 midshipmen for their outstanding efforts in the classroom and at sea.

Midshipmen were awarded Academic Gold and Silver Stars for Third Term Academic Year 2015. that recognize their accomplishments. A Gold Star signifies QPA of at least 3.50 with no course failures in the term; and a Silver Star signifies a QPA of at least 3.25 up to and including 3.49 with no course failures in the term.

The full list of recipients is available by clicking: 2015 Third Term Academic Stars.

In addition to academic awards, the Head of the Department of Professional Development and Career Services, Capt. Gene Albert, USMS, distributed Sea Year Ribbons to midshipmen who excelled during their Sea Year. The full list of the members of the class of 2016 B split and the Class of 2017 A Split Sea Year Ribbon recipients is accessible by clicking: 2015 Sea Year Ribbons.

“Congratulations to all of the Midshipmen who have achieved these honors,” said Acquaro. “Keep up the good work and continue on your voyage to academic excellence while supporting the other students in our learning community.”