KINGS POINT, N.Y., February 11, 2014 - Deputy Superintendent Rear Admiral Susan Dunlap and Assistant Academic Dean Commander Preston DeJean were joined by USMMA faculty and staff to congratulate 212 midshipmen for their outstanding efforts in the classroom and at sea. The event was marked by the distribution of Academic Gold and Silver Stars for Term 1 Academic Year 2014.

"Congratulations to all Gold and Silver Star recipients,” said Dr. Shashi N. Kumar, PhD, Academic Dean.  “Their ability to maintain superior academic performance given their daily hectic schedule is particularly commendable."

Midshipmen were awarded Academic Stars on the following basis: Gold Star: a QPA of at least 3.50 with no course failures in the term; and Silver Star: 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 accessible by clicking: Academic Stars.

In addition to academic awards, Captain Gene Albert, Head of the Department of Professional Development and Career Services distributed Sea Year Ribbons to midshipmen who excelled during their Sea Year.  CAPT Albert said, “It is my belief that a Sea Year Ribbon is one of the more difficult academic awards to earn as it requires excellence in sea projects and superior evaluations by ships officers.”  The full list Sea Year Ribbon recipients is accessible by clicking : Sea Year Ribbons.

Lieutenant Commander Paul D. Acquaro, USMS, Director of the Academic Center for Excellence also congratulated the midshipmen who received honors. He said, “Your efforts exemplify the strategic vision of our community ‘working together to create a dynamic and collegial learning environment.’ Keep up the good work and continue on your voyage to excellence.”