KINGS POINT, N.Y., November 8, 2024 – On October 25, 2024, the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) hosted Polaris 2024, a day dedicated to leadership development, mentorship, and inclusivity. Led by Midshipman (MIDN) Jinae Teria, Regimental Cultural Diversity Officer, the event featured panels, affinity group meetings, and tours, reflecting USMMA’s commitment to fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity in leadership and service.

The day began with a keynote address from Rear Admiral (RDML) Alexis “Lex” T. Walker, Commander of Carrier Strike Group 10 and a respected leader known for his dedication to diversity and inclusive leadership. A native of the Bronx, New York, RDML Walker started his military career through the Broadened Opportunity for Officer Selection and Training (BOOST) Program and has since achieved significant leadership milestones. His career has spanned both sea and shore, including commands of USS Stockdale (DDG 106) and senior positions in Washington, D.C., where he served as Senior Military Assistant to the Secretary of the Navy. RDML Walker’s address reflected on the importance of respecting and valuing diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and skills to foster an inclusive and effective team culture.

After the keynote, MIDN Teria presented RDML Walker with a token of appreciation—a book showcasing iconic images of USMMA’s historic campus. Afterward, attendees participated in panels on leadership in sports, industry, and the military, moderated by members of the Regimental Cultural Diversity Officer’s staff.

RDML Walker then joined the regiment for lunch at Delano Hall, where midshipmen had the opportunity to converse with the Admiral and other guests. In the afternoon, he met with members of USMMA’s affinity clubs—the Cultural Diversity Club, Open Seas, and Kings Point Ladies— highlighting the Academy’s dedication to creating a supportive environment for all.

Visiting cadets from State University Maritime College, U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and U.S. Naval Academy were divided into groups to tour the campus and waterfront. The groups later switched, giving all cadets a chance to experience both tours. They then met with Vice Admiral Joanna M. Nunan, USMMA Superintendent.

Meanwhile, RDML Walker toured affinity displays located on Zero Deck, with Dr. Joshua M. Smith, American Merchant Marine Curator. The afternoon concluded with a tour of the waterfront by MIDN Patrick McCarron, 1/C, and boat ride around Long Island Sound.

The day ended with a formal dinner at Delano Hall, where RDML Walker, visiting cadets, and USMMA leadership reflected on the themes of the event and reaffirmed their commitment to diversity and respectful leadership in their future roles.

Reflecting on the day, Vice Admiral Nunan said, “We are grateful to Rear Admiral Walker for his inspiring message on inclusive leadership. His example reinforces our mission to develop leaders of exemplary character who respect and value diverse perspectives in service to the United States.”

We are grateful to the following Midshipmen, who made the day such a success:

Regimental Cultural Diversity Officer (RCDO)

MIDN Jinae Teria 1/C – Regimental Cultural Diversity Officer

MIDN Charlie Ford 1/C – Battalion Cultural Diversity Officer

MIDN Sophia Minas 1/C – Battalion Cultural Diversity Officer

Cultural Diversity Club (CDC)

MIDN Hannah Barnes, 1/C – President

MIDN Randy Naugaus, 2/C – Treasurer

Plebe Andrew Wells – Member

Plebe Oscar Arroyo – Member

Plebe Yohani Cortes – Member

Plebe Liam Eldon – Member

Open Seas

MIDN Brayden Parsons, 3/C – Presiden

MIDN Jade Winters 3/C, – Vice President

MIDN Shaylin Juhola, 1/C – Member

Plebe Rolls Kerrigan – Member

Plebe Breanna Sommers – Member

Kings Point Ladies (KPL)

MIDN Maeve Jackson, 1/C – Co-President

MIDN Ryleigh Benson, 1/C – Co-President

Campus and Waterfront Tour Guides

MIDN Jasper Schineller, 1/C – Campus Tour Guide

MIDN Patrick McCarron, 1/C – Waterfront Tour Guide

Boat Ride Escorts

MIDN Josh Beavis, 1/C – Escort

MIDN Lucas Sawin, 1/C – Escort

MIDN Cole Williams, 1/C – Escort