KINGS POINT, N.Y., July 27, 2023 - Yesterday, the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) faculty, staff and Regiment of Midshipmen came together at the annual Academic Convocation to celebrate the beginning of the 2023-2024 Academic Year. The Academic Convocation is one of USMMA’s greatest traditions. It promotes an atmosphere of academic excellence and sets the tone for a productive academic year.

The master of ceremonies, Mr. Kristopher Schnatz, called the audience to attention for the arrival of the faculty, superintendent, acting academic dean, department heads and senior administrative staff, who processed into Ackerman Auditorium led by the senior-ranking faculty member, Dr. Gabe Colef, carrying the Academic Mace. Once the official party was situated, Dr. Colef announced, “The 29th Academic Convocation of the United States Merchant Marine Academy is now convened.” Then Mr. Schnatz introduced the Acting Academic Dean, Captain James Zatwarnicki, Jr.

Capt. Zatwarnicki welcomed the assembly and shared key academic success data. He encouraged the Regiment of Midshipmen to excel in academics and take responsibility for reaching out to the faculty and staff for academic support. He underscored that “we are here to support you” and said that “a new year comes with new challenges, but KP thrives on challenges. Challenges build grit and resiliency, and resiliency is part of what defines us. It is a core value of our Academy.”

After introducing academic leadership and thanking them for their dedicated service to the Academy, he introduced Vice Admiral Joanna M. Nunan Superintendent, who addressed the entire Academy community. “Today, at the United States Merchant Marine Academy’s 29th Academic Convocation, we rededicate ourselves to the noble arts of learning and teaching, our campus-wide fellowship, and the discovery and fulfillment of those selves we all know are within us.”

Vice Adm. Nunan was followed by the Regimental Commander, First Class Midshipman Captain Katie McGillicuddy, who delivered a motivational speech directed toward the Regiment of Midshipmen. She said, “We are not another four-year undergraduate program, we are not another service academy, and we are certainly not another maritime academy. What separates us from these programs are the skills we develop handling the obstacles thrown our way, and the bonds we create when we face these challenges together. Whether you’re a plebe straight out of indoctrination, or a first classman on the five-year plan, we are all now part of the Kings Point family.”

Finally, the ceremony concluded with the Benediction and singing of the Alma Mater.