USMMA Faculty and Staff Achievements Recognized in MARAD’s Annual Awards Ceremony
KINGS POINT, N.Y., Dec. 14, 2023 – Twenty-six members of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy’s faculty and staff were recognized for their achievements during the Maritime Administration (MARAD) 54th Annual Awards and Recognition Ceremony
On Thursday, December 7th, Rear Admiral Ann Phillips, USN (Ret.), Maritime Administrator, presented the awards at a ceremony in Washington D.C., to Captain James Zatwarnicki, Acting Provost, who accepted awards on behalf of USMMA faculty and staff participating remotely from Kings Point.
One member of the USMMA staff was awarded a Bronze Medal, the highest award the Maritime Administration may independently give. It is granted by the Maritime Administrator in recognition of extremely competent performance of official duties.
- Ms. Melinda Simmons-Healy
“For exemplary service in coordinating the day-today operations of the Superintendent while serving as the Acting Chief of Staff at USMMA.
Three teams received 2023 Maritime Administration Team Awards, which were presented in recognition of contributions made by groups of employees who have exceeded job requirements. It is awarded by the Maritime Administrator in recognition of outstanding performance.
The Bronze Medal Team Award went to the USMMA Intercollegiate Sailing Association National Championship Team:
“For superior achievement in hosting the Sailing National Championship composed of 88 teams from 20 intuitions of higher education.”
- Richard Cain
- Scott McCormick
- Robert Asma
- John Casey
- Richard Dominique
- Robert Gorgy
- Mary Hall
- Brendan Feeney
- Ken Luczynski
- Derek Hartwick
- George Link
- Derek Schubert
- Harris Papson
The EEO Team Award went to the “I Am a Jew” Team:
“For superior effort, teamwork and achievement in the advancement in diversity and inclusiveness a USMMA, while broadening cultural awareness among faculty, staff, and students.”
- Joshua Smith
- Michael Melcer
- Abigail Thomas
- Jane Brickman
- Clayton Harper
- Veronica Barry
The MARAD Team Award went to “OUR Academy” Team:
“For superior effort, teamwork and achievement in the development of “OUR Academy Campain on-campus for highlighting Opportunity, Unity and Resiliency.”
- Kristofer Schnatz
- Jameson Croall
- Alexa Shields
- Rob Pryor
- Kyle Simensky
The Maritime Administration’s Employee of the Quarter went to:
- Veronica Barry
“For exceptional effort in covering the External Affairs Office, due to a staffing shortage, for an extended period of time. Her contributions to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging have been extremely commendable.
USMMA Superintendent, Rear Adm. Joanna M. Nunan, USMS, said, “I join Admiral Phillips in congratulating our faculty and staff. Their dedicated service goes far beyond USMMA, and the work they do serves all of the American people.”
Last updated: Thursday, December 14, 2023