KINGS POINT, N.Y., Jan. 26, 2016 – The Academy’s new Commandant, Capt. David Sosa, USMS, emphasized that “people are at the center of everything we do” as he shared his philosophy and way forward with the Regiment of Midshipmen yesterday.

Speaking during the weekly Regimental Training session, Sosa presented his intentions focusing on “what’s important,” our midshipmen, the Academy’s faculty and staff , and families, friends, and Alumni.  He then addressed questions from the midshipmen, staff and faculty who attended in Ackerman Auditorium.

“The Midshipmen are why we are here,” said Sosa.  “It is our job to prepare them for the challenges and opportunities that they will encounter.  We must hold them to standard and support their development.” 

The Commandant noted that his staff are “focused professionals committed to the development and growth of the midshipmen.  We will lead, guide, mentor, assess, and advise the midshipmen while also providing exceptional support services.”  Regarding the faculty and staff, Sosa said “we will work seamlessly with other departments, faculty, and staff to deliver a comprehensive leadership, academic, physical, and technical experience.”

Noting the importance of support from outside the Academy, Sosa added “our outreach extends beyond the Midshipmen and includes family, friends, and Alumni who share our objective of developing the Midshipmen to their full potential.”

“Capt. Sosa’s philosophy and guidance emphasize an approach to leadership that encourages personal involvement, initiative, and accountability,” said Superintendent, Rear Adm. James A. Helis, USMS.  “Kings Point graduates serve the Nation in many different roles, all of which require engaged leadership.  Capt. Sosa’s approach to leadership development will enhance an already outstanding program and ensure that Kings Point continues to produce leaders of exemplary character who will serve America’s marine transportation and defense needs in peace and war.”

The key elements of approach that Sosa elaborated are:

• Accomplish the Mission
• Be an Engaged Leader
• Professionalism in Everything We Do
• Foster Mental & Physical Toughness
• Be Proactive
• Communicate for Positive Influence
• Seek Balance
• Be Just, Be Fair, Be Accountable
• Have Faith in Yourself and in Each Other
• Be Compassionate

Sosa also tacked the challenges of “actions that hurt us” discussing the need to take action against (1) assaults on personal dignity, such as hazing, sexual assault, or mistreating those we should protect, (2) assaults on integrity, such as lying, cheating, or stealing, and (3) assaults on leadership, such as failing to hold ourselves and others accountable.

To move forward together, the Commandant requested the assistance of the midshipmen, staff and faculty to (1) emphasize our roles as leaders, (2) emphasize the importance of character, (3) increase our focus on customs and courtesies, (4) publically recognize the accomplishments of others, (5) strive for fair and consistent application of discipline, and (6) emphasize personal accountability.

The Commandant took questions from the midshipmen, and then remained after his presentation to further speak with midshipmen.

“Capt. Sosa was very responsive and interested in what the midshipmen had to say,” said Midshipman 1st Class Megan Foran. “As part of the command staff, I very much look forward to working with him during the next several months.”

Midshipman 1st Class Wyatt C. Thornton noted, “Capt. Sosa was engaging, and seems to be very willing to work with midshipmen, as he provided direct and thoughtful answers to any of the questions that were asked by midshipmen. I also believe that he has made the objectives he is trying to accomplish very clear and simple.” Similarly, Midshipman 1st Michael Babowice noted, “I believe that the Commandant has taken a positive step in the development of Midshipmen at the Academy.”

Looking to the future, Midshipman 1st Class Emily Bull said, “I am hopeful that Capt. Sosa will move the school in a positive direction.”

By Cmdr. Benjamin Benson, USMS