A forAgeModernShipthe SUMMER 2022THE MAGAZINE OF CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY MARITIME ACADEMY RESTRICTEDTOSHIP LessonsLockdownfrom OUTWARDBOUND Meet Our First Class OceanographyofGraduates Reflections on the journey to our next training ship
SUMMER 2022 CAL MARITIME IS PUBLISHED BY THE CALIFORNIA MARITIME ACADEMY FOUNDATION, INC. IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE OFFICE OF UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT FOR ALUMNI, PARENTS, AND FRIENDS OF CAL MARITIME. TO CHANGE OR DISCONTINUE MAILINGS FROM CAL MARITIME CALL US AT 707-654-1246. THOMAS A. CROPPER PRESIDENT RICHARD P. ORTEGA VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CMA FOUNDATION AZIZA JACKSON DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS EDITOR BROOKE KING DESIGN AARON DROWN DESIGN CALIFORNIA MARITIME ACADEMY FOUNDATION, INC. 200 MARITIME ACADEMY DRIVE VALLEJO, CA 94590-8181 PRINTED ON 10% POST-CONSUMER RECYCLED PAPER WITH SOY-BASED INK. /CSUMARITIMEACADEMY/CALMARITIMEALUMNI/CALMARITIMEFAMILIES@CAL_MARITIME@CALMARITIMEALUM@GOKEELHAULERS@CALMARITIME/CALMARITIMEVIDEOS/CALMARITIME CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY MARITIME ACADEMY'S MISSION IS TO PROVIDE EACH STUDENT WITH A COLLEGE EDUCATION COMBINING INTELLECTUAL LEARNING, APPLIED TECHNOLOGY, LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT, AND GLOBAL AWARENESS; PROVIDE THE HIGHEST QUALITY LICENSED OFFICERS AND OTHER PERSONNEL FOR THE MERCHANT MARINE AND NATIONAL MARITIME INDUSTRIES; PROVIDE CONTINUING EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES FOR THOSE IN THE TRANSPORTATION AND RELATED INDUSTRIES; BE AN INFORMATION AND TECHNOLOGY RESOURCE CENTER FOR THE TRANSPORTATION AND RELATED INDUSTRIES. CADET SOPHIE SCOPAZZI ABOARD THE FAST RESCUE DURING CRUISE 2022. SEE MORE HIGHLIGHTS ON PAGE 18. CONTRIBUTORS KATHY ARNOLD ERIC ANDREWBANKSTONFAUGHTSARAHKIDWELLBROOKEKINGADAMROSEN PHOTOGRAPHY RIZAL ALIGA ERIC BANKSTON AMBRIA GEE ’26 GSMA DANIEL GOLINSKI ’26 MET SARAH KIDWELL SOPHIE SCOPAZZI ’23 MT SHANNON STEL ’22 NIKI HELLEY WARD COVER ILLUSTRATION BY FEDERICO GASTALDI
A Ship for the Modern Age 18 Cal Maritime looks ahead to the next training ship. Read about the journey of persistence and collaboration that will help Cal Maritime cadets become the next generation of mariners. Restricted to Ship 26 Madeline Wolczko ’15, Second Mate of the cargo ship President Wilson turned challenging circum stances into an enlightening—and entertaining— look into the realities of the maritime industry during COVID-19. Outward Bound 6 Meet Cal Maritime’s first Oceanography graduates— a small but mighty cohort. On Morrow Cove 4 We bring you a roundup of campus news, from the launch of a new graduate certificate program to safety updates aboard the Training Ship Golden Bear Athletics 28 Cadet-athletes and Athletics staff are at the top of their game. Q&A 24 Natalie Herring named Director of Admissions and Assistant Vice President for Enrollment ManagementInDepartmentsEveryIssue ON THE COVER FROM ONE GOLDEN BEAR TO ILLUSTRATIONFEDERICOANOTHER.GASTALDI’SSHOWS OUR CURRENT TRAINING SHIP RIDING THE WAVES AS OUR NEXT TRAINING SHIP IS REFLECTED BENEATH. THE STAGE IS SET FOR CAL MARITIME’S CLASS OF 2022. READ ABOUT THE CELEBRATIONS ON PAGE 4. THE NEW FACE OF MAYO HALL CONTINUES TO TAKE SHAPE. SEE MORE (AND TAKE A PEEK INTO THE PAST) ON PAGES 15 & 17.From the Archives 2 From the President 3 Class Notes 36 Crossed the Final Bar 38 Table of Contents
Find
Hidden Histories Online Exhibit. 2 SUMMER 2022 Cal Maritime | WWW.CSUM.EDU
From the Archives
The TS Golden Bear at port in Oakland, CA during a “Milk Run” relief mission following World War II. out more by visiting the CSUM Library’s
is Bright PRESIDENT CROPPER AND OLIVIA MUÑOZ OCEANOGRAPHY ’22 AT THE LAND BLESSING AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT APRIL 6, 2022. WWW.CSUM.EDU | Cal Maritime SUMMER 2022 3
you will read how Cal Maritime cadets and faculty are creating the future, using their intellect and influence to forge new paths and create a better world. Their participation in Model United Nations, a campus forum discussing the war in Ukraine, and the publication of research on ways to curb port pollution all serve as examples of how Cal Maritime cadets and faculty are aware, engaged, and hope ful. Together, they are actively working to make not just a better future, but one that is bright. I’m not surprised. There are a thousand points of light headed to our academy cam pus this fall, and I eagerly await their arrival and the amazing things they will do! Future
Finally,ahead.
The
From the President
current renovation has also given us an opportunity to look back in time and bring our campus history to life. This year, we celebrated our first CommUNITY Day on cam pus, a time to engage with the broader campus family, reflect on our similarities and differ ences, and commit to building a stronger community. We also celebrated the opening of our Inclusion Center, a physical space for cadets to find con nections with one another. It serves as a space to listen and learn, and to cultivate respect and a sense of belonging for everyone who wants to be a Keelhauler. We look forward to more CommUNITY Days
Cal heldMaritimeajoyous Commencement92ndthis spring. As we celebrate such special occasions, we see that our traditions are grounded in those who came before us, and yet, that things are ever-changing. The individuals we celebrated at this year’s Commencement are entering a very different world from that of previous graduates, one that today’s graduates will influ ence and change with their own ideas, experiences, and perspectives. Change offers an opportunity to lead, and our Cal Maritime community is well-prepared and strongly committed to meeting that opportunity. Our graduates lead with incredible resilience, creativity, and dedi cation, as you will read in these pages. Cal Maritime cadets lead through scholarship, athletic pursuits, and service to our community—on campus and beyond. Cal Maritime pro vides a deliberately develop mental environment for faculty, staff and alumni to lead with expertise, global perspectives, and an unmatched commit ment to excellence. In this magazine, we share stories of how we honor our past, acknowledging those to whom the land our campus now calls home belonged. We also recognize the importance of our country’s symbols and what they represent about our collective journey as a nation. The recent discovery of a time capsule in Mayo Hall during its
NEWLY-COMMISSIONED
On CoveMorrow
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OFFICERS DURING CAL MARITIME’S 92ND COMMENCEMENT, HELD MAY 7, 2022. 4 SUMMER 2022 Cal Maritime | WWW.CSUM.EDU
O n a sunny, breezy day in the presence of faculty, family and friends, local officials, and a Cal State trustee, President Tom Cropper lauded new graduates of California State University Maritime Academy for their achievements at Cal Maritime’s 92nd Commencement, held Saturday, May 7 on Bodnar Field. As the Class of 2022 studied for three of their four college years under global pandemic conditions Cropper noted that they have “demonstrated dedication, honor, integrity, respect, responsibility and trust. They now have a distinction,” he continued, “one that will carry into their bright futures, as the alumni who were molded by an acute necessity and a sheer willpower to prevail.”
Cropper conferred diplomas upon 178 undergraduate cadets and 20 master’s degree students. Thirty-one undergraduates received 3rd Mate or Assistant US Coast Guard Oceanographylicenses.majorOlivia Muñoz was chosen by her undergraduate class mates to represent them with a commencement address. She is in the first cohort of Oceanography students to earn a degree since the major was launched two years ago. Of Native American descent, she offered an Iroquois greeting and acknowledged the conversations around culture, some challeng ing, which have occurred during the academic year, and the changes that have occurred as a result. “This small, unique campus allowed us to explore these ideas and implement changes. We did that! We did that together and began working through some very tough topics.” Alicia Winterbottom gave the graduate student address, representing those who received a Master of Science in Transportation and Engineering Management (MSTEM) at the ceremony. She is a member of the MSTEM Class of 2020, whose graduate school journey was interrupted by the pandemic. She is also a member of the undergraduate class of ’08. KENDALL G. BRIDGEWATER, COMMANDER, MILITARY SEALIFT PACIFIC, ADDRESSES NAVAL
CAPT.
GRADUATES RECEIVING THEIR MASTER OF SCIENCE IN TRANSPORTATION AND ENGINEERING MANAGEMENT DEGREE AT CAL MARITIME WEAR BLACK CAP AND GOWNS.
Dedicated public servant Major General Barrye Price (Ret.), who currently serves as the President and CEO of the Community Anti-Drug Coalition of America delivered the commencement address. He urged the graduates to share their time, talent, and treasure with their alma mater and reach back to the institution that has given them so much. “Know that you are no longer who you were prior to graduation…you had a transformative experience, so be transformed by it.”
Kendall G. Bridgewater, Commander, Military Sealift Command Pacific, adminis tered the oath. Both ceremonies were livestreamed, enabling friends and family to watch from around the world and send congratulations and cheers from afar in a live chat.
COMMENCEMENT.OFTOGAVEARMYBARRYEMAJORCLASS.GRADUATINGSPEECHGSMA,ALICIACOMMANDERCORPSPORTERGIVESTOTHEGENERALPRICE,US.RETIRED,ASPEECHTHECLASS2022DURING
FAMILY CAME OUT ON A BEAUTIFUL MAY DAY TO SUPPORT THEIR CADET’S GRADUATION
CSU TRUSTEE DR. ROMEY GRADUATES.ADDRESSESSABALIUSTHE WWW.CSUM.EDU | Cal Maritime SUMMER 2022 5 On Morrow Cove
Just prior to the ceremony and in a separate celebration, 12 Strategic Sealift Midshipmen were commissioned as Ensigns into the U.S. Naval Reserve. Capt.
A land acknowledgement began the ceremony, honoring the indigenous fore bears who once resided where the Cal Maritime campus now sits.
“I earned my master’s degree while working full time, married to a merchant mariner who is gone half the time, pregnant, and mother to a toddler.” She learned, she said, the important lesson of time management and encouraged fellow grads to acknowledge and celebrate their achievements and unusual journey in an uncertain world.
NEW
The only disappointment Professor Alex Parker felt on commencement day this year was that it was too windy to carry the degree program flags in the academic procession. It was the first time the academic program he leads—Oceanography—would be pro cessing in a Cal Maritime commence ment. Launched just two years ago, the Oceanography major graduated its first cohort this year, a small but mighty group of three cadets. Fortunately, the new flag was displayed on the com mencement platform, having been com pleted just days before the ceremony. “It was a terrific feeling after so much planning. We are incredibly proud of the work by these students,” Parker says. “Already, our students are taking advantage of our campus waterfront to participate in hands-on oceanography in their classes and research working with our faculty. This spring, we had students out weekly conducting hydro graphic surveys of San Pablo Bay and the Napa River. Next year, we will have oceanography cadets learning small boat safety and operations, so we are building our capabilities.” The major was launched just after the pandemic hit, with the first year of classes completely online. Yet the three graduates were undeterred. One, Olivia Muñoz, was the com mencement speaker for her class. A second, Seamus Jameson, earned his degree at age 54. And the third, Justin Pham, showed his enthusiasm for his achievement by facing the commence ment audience with his hands raised triumphantly in the air. Parker is optimistic about the future of the program. “As we continue to grow, there are terrific opportunities for us to continue taking advantage of both Cal Maritime’s location and its unique place in higher education.”
Well-attended, informative, and enlightening, the session was moderated by Associate Professor Dr. Dianne Meredith, and featured perspectives from department chair Dr. Malaquias, Professor Dr. Chris Chiego, Associate Professor Dr. Ryan Wade, and Assistant Professor Dr. Amy Skoll. The standing-room-only event included informative presentations and ended with a lively question and answer segment.
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Ukraine Discussion
In early March, the world gripped by the news of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Dr. Assis Malaquias gath ered members of Cal Maritime’s Global Studies and Maritime Affairs (GSMA) Department and hosted a forum on the crisis.
Oceanography Major Graduates First Cohort
PROFESSOR ALEX PARKER STANDS WITH THE FIRST THREE GRADUATES OF THE OCEANOGRAPHY PROGRAM, OLIVIA MUÑOZ OCEANOGRAPHY ’22, SEAMUS JAMESON OCEANOGRAPHY ’22, AND JUSTIN PHAM OCEANOGRAPHY ’22.
THE UKRAINE PANEL INCLUDED GLOBAL STUDIES AND MARITIME AFFAIRS PROFESSORS INCLUDING DR. RYAN WADE, DR. ASSIS MALAQUIAS, DR. CHRISTOPHER CHIEGO, DR. DIANNE MEREDITH, AND DR. AMY SKOLL.
Port operators around the globe have come to a consensus: it’s time to cut emissions that contribute to a warming planet. But they’ve been bedeviled by the same question. How do we get there?
PortAddressingPollution
“Our goal was to give people some ideas,” Densberger says. “I definitely see this as work that others can build on, taking our points and really expanding on them.”
Government leaders in both cities have expressed support for transforming the sites into zero-emission facilities by 2035, but they have so far fallen short of early goals, according to regula tors. Port leaders were the first in the United States to start talking about zero-emissions equipment, Densberger says. Such equipment would include yard trucks and cranes run by bat teries or fuel cells, she adds.
Port pollution has become more pronounced during the pan demic, due to supply chain disruptions and a logjam of container ships waiting offshore to dock. In November, fine-particle pollution in downtown Los Angeles was 40 percent higher than in recent years, according to the South Coast Air Quality Management District. Such pollution originates from diesel emissions from the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, two of the largest sources of smog-creating pollution.
A new research paper by a Cal Maritime graduate and her former professor suggests a blueprint for moving forward. The authors urge stakeholders, including government leaders, labor unions and shipping companies, to rally around a six-point plan that, in part, calls for stronger collaboration and enhanced work force training. While such an approach may seem obvious, it’s not so easily put into “Whenpractice.itcomes to ports, there’s this huge disconnect—nobody’s talking,” says report co-author Nicole Light Densberger, MS TEM ’21, an air pollution specialist at the California Air Resources Board. “On the other side, you have state agencies pushing goals, but they’re not talking to other state agencies that are in charge of the infrastructure. There are a lot of disconnected islands, and not enough collaboration.”
on port pollution recognize the impact diesel inter modal trains and trucks have on air quality, as they are considered
the major emitters of greenhouse gas emissions,” Bachkar says. “Indeed, the impact of diesel emissions on the health of those living in port communities, coupled with a global call for green house gas emissions reduction, has finally torn back the curtain on the maritime transportation sector to significantly reduce its Theemissions.”research prescribes four other routes to combat port pol lution: developing statewide regulations; accelerating the com mercialization of cleaner technologies (such as battery-powered equipment); improving funding processes to meet emission benchmarks; and increasing “resiliency planning,” which could include setting up a battery infrastructure in the event of power grid failures.
The paper—“Towards Accelerating the Adoption of Zero Emissions Cargo Handling Technologies in California Ports: Lessons learned from the case of the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach,” Journal of Cleaner Production (2022)—was co-authored by Khalid Bachkar, professor of international business and “Researcherslogistics.
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O n March 26, 280 celebrants gathered aboard the San Francisco Belle for a Fantastic Voyage, the 17th Annual Scholarship and Awards Gala. An evening of fun and fundraising, the focus of the Gala is to recognize Cal Maritime alums and indus try partners and raise money for cadet scholarships, though this year there was a general exuberance about gathering in person after two years of virtual auctions due to the pandemic. When the bidding ended and the numbers were tallied, $185,000 was raised for merit scholarships, athletic scholarships, and general scholarships for academic year 2022/2023. MANY CADETS VOLUNTEERED AT THE 2022INDUSTRYGALA. PARTNER THE PASHA GROUP FIVE CADETS SCHOLARSHIPS.TOATVOLUNTEEREDWHOTHE2022GALAFUNDRAISEFOR 8 SUMMER 2022 Cal Maritime | WWW.CSUM.EDU On Morrow Cove
The following companies and individuals were honored for their extraordinary contribu tions to Cal Maritime: Anne L. ’13 A.
“I’m so grateful to thank the California Maritime Academy Foundation’s External Affairs committee members and its chair Gladys Brown ’01 and the staff from University Advancement for their efforts in ensuring the successful return of the Gala,” said VP of Advancement Richard Ortega. “I also appreciate Kim Estes ’78 ably serv ing as Master of Ceremonies again, leaving his indelible mark on the event. Our cadets benefit each year from the generosity of all involved.”
Lifetime Achievement Captain
McIntyre ’88,
The atmosphere was fes tive, with an online auction of goods and services wrapping up just as the event started and a live auction that featured cadets racing between tables to identify bidders.
Distinguished Alumni Thomas
Jacobsen ’88 Rising Star Russell H. Shrewsbury ’06 Lighthouse Service Douglas E. Holm Industry Partner The Pasha Group 17TH ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIPAND AWARDS GALA MARCH 26, 2022ABOARD THE DOCKED SAN FRANCISCO BELLEPIER 3, HORNBLOWER LANDING, SAN FRANCISCO THE CALIFORNIA MARITIME ACADEMYFOUNDATION PRESENTS JOIN US IN HONORINGTHIS YEAR’S ALUMNI AND INDUSTRY AWARD RECIPIENTS ENJOY AUCTIONS, LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND DANCINGWHILE SUPPORTING SCHOLARSHIPSFOR CAL MARITIME CADETS KIM ESTES ’78, GALA MASTER OF CEREMONIES DOUGLAS DISTINGUISHEDTOMLIGHTHOUSEHOLM,SERVICEJACOBSEN’88,ALUMNI RUSSELL SHREWSBURY ’06, RISING STAR CAPTAIN ANNE MCINTYRE ’88, ’13, LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT WWW.CSUM.EDU | Cal Maritime SUMMER 2022 9
“Kyle has been a superb campus leader and holds the highest level of trust among the campus,” Cropper told the Vallejo Times Herald. “He represents the very best of our great Corps of Cadets.”
The 48-star banner previously flew aboard the USS LCS-102, one of 130 landing craft support ships rushed into production to provide close-in fire support to American forces fighting in the Pacific Theater during World War II. The LCS-102, now a floating museum, is the last surviving boat of its kind.
The flag had been stored untouched in a seaman’s service bag until 2007, when the sailor’s grandson brought it to the attention of Christopher Lehman, a former assistant to President Reagan. The flag had been tucked away for so long because the now-deceased sailor wrote the names of all of the boat’s ports on the white stripes. Because defacing the American flag is a felony, the veteran was worried about criminal reprisals, according to his grandson. Lehman assured him that the statute of limitations had expired.
The flag had been part of a display at the former Mare Island Shipyard. Curators at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, CA, were
assembling a new exhibition, “Secrets of World War II” and hoped to include the flag. While there were several volunteers willing to transport the flag, Cal Maritime President Tom Cropper knew how he’d Enterproceed.
KYLE YAMAMOTO GSMA ‘22 STANDS NEXT TO THE HISTORIC FLAG HE DELIVERED TO THE RONALD REAGAN LIBRARY FOR A SPECIAL EXHIBITION THIS SPRING. A HISTORY BUFF, YAMAMOTO, WAS WELL ACQUAINTED WITH STORY OF THE FLAG, WHICH WAS ORIGINALLY ABOARD THE USS LCS-102 DURING WORLD WAR II.
Kyle Yamamoto GSMA ’22, of Hacienda Heights, CA. A call from Cropper sounded an urgent plea to the public service-minded cadet. Could Yamamoto deliver the flag?
The flag had flown 82 days atop the craft during the bloody Battle of Okinawa. Eventually replaced by a new flag, the old standard seemed lost to history, and to the collective memory. Until seventy-seven years later.
For Yamamoto, there was never any doubt he’d make the nearly 400-mile journey south, in time for the exhibit’s opening on April 2. But there was one technical challenge: the 5-foot-by-5-foot frame holding the flag was too big to fit inside Yamamoto’s Honda Accord. He rented an SUV and delivered the flag in time. He was greeted at the library by Lehman, and the pair spent the day together talking about the exhibit.
THE FLAG HE CARRIED
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For the smoke-stained and tattered American flag, there would be one more mission.
“I’ve always been a history buff, especially about thosethecanYamamoto.topics,”lesser-knownsays“Youjustimaginegunsgoing off all at once as Marines are simul taneously assault ing the studies,inasideringYamamotobeach.”isconpursuingmaster’sdegreenationalsecuritywhichhe says best reflects his skill set: “I’ve always liked the idea of being able to help people.”
On April 6, 2022, Cal Maritime wel comed members of the local commu nity and Tribes for a land blessing and Weacknowledgement.acknowledgethat we gather on the traditional land of the indigenous peo ple, past and present. For thousands of years, this land has been the home of Patwin people. Today, there are three federally recognized Patwin tribes: Cachil DeHe Band of Wintun Indians of the Colusa Indian Community, Kletsel Dehe Wintun Nation, and Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation. The Patwin people have remained committed to the stewardship of this land over many centuries. It has been cherished and protected, as elders have instructed the young through generations. We are honored and grateful to be here today on their traditional LandOnlands.This OLIVIA MUÑOZ OCEANOGRAPHY ’22 VALLEJO MAYOR ROBERT MCCONNELL, COMMUNITY PHOTOGRAPHER BILL YUEN, AND CHAIRMAN ANTHONY ROBERTS OF THE YOCHA DEHE WINTUN LISA HAMNER, ROXANNE MINA, ARIANNA LEBEAU, PRESIDENT CROPPER, OLIVIA MUÑOZ, CHAIRMAN ANTHONY ROBERTS, KYLE YAMAMOTO, MARK WHEATON, AND BEN VOTH
NATION
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panions to help deter pests and attract beneficial pollinators for the veggies. When the pandemic hit and Supakit wasn’t on campus, she turned her duties over to her friend Evita Adriano ’23, who was on campus, advising her from afar. More helpers, like Romy Subaba from Facilities, have been instrumental in the maintenance and growth of the garden. Subaba is credited with saving the wood from the former Maritime walkway and assisting cadets in repurpos ing it to create the new raised garden beds. All of this led to a great celebra tion held in May to honor the contributions of all those who have pitched in over the years, including Supakit’s, as she was gradu ating. None will be forgotten says Myslik, but Supakit’s legacy was significant, so a sign honoring her commitment and green thumb now stands next to the“Thegarden.Campus-Community Garden has created a mutually beneficial partner ship between the cadets and the community, resulting in a relaxing and beautiful addition to campus where cadets’ comradery shines as they work and learn together.”
A variety of vegetables has been grown, everything from beets to zucchini, tomatoes and Swiss Chard, even herbs like rosemary and sage. Tiara added a vast array of succulents, as well as beautiful flowers, which act as com
The story of Cal Maritime’s colorful and abundant gardens began in 2014. As Community Engagement Specialist JoEllen Myslik tells it, a $5000 grant from the City of Vallejo was originally going to fund a garden on the hill overlooking the Boat Basin, but obstacles such as a lack of water, a windy environment, and a steep staircase made the location challenging. So, the concept was transplanted to a new location just below the Physical Education and Athletic Center (PEAC) and in 2015, a community garden came to life as a community service project during orientation that fall. Volunteers cleared the area and installed raised beds.
“We have had community members help us with the creation and upkeep, and overall, it has been a nice addition to campus, with the majority of all the harvests donated to local charitable organizations, like Faith Food Fridays and the Christian Help Center,” says Myslik. “It was very important to me from the beginning that the funds to start the garden came from the community, so it is our duty to give back to the community.” In the years that followed some key people kept the effort—and the gar den—alive, says Myslik. Eric Zarza, from Facilities, magically appeared to share his compost and expertise in gardening and helped guide the process. In 2017, then- first-year cadet Tiara Supakit ’22 started a garden club and increased campus enthusiasm around gardening. She was eventually hired as its manager.
If You Plant It
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It takes a village, some say; in this case, the villagers were all gardeners.
“The cadets fully embraced the challenge and competed at the highest level,” said Chiego. “They learned an enormous amount of material in a short period of time and did all of that on top of their regular schoolwork and activities. I look forward to more MUN conferences and welcome any cadets interested in a hands-on experience with international politics and negotiations.” Future plans include additional conferences each year and poten tially hosting a conference at Cal Maritime.
MEMBERS
Junior Michael Guerra, a double major in Global and Maritime Studies and Business Administration, called it a highlight of his college career so far. “It was amazing to engage with such enthu siastic people from all over the country who were so creative with how they tackled the issues,” he shared. “Through my simula tion, I helped draft a new Mexican Constitution in the midst of the Mexican Revolution while also defending against a rival faction.”
in Top SchoolsPublic REGIONALCOLLEGES(WEST) UndergraduateBestEngineering DOCTORATE)(NO inCollegesRegional (WEST) #1 #3 #39 Here’s a summary of Cal Maritime’s 2022 standing in the U.S. News survey: WWW.CSUM.EDU | Cal Maritime SUMMER 2022 13 On Morrow Cove
In early March, members of the Model UN (MUN) team ( Michael Guerra ’23, Professor Chris Chiego, JR Hickam ’23, Travis Liberman ’23, Jillian Zahniser ’23, Lina Green ’24, William Yates ’22, Stacey Kasai ’24, Shannon Stel ’22 pictured above, left to right) competed in a variety of committees covering topics from the Three Kingdoms Period in China to the Mexican Revolution to the modern-day impact of the digital world.
Travis Liberman, also a junior and GSMA major, found it just as memorable. “It was an excellent opportunity to meet like-minded students interested in International Relations from top universities around the United States and—even the world! I highly recom mend MUN to anyone interested in improving leadership skills, public speaking techniques, and problem-solving skills,” he said.
In addition to being ranked #1 among western public colleges again this year, Cal Maritime earned the #3 spot for regional colleges in the west, and the #39 spot for best undergraduate engineering degree among non-doctorate-earning institutions. The engineering degree ranking reflects an improved standing over last year’s survey, when Cal Maritime’s program was ranked #46.
While the conflict in Ukraine dominated the news, these cadets discussed current events as they reached back into history and researched, wrote position papers, devised elaborate behind-thescenes plans, and defended their ideas alongside delegates from over two dozen other schools.
MODELING SUCCESS OF THE CAL MARITIME MODEL UN TEAM.
“The steadiness with which Cal Maritime is rated near the top in U.S. News’ annual survey is quite gratify ing, especially to the dedicated faculty who deliver our remarkable programs,” said Provost and VP of Academic Affairs Lori Schroeder. “Even as we strive each year to build on past success, this news is valida tion that our commitment to developing our cadets for lives of relevance and purpose is well placed.”
CaliforniaStateUniversityMaritimeAcademyearnedmultipleaccoladesin
U.S. News and World Report’s 2022 Best Colleges maintainingsurvey,itstop spot in the ranking of public colleges in the west ern region, according to the annual publication.
Now in its 37th year, the U.S. News rankings evaluate colleges and universities on 17 measures of academic quality, including retention and graduation rates, class size, the strength of the faculty, per-student spending, peer universities’ assessments, and the average federal loan debt of graduates.
Professor Chris Chiego is the Model UN team’s advisor, and hopes the experience will generate more interest in the club.
“The Inclusion Center is for everyone who feels underrepresented, overlooked or is simply looking for new friends,” he said. His thoughts were echoed by Leah Wyzykowski ’23 MT, who also spoke at the “Beingceremony.ableto gather with people who have similar life experience and similar mindsets is really, really important on this campus. It will really help show you that you’re not alone.” Garcia underscored the true mission of the center—inclusivity.
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WALK THIS WAY
Located in Room 115 of the Physical Education and Athletic Center (PEAC) with a designated outdoor entrance, the Inclusion Center is intended to be a place for education and support, club meetings and social gatherings.
Inclusion Center: Open to All
EVERYONE HAS A PLACE AT THE INCLUSION CENTER, NOW OPEN IN ROOM 115 OF THE PEAC Maritime
“This truly is meant to be a space for connectedness and belonging for all members of our community,” said King Xiong, Coordinator of the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP). “I think it’s important for us to understand why this place now exists,” he added. “It’s because in the past we have had cadets from underrepresented groups who feel invisible, silent and marginalized.” Xiong explained that campus partners worked together over several months to design and create a specific locale that would be both safe and welcoming.
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Cal Maritime celebrated the grand opening of its first-ever Inclusion Center with a ribbon cutting and gathering aimed at explaining its mission and thanking those who helped bring the center into being.
Cal Maritime celebrated another milestone in an overarching goal of beautifying and improving campus safety with a ribboncutting ceremony for the newly reconstructed pathway between upper and lower campus along Maritime Academy Drive. The new walkway replaces the aging elevated walk way, providing an easily navigable stamped concrete path with abundant landscaping, new lighting, and bench waystations.
Cadet Liam Garcia ’22 GSMA, along with many others, helped bring the Center from the idea stage last fall to fruition. He noted that when he initially arrived at Cal Maritime he felt as if he had a hard time fitting in and wanted to be sure that those who followed did not have a similar experience.
“I cannot stress this enough. The inclusion center belongs to every cadet. To me, the inclusion center stands as a room to show pride for who I am and who makes up Cal Maritime. It shows everyone coming to my school that we cel ebrate diversity, that we treat everyone with respect. Everyone has a place here.
I’m excited to see what current and future cadets do with the space.”
At the official opening on March 3, President Thomas Cropper, VP of Administration Franz Lozano, and Director of Facilities Planning, Design, and Construction Tom Van Pelt thanked the community for its patience during the construction phase as well as the various partners for their collabo ration in designing and completing it. “The most important thing we’ve done here is to create safety,” said Cropper. “Safety is important in our profession and it’s important on our campus as well,” he added. He noted that campus beautification is an important goal too. “Beautifying the campus and unify ing what we’ve done here with other parts of the campus and creating a place where we all want to come—cadets, faculty, staff, alumni and visitors—it's fantastic.”
CADETS KARL NORDHOFF ’25, BEN VOTH MT ’24, MATTHEW THOMAS ME ’23, AND STEPHEN BROWN GSMA ’24 TOUR THE CONSTRUCTION UNDERWAY WITH MEMBERS OF CONTRACTOR OTTO CONSTRUCTION. WWW.CSUM.EDU | Cal Maritime SUMMER 2022 15 On Morrow Cove With its dedication and reopening anticipated in 2023, the future Mayo Hall promises to enhance the campus as an all-purpose building focused on cadet needs. Balancing sustainability and enduring respect for campus tra ditions, the LEED Gold-certified Mayo Hall will retain some of the original façade and will house lounges, work stations, and meet ing rooms as well as the Health Services Center, Career Services Center, and Veterans Success Center.MakingtheOld AgainNew
According to the study’s authors, investment in a college education pays off broadly, but there are enor mous differences across insti tutions and courses of study. With levels of college debt on the rise, they point out that understanding an institution’s value prior to enrollment is key. “College typically pays off, but the return on investment varies by credential, program of study, and thatwithouting,outpeoplesaid.Dr.Georgetown’sinstitution,”CEWDirectorAnthonyP.Carnevale“It’simportanttoinformabouttheriskoftakingloansbutnotgraduatwhichcouldleavethemtheincreasedearningswouldhelpthemrepaythoseloans.”ComparedtoCaliforniacollegesanduniversities,thenew
Cal Maritime Degree
Georgetown CEW’s February 2022 ROI tool ranked 4,500 colleges and universities by net value at several intervals following enrolling—after 10 years, 15 years, 20 years, 30 years, and 40 years—rely ing on the Department of Education’s updated College Scorecard data for its analysis. CEW’s value metric measures the cost of earning a degree from each school and how much graduates earn through out their careers as well as how long it would take to invest and earn that money instead. The report considers the metric at a long-term (40 years) horizon to be the most comprehensive benchmark for judging value, though the shorter time horizons analyzed yield important information.
CADETS LEARN HOW TO DRIVE SHIPS WITH SIMULATORSSTATE-OF-THE-ARTONCAMPUS. Value Affirmed
“The study confirms what we know. For affordability, for value, and for job opportuni ties, a Cal Maritime education is a good investment,” said Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Lori Schroeder. “Our faculty are delivering a first-rate educa tion and preparing cadets for employment across a num ber of professions. The result is not only a solid impressivebuteducationuniversityalso earnings over their lifespan.”
The global pandemic has interrupted college plans and caused many to wonder, “Is college worth it?” According to a recent study and online tool released by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce (CEW), the answer depends on the institution. As for Cal Maritime, Georgetown’s analysis under scores that an investment in an education here pays off, rank ing Cal Maritime 26th in the nation for return on investment (ROI) both 30 and 40 years after graduation, and at shorter spans—22nd 20 years out, and 157th ten years out.
16 SUMMER 2022 Cal Maritime | WWW.CSUM.EDU On Morrow Cove
Georgetown rankings put Cal Maritime in the company of several elite private and public institutions, rank ing it just behind Caltech, Stanford, and Harvey Mudd and Claremont McKenna Colleges for net value 10 years after graduation. In that span, Cal Maritime outranks four top-tier UCs, and one CSU, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. For example, Caltech’s net value ten years out is $388,000, Cal Maritime’s is $263,000, with University of California, Irvine at Among$202,000.state maritime acad emies, Cal Maritime took top billing in value, onlythanaftertionsharemetricCEWMaritime.MaineMassachusettsoutrankingMaritime,Maritime,andSUNYalsoanalyzedanewthatmeasurestheofstudentsataninstituwhoseearnings10yearsenrollmentarehigherthoseofworkerswithahighschooldiploma.
Scan the code below to view a sortable table of 4,500 colleges and universities ranked by ROI metrics including tuition, median student debt and earnings, and the share of students with earnings greater than high graduates.school
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A PEEK INTO THE PAST
ARCHIVIST PATRICIA THIBODEAU CAREFULLY HANDLES THE METAL BOX FOUND IN THE CORNERSTONE OF MAYO HALL DURING RENOVATION.
Patricia Thibodeau carefully removed the contents of a small, rusted box that had been placed inside a brick of Mayo Hall more than 75 years ago. A large group of cadets looked on as the time capsule revealed a 1945 edition of The Binnacle, a copy of the Vallejo Timesthat featured a photo of the class of 1945, two metal offset printing plates used by the newspaper, a few 1945 pennies, a U.S. Navy Reserve dog tag, and a business card from the Mayo Hall
Library Dean Michele Van Hoeck shared that there will be a cam pus history exhibit—including these 1945 items–displayed in Mayo Hall when it is reopened following renovations. There are also plans to place a new time capsule in Mayo Hall when it is dedicated in 2023. In the meantime, the curious can scan the QR code to the left and comb through campus archives through the Campus History Collection online portal.
On Wednesday, March 16 at 11:00, Campus History
Professor Lauren Hartman wondered if the time capsule had been forgotten. “Yes and no,” Thibodeau offered. “When the box was discovered during renovations to Mayo Hall, our campus his tory files revealed news stories showing the placement of the time capsule in the cornerstone of the building. So, while it was tempo rarily forgotten by us, the archives never forget!”
ARCHIVIST PATRICIA THIBODEAU REVEALS THE CONTENTS OF THE TIME CAPSULE THAT WAS DISCOVERED DURING THE ONGOING RENOVATION OF MAYO HALL AS CADETS LOOK ON. PLACED IN 1945, ITS CONTENTS WERE IN PRISTINE CONDITION.
7. Cadet Rachel Maosi holds the stopper as the warping head slowly releases the mooring line to be tied off.
8. After a bumpy start, the Golden Bear finally made it under the Golden Gate Bridge.
9. Cadets Stanley James Piedra, Vincent Saunders, and Nolan Bronstrup smile for the camera in their salt and peppers as the ship comes into the Port of Los Angeles. 10. The Fast Rescue Boat goes ashore on Kauai. 11. Division 1D stands at attention in their salt and peppers during morning formation as we prepare to dock in Los Angeles.
1. Training Ship Golden Bear makes ready to get underway. 2. Cadet Will McVickars watches to see if the mooring line will make it onto the bit during the hawser toss in the Sinbad Games. 3. David Hopkins-Peña and Matthew Thomas await the beginning of formation.
12. A cadet is learning how to navigate working on the bridge of the ship. 13. First Class Engine cadet Meghan King looks up as the trash bag bursts during Plumber’s Nightmare. The goal of this game is to get as much pressure as possible into a series of broken pipes.
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4. Cadet Benjamin Handy carefully moves a chemical to help clean out the system during fuel transfer. 5. Noelle Kopping, MT and Sophie Scopazzi, MT work together to fix something on the ship. 6. Licensed Watch Engineer Julianne Cona in the pipe room monitoring operations during the fuel trans fer in the Port of Long Beach.
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TheModernAgeNSMV
ome eight years ago, Cal Maritime President Thomas Cropper found himself being debriefed in a stairwell at the U.S. Capitol building. He and his staff had come to Washington to meet one-on-one with the late Congressman Elijah Cummings and discuss the prospect of procur ing a brand-new training ship for Cal Maritime and four of the country’s other state maritime academies. At the last minute, however, the Congressman had to cancel. His staff said they’d still be willing to meet—if they could find a space. The group was informed that the stairwell was free to use. Ship
SHOWS ONE
On March 15, 2022, however, the staffer’s gloomy prediction was proven decisively wrong. On that day, President Joe Biden signed into law H.R. 2471, a $1.5 billion-dollar appropriations bill that included funding for Cal Maritime’s very own state-of-the-art National Security Multi-Mission Vessel (NSMV). It would be the fifth NSMV that Congress had agreed to purchase for the academies.
There's no adaptive cruise control. There's no ABS braking.” Sure, you figure out how to drive, but you’re limited by outdated systems and technology. Not so when it comes to the NSMV 5. Among its countless new features, it will have a helipad, inte grated WiFi and fiber optic cabling, a training bridge, several onboard laboratories, dedicated medi cal facilities, an auditorium, and autonomous and semi-autonomous systems. For his part, Cropper is most excited about the ship’s roll-on/roll-off (RORO) capability, which will allow wheeled cargo and OPPOSITE: SUNY CELEBRATES KEEL LAYING OF THEIR SHIP, NSMV 1, MARAD VIEW OF THE NSMV
THE
Cropper recalls a Cummings staffer telling him. “I just don't think it has any chance of ever coming to reality.” After Cropper and his team had traveled all the way from California to plead their case, being shut down in a stairwell wasn’t quite the outcome they had hoped for.
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EMPIRE OPPOSITESTATE.LOWER: AN ILLUSTRATION FROM
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The new ship, known as NSMV 5, will be built by the Philly Shipyard company in Philadelphia at an estimated cost of $320 million. It’s expected to be completed sometime between the summer of 2025 and the summer of 2026. Like the Golden Bear, Cal Maritime’s current training vessel, this new ship will be formally owned by the Maritime Administration, an agency of the US Department of Transportation, and leased to the university.
Since its founding in 1929 as the California Nautical School, Cal Maritime—along with its fellow maritime academies—has had to make do with hand-medown service vessels. While the school has been grateful for the training ships it has received, there’s no comparison to having a truly modern ship to train cadets on, says Cropper. “The equivalent I think would be a 40-year-old car—say, an AMC Gremlin.
MARITIME COLLEGE
Things didn’t get much better after Cropper lobbed his request. “You know, that's a really great idea,”
CONSTRUCTION OF ONE OF THE NEW TRAINING SHIPS, A WORK IN PROGRESS. 22 SUMMER 2022 Cal Maritime | WWW.CSUM.EDU
While the ship itself will be a game changer for Cal Maritime, the symbolism of its funding can’t be overstated either, says Cropper. It marks the first time in US history (going all the way back to 1776) that the federal government had agreed to provide brand-new, purpose-built training ships to train future mariners. In Cropper’s view, it shows that the government recognizes how important the state maritime academies are to the country.
vehicles to enter and exit the ship directly. This functionality will be especially useful when the ship is deployed to help after natural disasters, which it’s expected to do as part of its leasing agree ment with the Maritime Administration. Ambulances and other emergency vehicles will be able to immediately access and leave the critical to train the next generation of mariners in more-up-to date ships,” says Franz Lozano, Cal Maritime’s Vice President for Administration and Finance and Chief Financial Officer. Being well-versed in the latest ship technology will make cadets seeking industry jobs in the US and around the world that much more prepared.
RIGHT:MARITIMETHE
“It'sship.really
BELOW: LESSLEY,LUCINDAACTING MARAD ADMINISTRATOR, AT THE KEEL LAYING EVENT FOR NSMV 1, BOUND FOR SUNY
Lori K. Schroeder, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, believes that having a new NSMV for Cal Maritime to call its own will instill an even stronger sense of pride in current and future cadets. “Whether in dock or underway on such a well-appointed training ship, Cal Maritime cadets cannot help but see that their
chosen professional field is taken seriously by everyone around them and indeed by their own federal government.”
And, of course, there was the close col laboration between Cal Maritime staff and their counterparts in the other maritime academies to move the needle.
In preparation for the NSMV 5’s arrival, Cal Maritime is planning a major upgrade to its pier and waterfront area, estimated to cost $60 million. Lozano expects much of the funding to come from the state and federal governments. One of the priorities of the Waterfront Master Plan, says Schroeder, is to “provide more access to the water for all of our cadets—for academic, athletic, as well as for recreational purposes.”
It was a long, often discouraging path to get to this point, one filled with days in the stairwell—both metaphorically and, in the case of the Cummings meeting, literally. Cropper credits widespread backing from different stakeholders in the shipping industry for helping convince members of Congress. He says his efforts were sup ported by shipbuilders, maritime unions, and “many, many, many, many congres sional delegations.” Closer to home, Cal Maritime alumni and families, and the California state government and university system, were equally important advocates.
Thousands of Cal Maritime alumni and current cadets surely feel the same way.
ANOTHER VIEW OF THE NSMV SHIPS FROM MARAD. shipforkeeltheWatchfulllayingceremonytrainingNSMV1.
Additionally, the curriculum will be updated to ensure students are fully prepared for training on the new ship, says Schroeder. This will involve studying ship drawings, getting input from faculty and the administration, and potentially sending an “advance team” to inspect one of the NSMVs that’s already been delivered to one of the other state maritime academies. While excitement about the new ship is palpable around campus and beyond, it’s undeniable that the Golden Bear, which served generations of cadets, will be deeply missed. Lozano, who keeps a picture of the ship in his office, equates the transition to “saying goodbye to a friend.”
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“This friend of yours has provided you with so much over the years—training all of these cadets that have awesome careers in the maritime industry and the transportation industry. Of course you're gonna miss them,” he says. The saga came full circle this past December, when Cropper crossed paths with the former Cummings staffer, Lucinda Lessley, now Acting Administrator of the Maritime Administration. They were attending the keel-laying for the first NSMV on the build ing block, the Empire State, to be delivered to SUNY Maritime College. “She turned to me and said, ‘I just want you to know, I remember what I said. I'm glad I was wrong.’”
In conversation, the president never gets tired of pointing out that the backing was bipartisan, from beginning to end. It turns out everyone likes cool new ships. Although funding for the first NSMVs was approved before the outbreak of COVID19, Lozano says current events have only bolstered the case for the ships. “COVID certainly has awakened the world and awakened our nation to how important supply chain logistics is now,” he says. In separate interviews, both he and Cropper offered a reminder that 90 percent of the world’s goods are moved by ship.
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Natalie Herring joined our campus in February as Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Management and Director of Admissions. A Chicago native, Natalie holds degrees from Dartmouth and Northwestern and has held numerous positions in the area of enrollment over her impressive career—including Enrollment Manager at the Urban Education Institute at University of Chicago, Director of Admissions and Financial Aid at University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education, and Assistant VP for Admission at the University of Baltimore. Most recently she was Associate Provost for Enrollment Management at the University of Illinois Springfield. We sat down with Natalie to get to know her a little better.
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I’ve been fortunate to work at some diverse, dynamic, and best practice insti tutions. The plan is to take all the knowl edge and incorporate it into solutions, initiatives and short- and long-term plans to stabilize, grow and optimize enroll ment. Enrollment Management is much more data-driven now, so onboarding the information technology needed to be suc cessful in a competitive higher education marketplace is key. Overseeing orientation in the past will hopefully make me a good partner to Dean Griswold as we plan for this year. But, enrollment is about walking parents, families, counselors, and com munities step by step from awareness through matriculation and census all the while being focused on retaining and graduating the leaders we all need in the future. Everyone needs some time off—how are you looking to spend your time off in your new home?
agreement.) It will also be a partnership. Enrollment Management looks forward to working with Athletics and a coaching staff that is actively recruiting; and with faculty, staff, and administrators with substan tive networks in maritime, education and industry. You’ve been at a wide variety of institutions, in several different areas, during some inter esting years for college admissions. How will you use what you’ve learned at those schools here at Cal Maritime?
with Admissions Expert Natalie Herring
Integrated marketing communications: a multi-channel effort targeted not only at identifying prospective students, but also in identifying, building, and maintain ing relationships with their influencers— teachers, coaches, counselors, advisors, parents, families, churches, communitybased organizations, and programs that serve the college bound. This also must be a bilingual effort. We have a long and proud history: we’re heading toward a centennial celebration in just a few short years. Yet we still have fewer women and people of color enrolled than we would like. How big a part of your mission is it to change those numbers?
It’s significant. I hope my experience in recruiting students from historically under represented groups will serve Cal Maritime well. First, we must build a plan, one that is intentional about recruiting a diverse group of students in terms of race and ethnic ity; gender/gender expression; LGBTQ; social strata and geography. For instance, let’s take a more proactive approach with recruiting within WUE states and territo ries. (WUE, or the Western Undergraduate Exchange, is a regional tuition savings
Welcome! What drew you to Cal Maritime? Cal Maritime is such a niche institution. It will really give me an opportunity to focus and delve deeply into our seven majors and our strengths in leadership and posi tive employment outcomes. We’re a specialized institution—some would say a hidden gem. What are your plans for getting the word out about Cal Maritime?
Moving from Chicago to California in January was enough of a treat! I very much enjoy the view from every window in my home. I’ve done a mix of touristy things like the Big Bus San Francisco tour, a walk of downtown Napa, and the visitor center in Vallejo, but mostly, it’s been shopping and fine dining in Walnut Creek. As I con tinue to get my footing, I look forward to connecting to some friends in the Bay area and partaking in the performing arts and museums and galleries.
Monthsona ne evening in early May, a group of weary mer chant mariners gathered in the crew lounge of the cargo ship President Wilson to sing karaoke. This bonding ritual was important enough that they met to sing and hang out no fewer than three times a week. “Wake me up, when the shipyard ends...” a crew member sang, mic in hand, as ten or so fellow crewmates looked on knowingly. The lines, a heartfelt albeit off-key rendition of the wistful 2004 pop hit “Wake Me Up When September Ends” by the rock group Green Day, expressed a common feel ing among the assembled. The President Wilson had arrived in the Changxing A LIGHT MOMENT FOR MADELEINE WOLZCKO ’15 AS SHE GESTURES TOWARD A NEARBY SHIP THAT BEARS HER NAME. SHE HAS USED HER MANY MONTHS ON BOARD A CONTAINER SHIP OFF CHINA TO SNAP SOCIAL MEDIA PHOTOS AND RECORD YOUTUBE VIDEOS ABOUT HER EXPERIENCES, ATTRACTING A SIGNIFICANT FOLLOWING.
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Shipyard, just outside Shanghai, in February for its five-year dry-dock maintenance. Due to the Chinese govern ment’s strict COVID-19 policies, however, the crew, most of whom had embarked in Oakland the previous November and made stops in Japan and South Korea on their way to Shanghai, were not allowed to leave the vessel. Nor could anyone come on. In official parlance, they were “restricted to ship.” The lockdown continued through early June, when the President Wilson was finally allowed to leave Changxing. (As of this writing, it has left the shipyard and will head back to California after making one more cargo stop in Asia.) This means that many of the crew members haven’t stepped off the ship in eight months. That karaoke session is just one of many slice-of-life moments captured by Second Mate and Cal Maritime ’15 alum Madeleine Wolczko in the web documentary series she started under lockdown, aptly named Restricted to Ship. Unlike most documen taries about the shipping industry, though, the five-episode series doesn’t show life on the high seas, but on the sidelines.
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Wolczko credits interest in the series to its authentic, emotionstoking production. While an insider’s look at a situation few would ever get to experience may initially bring in viewers, the poignant moments keep them sticking around. “The situation itself is very ridiculous,” she says. “Having people see that these are humans out here behind the ships and the [industry] is what gets people really engaged. “I believe in the power of experience above anything,” notes Wolczko in a video clip shared before Episode 5 dropped. “I really want to convey truth here... I want to continue seeing this industry progress and build itself into a healthier work environment for every body. That’s what this is all about. That’s why I’m sharing this.”
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Watch episodes of Restricted to Ship on YouTube. Follow Wolczko on @madeleineannawolczkoInstagram.
Each episode of “Restricted to Ship” has racked up thousands of views and over a hundred comments on YouTube, and has been similarly well-received on Instagram, where Wolczko also posts shorter clips and pictures of and from the President Wilson. (One particularly amazing highlight: a haunting cover of the Radiohead song “Creep” in the ship’s empty and well-rusted cargo hold.)
Wolczko, who grew up in Vashon Island, Washington, uploaded her first episode, “Shanghai Lockdown,” to YouTube on April 17. Frustrated with her numbing daily routine and in desperate search of a creative outlet, she spliced together the interviews and footage she’d been shooting as she made her rounds, day after day after day. She already had some familiarity with the Adobe Premiere Pro video production software before boarding, but with little else to do on the ship, she quickly mastered it. Each episode of Restricted to Ship provides an intimate look at the ups and downs experienced by Wolczko and her twenty-three fellow crewmates (all of them male) as they attempt to create some sense of normalcy and community. Many of the scenes are informative or light, like the one where the crew carries in giant, mutant-sized zucchinis that have been delivered to the gangway by the Chinese government. There’s also the time crew member Giancarlo Thomae gets a much-needed haircut, and that brief karaoke scene. The difficulties of the situation are never far away, however. Standing outside on a deck, with land just a mile or two away, dayman John Clark tells Wolczko that their current assignment “has probably been the toughest for me in the 17 years that I've been sailing.” We also see Thomae leaving a tender voicemail for his grandmother, who has dementia, on her 95th birthday. During a survey of the slop chest, the crew discovers they’re out of sham poo, and possibly toothpaste. They’ll have to make do until a new delivery arrives—if it arrives at all. The series, and its producer-star, has been a hit in both the maritime and civilian worlds. In April, barely a week after her first episode was released, Wolczko was a guest on the influential shipping podcast What’s Going On with Shipping, hosted by Campbell University professor Sal Mercogliano; a story about her on the Seattle evening news quickly followed. The New York Times offered its own story on June 6.
While nothing could quite prepare Wolczko for the unique chal lenges she faced while restricted to the ship, she says her experi ence at Cal Maritime helped her find her leadership voice, especially her time as a company commander, during her senior year. This has helped her maintain her authority and her cool while stuck aboard, which, in turn, have given her the space to pursue more creative endeavors like Restricted to Ship.
CAL MARITIME ALUMNA MADELEINE WOLCZKO KEPT A POLAROID RECORD OF HER DAYS RESTRICTED TO A CARGO SHIP OFF CHANGXING, CHINA.
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Generous Boat Donation is a Game Changer
Athletics Navy, Stanford, Cal, UCLA, USC, Michigan, Maryland, Rhode Island, Hawai’i. Upon first glance, it’s easy for sailing fans to think of Cal Maritime as an underdog, especially when it competes in regattas that include the most respected and recognized universities in the nation. The Keelhaulers deserve their spot in their sport’s biggest competitions, as evident from their success throughout the 2021-22 season, the latest chapter of the program’s storied history. Last year, Cal Maritime won their fourth Kennedy Cup—and the right to represent the United States at the Student Yachting World Cup in France—the program’s eighth Harbor Cup in the 14-race history of the event, added another pair of cham pionships by winning the Cal Team Race and Rainier Cup, and enjoyed 11 top-three finishes within the 18 events in which they competed. And the Keelhaulers achieved all of this with an operational budget and number of resources that are nowhere near their peers’. Until now. Last March, the sailing program cel ebrated a game-changing opportunity when it sailed a TP52 around the San Francisco Bay and enjoyed one-of-a kind views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
The trip itself took place after this beauti ful vessel was renamed Heather, in honor of Heather Cropper, Cal Maritime President Thomas A. Cropper’s wife and the First Lady of Cal Maritime from 2012 until her passing in 2019. While at Cal Maritime, Heather Cropper dedicated her time, passion and energy to the well-being and care of the Cal Maritime Academy, a community she truly loved. Her lasting impact was celebrated in 2012 when she received the Navy Meritorious Public Service Award; known for her devo tion to supporting other military families and displaying an uncommon understand ing for the unique situation they faced, her kindness, grace, sincerity and the love she provided others shaped a legacy that continues today. Naming the new keelboat after Heather Cropper is a fitting tribute because, like Heather herself, this act of kindness will enhance and improve the quality of life enjoyed by others for future generations. The ability to fund the TP52 sailing cam paign is due in large part to the donations of a generous anonymous individual. “The connection to this anonymous donor
MEMBERS OF CAL MARITIME’S SAILING TEAM: CYRUS KHALEELI ’24 ME, CONNER SKEWES ’25 MET, ETTIENE QUILLE ’25 MET, JACOB FISKER-ANDERSEN ’22 MET, COOPER SMITH ’24 MT, RYAN DOWNEY ’25 MT, DJANGO KNAFO-TOMLINSON ’25 MT, KYLE COLLINS ’23 MT, BROCK PAQUIN ’23 MET; (FRONT ROW) HAILEY THOMPSON ’22 MT, MADDY RIVERA ’22 BA, JUSTIN ZMINA ’23 MT.
“Just this past year, Cal Maritime won three pres tigious races—the Kennedy Cup, Harbor Cup and Rainier Cup—that is unheard of, especially for a school of our size that did not previously have a TP52 to train on.
Just a few months after discussions began, Cal Maritime’s sailing program was on the verge of experiencing something special, thanks to the hard work and dedication of multiple individuals.
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“We have a vessel donation program… which is responsible for two-thirds of money raised at Cal Maritime over the last few years,” said Hart. Director of Athletics Karen Lee Yoder and Associate Director of Athletics Steve Doten were pulled in and the next set of conversations involved Bo Smith, a mem ber of a third-party brokerage firm called Civic Seas.
need a training boat, I recommended this boat highly and [Karen] agreed to move forward with this process. Once Bo gave clearance that the boat was ready to head north, the next challenge involved finding an appropriate location to dock it.
was an individual named Doug Holm, Lockton Insurance Brokers Senior Vice President,” said Senior Development Director and Campaign Manager Charles Hart, a member of Cal Maritime’s University Advancement team. “He is a broker who carried the insurance for this individual’s boats; when he decided to change direction, Doug talked to him about donating two of his yachts to Cal Maritime.”
“However, a SC52 is a cruising boat that is luxurious with a galley and bunks whereas a TP52 is built for racing.”
Since this boat had been a training vessel at the Naval Academy for 10 years, maintenance and repairs were minimal, and the boat exceeded Cal Maritime’s “Knowingexpectations.we
“I think sailing is Cal Maritime’s strongest sport, especially with its connection to the industry. This program shaped numerous strong sailors, and I feel that will continue at another level with the addition of this TP52 because there is nowhere to go but up.”
“(Bo) looks for boats and helps move them through the donation process,” Hart explained. “People who are interested in donating their boat will contact one or both of us, since every donation made to the university must go through the Foundation since it is a separate non-profit entity.”
A member of the Cal Maritime Academy Foundation board for the last eight years, Holm was familiar with the university’s sailing program, its storied history and its need for a training boat. Through his network of industry connections, which included Hart, a dream started to become reality.
Discover Calyoursecurity,satisfaction,theandsimplicityofdonatingvesseltoMaritime.
Hart added, “I saw the team when it competed at the Harbor Cup, everyone appreciated the steps the university took to support the program. Karen jumped on board with this boat donation quickly because she saw the value in supporting the team to this degree.
Once Smith connected with the TP52 donor, the next part of the process involved a surveyor, whose sole job is inspecting the boat from top to bottom, like a home inspection, so Cal Maritime fully understands its condition, the amount of repairs needed and its estimated cost.
Said Hart, “we all worked together, everyone added their experience to make this process work.”
Hart added, “having been a past commodore at the St. Francis Yacht Club (San Francisco) I have been heavily involved in big regattas and big boats. After talk ing to Bo, I told him how our sailing program does not have a big boat to train on during the school year and thought it would be a smart idea to secure a training boat to help this team. I told Bo we were looking for the best training boat, either a Santa Cruz 52 or a Transpacific 52, since they are the same length.
“This boat draws 10 feet, for this kind of boat is deep yet not unusual (most boats draw 6-7 feet). I was hoping we could keel this boat on campus down by the marina, but it’s too shallow along the waterfront. I contacted Paul Kaplan, the owner of KKMI Shipyard in Richmond, since his specialty involves working with boats with a big draw. He knew of a slip in Marina Bay that would work, so he made some calls, contacted me, then I reached out to Karen who took it from there.”
Even though the donor asked to remain anonymous and receive minimal, if any, publicity—a common request made by a vast majority of donors—there was one request: Cal Maritime could not race this boat out of Marina del Rey. Yoder quickly agreed, understanding the impact this donation would make to the program and its cadet-athletes. With a location to dock this boat in Richmond secured, the green light was given to sail the TP52 up the California coast in late January. Once a final round of inspections took place after it reached Northern California, the final part of this process involved a once-in a lifetime celebration, which took place once the TP-Heather was christened with university VIPs, sailing cadet-athletes and coaches on Saidboard.Hart, “I think everyone is happy since a TP52 is the cream of the crop for a sailing program like ours. I received numerous calls, including one from (cadet-athlete) Max Roth’s dad in Honolulu, who was just as excited as the cadets.”
“When I researched the [Air Force] Academy as part of an eighthgrade project, I discovered the position of Air Force firefighter and made that my attendedthis“InearninglegeimportancestressedandAirwhomytalkingdream.professionalultimateAftertouncle,isintheForce,hemymomtheofcolandthevalueofmydegree.highschool,Ihadepiphany:WhatifIcollege,eventually learned to fly and entered the Reserve? I could work for Cal Fire, and that career path would provide the best of all worlds for me. Even though my dreams shifted and evolved growing up, attending that Symposium and being on base brought everything full
Earlier this year, Alicia Porter was one of four Cal Maritime cadets selected to attend the Air Force Academy’s National Character & Leadership Symposium. Joining the Simi Valley native on this trip to Colorado Springs were men’s water polo cadet-athlete Powley and former men’s water polo cadet-athlete Danny Guzman, Justin Pham
After the Keelhaulers’ women’s basketball team returned to Vallejo following its season finale in Southern California, Porter attended two classes the next morning before heading to the airport with Powley, Guzman and Pham.
“I was personbeingeachsincestrengthenIister,one’sPorter.October,”conferencemendedrecomforthislastsaid“LikecharacleadershipsomethingcanalwaysIworkdayonthebestIcanbe and fulfilling my individual potential. I am a servant-leader,” she explained, “that is the style that best relates to me and a leadership style I feel comfortable possessing. Character and leadership go hand in hand, who I am as a person is strongly influenced by who I am as a leader.”
As was the case with her peers, Porter soaked up every ounce of wisdom provided by an extensive list of world-renowned leaders and professionals from the moment the Symposium commenced. However, unlike other participants, she enjoyed a unique experience when
“I dreamt about becoming a firefighter after my elementary school teacher’s husband visited my class and shared what he did for a living. Until I entered fourth grade, that was my only goal —becoming a firefighter.
MOMENTLIGHT-BULBA 30 SUMMER 2022 Cal Maritime | WWW.CSUM.EDU Athletics
Outside of the opportunity to strengthen her leadership skills, the location of the event piqued Porter’s “Iinterest.haveknown for a while how big a deal this conference is, especially since I am interested in becoming an Air Force officer once I graduate from Cal PorterMaritime.”hasvalued the concept of leadership since she was a kid, her first experience being when she played youth sports and became a team cap tain, something that laid the foundation for her personal identity and professional goal. While certain of a career in public service, she considered becoming a firefighter or following her uncle’s footsteps and joining the Air Force.
Not many people are aware that Porter carries a notebook with her everywhere; in addition to reminding her about the steps and choices needed to become a positive person, that notebook quickly became the home to informa tion and wisdom obtained throughout the Symposium—additional tools she looks forward to applying as a cadet-athlete, team captain, and incoming Corps Commander.
“During my time in Colorado Springs, I was like a kid in a candy shop. Not only did a light-bulb moment take place regarding my future, that experience helped me truly enjoy everything that took place around me. My eyes lit up when I saw Air Force cadets in uniform because I want to wear that uniform one day, protect the Constitution and represent a country created from that
“One thing that resonated with me involved leading by compas sion, which is something I see in sports when individuals are praised with great emotion but criticized in a stoic manner at an appropriate time and location. Another speaker highlighted a strategy I can use during a negative situation: ‘Everyone has battled adversity, if you feel bad for yourself during a negative moment, you cannot help anyone. Think about lifting weight in a gym—the more weight you lift on any given moment, the stronger you will Thatbecome.’”lastpiece of advice reminded Porter of what took place during her freshman year — another moment that, in hindsight, distilled the wisdom she received in Colorado Springs.
“The speakers at the Symposium were high-end officers who spoke about their experiences and made me think ‘I want to do what that person is doing. Twenty years from now, I want to share my experi ences with someone like me.’”
“Looking back at other challenging times in my life, I know how strong I am since adversity tests you while resiliency showcases your strength. Not only did I endure those situations, I realized that other people are facing challenges that are unknown to others.
“Strengthening my leadership skills was one expectation I pos sessed entering this Symposium, seeing how close I was to one of my personal dreams was another opportunity this event provided. I always wanted to become an Air Force officer, I even thought about attending the Academy during my high school career but chose not to apply and attend Cal Maritime instead to continue my basketball experience.
a light-bulb moment took place—one that hit her on a personal and deeper level.
“When some people get close to, or fulfill, their dreams, sometimes reality does not meet expecta tions and one is left to figure out a new direction, personal or professional goal. That was not the case with me throughout my time at the Academy; if anything, it showed firsthand how I am on the best path for me and fueled my desire to return in the “Beingfuture.
“That realization led to an immediate shift in body language and an enhanced feeling of pride. I take pride in my country; knowing someday soon that I will protect something bigger than myself was a firsthand feeling that did not take place until that week, because I was surrounded by people who felt the same way.
Women’sAliciadocument.”PorterBasketballCadet-Athlete
“However, the clarity I felt about my future validated my life’s choices, from an educational and profes sional standpoint. I felt that shift from a dream to a goal; attending that event allowed me to understand that I am on the right path, regarding what I want to do with my life after I earn my Cal Maritime degree.” That ‘a-ha moment’ sought by so many people not only pro vided a level of peace to Porter, it led to the answer to a ques tion she had asked herself many times in recent years.
“Seeing that shift from dream to goal—while I was on the Air Force Academy campus, I loved the environment and enjoyed being that close to something that always interested me—validated my postundergraduate plans.
“In my life, one of those challenging moments took place when my stepdad passed away. He was the one who raised me, in addition to other people in my village. That hit me hard because it took place during my freshman year at Cal Maritime during peak basketball season. At that same time, the campus caught fire and I missed a week of school.
Porter added, “I am someone who likes to listen before respond ing. Those seminars enhanced my personal experience while on base and helped me digest my moment of clarity.”
able to learn from an amazing lineup of speakers was a valuable opportunity that I am forever grateful to enjoy. Discovering tools that are beneficial to the role I hold now, while strengthening my leadership skills are positive elements that I gained from this trip,” explained Porter, who was voted incoming Corps Commander by a committee last March.
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“I want to become that compassionate component that builds people up and strengthens their resiliency instead of tearing them down.”
S ports gave me a way to build my confidence and leadership skills, and provided a space to feel safe and stress-free from whatever was going on in my life. Sports have always been the backbone of my life and something I could always count on. Playing soccer taught me how important it is to work as a team and ensure com munication is always taking place. I feel confident using the skills I learned playing soccer when I approach a new job or set ting, and adapting them accordingly.
The confidence, strength and character created through athleticprovideparticipationtoolsthatgirls and women can lever age to reach their full personal and athletic potential, becoming strong leaders in competition and life.
National Girls and Women in Sports Day
Kai Kraus Women’s Basketball
S ports taught me lessons about professionalism by exposing me to different types of leadership, which gave me opportunities to grow as a leader and learn how to respectfully follow those above Participatingme. and competing in sports also taught me how to be responsible, I learned that my actions affect me and my teammates as well. I learned to take commitments seriously, become respon sible for myself and my belongings, how to effectively communicate with my team and my coaches.
Maddy Dack Vice President, Council of Cadet-Athletes; Women’s Soccer
All of these traits and skills have become a vital part of who I am today as a studentathlete and leader.
Emily Silva President, Council of Cadet-Athletes; Women’s Soccer
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Cal EducationandAthleticsMaritimePhysical Department is proud to recognize the accomplishments of female athletes of all ages during the 36th annual National Girls and Women in Sports Day (February 2), powered by the Women’s Sports Foundation. Founded in 1974 by Billie Jean King, the Women’s Sports Foundation’s mission is focused on advancing the lives of girls and women through sports and physical activity. Events like NGWSD highlight the Foundation’s continu ing efforts to expand access and opportunities for girls and women in sports, advocate for equality and serve millions of individuals across the nation.
P laying sports helped me become a leader, learn how to work with a team of people and figure out ways to succeed. You learn a lot when you play and it can carry over to things like school and work. I am happy, and feel good, when I am active and playing any sport.
T hree core values that I learned through playing sports are disci pline, confidence, and respect. By being disciplined, I am able to prioritize, compartmentalize, and be where my feet are; I trust my decisions and my abilities because I am confident; being respect ful allows me to become an effective employee, colleague, and friend to every one whose paths cross with mine.
Karen Yoder Director of Athletics and Physical Education conflicts and disagreements. Sports not only fueled my competitive nature, it cre ated memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.
A s the youngest child and only girl of three siblings, I often found myself excluded from sports and other athletics activities by my own brothers. Despite their best efforts to ditch me, I sometimes found the field or court on my own. Fortunately, our church/school had an active CYO sports program for boys and girls. Soon, I had my own group to learn and compete. My activities included swim ming, running/track, basketball and tennis. Sports kept me out of trouble and gave me a sense of belonging. Regardless of the outcome, we were a team and learned to support each other. I also developed fundamental physical skills which helped my confidence grow as well. I continued in sports all through high school and college. Although my knees may protest, I continue to stay active and competitive.
Mel Baccay Assistant Athletic Director I was centered and grounded in a team dynamic at an early age and quickly learned the importance of time management, especially since I was a three-sport athlete in high school. Conflict resolution, problem solving, role identifica tion, team building and failure recovery were strong pillars of an athletic experi ence that created the foundation of who I am as an individual.
Emily Scheese Head Women’s Soccer Coach
Denise Bennett Head Women’s Basketball Coach S ports immensely impacted my life growing up: My dad is a retired Naval veteran following 25 years of service which include two wars. There were times when he was gone for months at a time, but when he returned we always bonded over basketball, whether it was us play ing one-on-one, him coaching me, or us hanging out at home watching a game. Being a part of a team growing up taught me how to work with others, and handle
T he pressures of training and competi tion were greater as a youth gymnast than they ever were as a soccer player, so that foundation provided me with the discipline, work ethic and dedica tion that carried over both into soccer, when I picked up the sport later in life, and in the classroom. I also realized how much I loved being involved in a team sport where one could work with others in creating something great. I loved the sense of com munity and camaraderie created within the team.
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Whether you are an athlete, non-athlete, coach, administrator or support staff, these tenets created by my athletic experi ences can help anyone succeed in their personal and professional lives:
Respect: You need to respect your oppo nent, officials, yourself, the institution you represent, family and personal values. Trust: You need to trust the process and believe that other individuals, when they interact with you, will do so with a positive, not negative intent. Believe: With all things, the power of belief is important.
Angie Hébert Head Women’s Golf Coach
practical level. They learned the theoreti cal side of battery-electric technology and hydrogen technology, but rarely is there an opportunity to show and demonstrate this for people. AC Transit is one of the leaders in these types of technology. Being able to see it used by one of the leading innova tors in the entire company was a great opportunity for everyone.
Following an extensive review of every one’s schedule, Carvalho’s hard work throughout the preceding eight months came to fruition when Cal Maritime’s men’s and women’s soccer cadet-athletes (he also serves as an assistant coach for the Keelhaulers’ women’s soccer program) enjoyed a visit and in-depth presentation at one of AC Transit’s local hubs.
“Cadets were able to interact and engage with engineers and managers about the chemistry behind this technology and learn how everything works. They asked great questions about its use, the pros and cons of each technology and why AC Transit used each in various situations.”
MAKING REAL-WORLD GREEN TECHNOLOGIES THE GOAL: MEN’S SOCCER COACH MIKE CARVALHO VISITS AN AC TRANSIT HUB WITH A GROUP OF CADET-ATHLETES.
“I did not know what to expect when we visited the facility, I arrived with an open mind and was curious to learn about Coach Mike’s role at AC Transit,” said freshman women’s soccer cadet-athlete Maya Sortor.
“It was interesting to learn about the types of clean energy sources AC Transit uses, this is the first company to commit itself to hydrogen technology. I was fascinated to
“Coach Mike started talking about this potential opportunity throughout the season to visit AC Transit. Once everything became official, he sent an email to all men’s and women’s soccer cadet-athletes regarding this tour. This was an easy decision for me and my friend because we quickly said ‘yes.’ The off-season was the perfect time for this tour since it was an easier fit for everyone’s schedule,” explained Sortor.
CrossandClassroomRealWorldPaths
The mechanical engineering major added, “I did not expect to see one of their hydrogen buses in action; a bus had its engine hood open and one of the workers explained the details about how the engine worked using an alternative fuel source.”
As the IT manager of cloud infrastructure at one of the most innovative public transit agencies in the nation, head men’s soccer coach Mike Carvalho sought creative opportunities to combine his daytime and nighttime passions to enhance his cadet-athletes’ undergraduate experience.
Joining Carvalho and the cadet-athletes was Ryan Storz, associate professor in Cal Maritime’s Department of Engineering Technology, who has an extensive career within the industry. Throughout the tour, Professor Storz enjoyed sharing his experiences, discussing the chemistry and engineering involved in AC Transit’s latest technological innovations, like Bloom box technology—this converts natural gas into electricity—in addition to the company’s hydrogen fueling system with cadets.
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Added Carvalho, “I thought this was an opportunity for cadet-athletes to see real-world green technologies in use at a
During the tour, one of AC Transit’s engi neers talked about leaving a bus running for an hour and returning to find a pail full of water from the exhaust system—a byproduct of the company’s hydrogen fuel cell technology.
Libby Bowles (women’s crew) will serve as Director of Student Affairs, current ASCMA President Becca Masliah (women’s soc cer) is the new Engineering Upperclass Senator, Ryan Edmister (men’s water polo/rugby) was named MT/LM Underclass Senator with Ona Shafer elected Letters & Sciences Underclass Senator.
Next year’s CCA team representatives include Nicandro and Braxton Adderly (men’s basketball), Jake Banich and Ryan Bean (men’s golf), Josh Kuiper and Ronald Squier (men’s soccer), Ian Diamond and Jake Douglas (men’s water polo), Trevor Hodges and Andrew Scannell (men’s cross coun try), Ryan Packard and Wilson Urkov (rugby), Frisell, Collins and Justin Zmina (sailing), Tuimaunei, Dylan Fulton and Marissa Serrano (women’s basketball), Yanna Albarracin and Ambria Gee (women’s golf), Amanda Carvalho and Maya Sortor (women’s soccer), Maura Freiermuth and Sriya Santhanam (women’s water polo).
David Taliaferro, Alicia Porter (wom en’s basketball), Sarai Alonso (women’s cross country) and Spencer Powley (men’s water polo) are members of the incoming campus Corps Executive Staff and are taking part in the transition process with members of the current team.
“I enjoyed watching the cadets con template that, and seeing firsthand how green technology can be fun,” Carvalho Insaid.addition to fueling cadet-athletes’ inter est in a potential career within the indus try, or at AC Transit, Carvalho enjoyed other unique benefits from this tour. “Being able to relate to everyone and strengthen the coach and cadet-athlete relationship, especially in this setting, was an exciting and enjoyable opportu nity. I think this enhanced their relation ship with me, not only as a coach, but as a professional.”
Recent weeks became unforgettable occasions for numerous Cal Maritime cadet-athletes who were selected or elected to numerous leadership positions for the 2022-23 academic year.
As announced by Commandant of Cadets
Earlier this week, members of the Council of Cadet Athletes selected a new group
discover how many companies are learn ing from AC Transit.
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Following the recent ASCMA election, another group of cadet-athletes will repre sent the student body in various positions.
Kyle Collins (sailing), Vice President Mele Tuimaunei (women’s basketball), Secretary Raven Frisell (women’s cross country/sailing) and California Pacific Conference Representative Angelo Nicandro (men’s basketball).
“I was not aware of how many people use AC Transit each day as their main source of transportation, or how it posi tively impacts the community (and Earth) by committing to clean and zero emis sion technology,” Sortor added. By seeing a different side to one of her soccer coaches, Sortor was quick to admit how “this tour was eye-opening because I envisioned myself in a pro fessional environment like this one. I still have a way to go since I became a mechanical engineering major last fall, but it was interesting to see various positions within the industry that are out Shethere.”also added that “Coach Mike was so excited to have everyone visit his workplace; we were thrilled, and I know he was too, having everyone from Cal Maritime on property to learn about the company he works for. I loved seeing him off the field and sharing experiences from his place of work. I knew Coach was so passionate about his career, but it reached another level of happiness whenever he answered any question we asked about technology that is AC Transit’s current focus.”
LeadershipSecureCadet-AthletesNumerousPositions
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| WWW.CSUM.EDU Alumni
65 Bob Piazza was joined at his home in Eagle, ID over the 4th of July weekend by 3 classmates: Dick Branch, Dennis Gregor, and Brian Maxwell, and their wives.
Class Notes
70 After living 45 years in the same house in San Jose California, Len and Becky Bates moved to a little community called Fallbrook, near Oceanside, CA, to be closer to grandchildren. Says Len, “Our new home is a bit of a project: the wiring needs major corrections, and the ivy and other plants are over grown. But I should be able to get everything right in the next 20 09years.”
A crew of faithful Keelhaulers, by way of MARAD, PASHA and MEBA, came to work on the Golden Bear, helping make her ready for Cruise 2022. Pictured left to right are Alex Baird ’16, Triduny N. Tran ’89, Kevin Sposato ’20, and Sabrina Brown ’19.
On the 4th, the group par ticipated in the Caldwell Idaho parade with a jeep from the Warhawk Museum. (Note the tee shirts Brian had made for the occasion: on the back of the shirts is printed “California Maritime Academy”.)
The following weekend Price was visited by another classmate, Mike Miller and his com panion Lilly.
Alex Dunn“Panama” ’09 MEBA chief engineer announces the birth of their 7lb 1oz baby boy born May 14 in Panama, Jonah Bruce Dunn.
PICTURED WITH A 1952 MARINE CORPS JEEP WITH A 50 CAL MACHINE GUN PRIOR TO THE CALDWELL, ID 4TH OF JULY PARADE ARE (LEFT TO RIGHT) BRIAN MAXWELL, DENNIS GREGOR, DICK BRANCH, AND BOB PIAZZA.
ENJOYING FINE COMPANY AT BARBACOAS RESTURANT IN BOISE ARE (LEFT TO RIGHT) BOB PIAZZA, PENNY PIAZZA, JAN MAXWELL, DONNA BRANCH, DENNIS GREGOR, LINDA GREGOR, BRIAN MAXWELL, AND DICK BRANCH. Maritime
18 Lester Frank (ME ’03, MS TEM ’18) will be supervising a major restoration to the engine room hull of the Belem, a steel hulled, three-masted sailing ship built in 1896 in Nantes, France, which ing safety, efficient operations, service delivery, technical management, orga nizational well-being, including engage ment and development. Mack will oversee Marine Assurance, HR and labor, Fleet Engineering and Foss’s regional manage ment teams in Hawaii.CaliforniaOregon,Washington,and Coulston Van Gundy (ME ’06, MS TEM ’16) has
Shipping.ingandofviceappointedbeenaspresidentconstructionengineerforCrowley has been acquired by his company, V. Ships. The Belem is technically classed as a training ship and designated an historical monument in France. It has been vari ously owned by the Duke of Westminster and by Sir Arthur of the Guinness family.
MSTEM Graduates
Chris Mack (MT ’05, MS TEM ’23) has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Foss Maritime. As COO, Mack is responsible for all harbor services activities of Foss Maritime focused on delivering operational excellence includ Cal Maritime alumni who work together, play together. The crew from the RV Sally Ride, of the UCSD Scripps Institute, joined other alumni and parents at the TSGB Cruise Reception in San Diego. Pictured left to right are Adam Nottberg ’09, Megan Swindel ’09, Spencer Pierce ’07, Pamela Switzer ’18, Cameron Freels ’14, Joe Swindel ’09, Stephen Shigematsu ’15, Cooper Young ’20, and Alexa Magda ’16. Send csum.edu/newsalumniyourtoalumni
21 Dana Conrad (IBL ’16, MS TEM ’21) has started a new position as Production Supervisor at Toyota North 23America. Michael Dybvik (MS TEM ’23) is setting off to sail and see the Polynesian Islands. Follow along at www. svlakahina.com, on Instagram @svlaka hina, or on YouTube at Michael Dybvik.
14
Shamoun Aszed (MS TEM ’14) has recently moved to Turkey to set up an immigration consultancy and education company with his wife, Jenny Homan, a licensed immigration consultant with the government of Canada who specializes in refugee and human trafficking prevention.
Jennifer Wadsworth Aksoy (IBL ’08, MS TEM ’14), her hus band, Aykut, and daughter Azra welcomed a second beautiful daughter, Aylin Iola Aksoy, on November 4th. Jennifer still works as the Gate Manager for Barbours Cut Container Terminal at the Port of Houston Authority.
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Richard Milwaukee,8,CAawayRozinski,Joseph78,passedathisPenngrove,homeonNovember2021.HewasborninWI.
CLASS OF 1969 Bob 1948Reynolds,–2022
CLASS OF 1953
Richard Wentworth Vohs, 1940-2022
James Robert Lessard, 79, died March 7, 2022, at his home in Cody, WY. He was born in Calumet, MN. After graduation, James spent two years in the Navy, serving as a second lieutenant. He spent his career in the maritime industry, attaining the rank of captain of oceango ing vessels. James ultimately worked as a Columbia River bar pilot from 1979-99. He lived in Wyoming from 1972-79, and his love for the state – including its hunting and fishing – brought him back for retirement. The family said of their patriarch: “Home is the sailor, home from the sea, and the hunter home from the hill.” James is survived by his wife of 62 years, Helen Cowan; sons Michael, Thomas, Gregory, and Joel; 11 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; brother Frank Lessard Jr.; and sister Mary Momsen.
To submit information about Alumni and Friends of Cal Maritime who have Crossed the Final Bar, please visit WWW.CSUM.EDU/ALUMNI
Wayne is survived by his wife of 60 years, Gloria; sister JoAnn Ronning; his three children and their spouses, Bob (Susanne), Lori (David) Folland, and Lisa (Tim) and by his 6 grandchildren.
RICHARD J. ROZINSKI BOB REYNOLDS RICHARD W. VOHS
highway construction company, H and R Construction, which is now led by his son, Bob and grandson, Corey.
Richard Wentworth Vohs, 82, whose mari time career spanned 40 years navigating U.S. flag cargo ships, died April 17, 2022. He lived in Albany, CA.
Wayne E. 1939-2022Ronning, Wayne AprilonFalls,Ronning,Ellsworth82,ofFergusMN,passedawayEasterSunday,17,2022.Hewas born in Maddock, ND. After graduation, Ronning began working at Aero Jet General in Sacramento testing Titan missiles. After moving to Fergus Falls, Ronning worked as an engineer in the power production department for Otter Tail Power Company, and at Dieseth Specialty Company. In 1983, Ronning and his partner started their own Crossed the Final Bar
Survivors include his wife, Judy; daughters Jessica Vohs and Lucy Vohs Yearout; and granddaughters Zoey and Bailey. He is also survived by sister Victoria Corbell and by numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.CLASS OF 1964
JAMES R. LESSARD
WAYNE E. RONNING
38 SUMMER 2022 Cal Maritime | WWW.CSUM.EDU Alumni
CLASS OF 1961
James Lessard,Robert1932-2022
Richard had a passion for books and an insatiable thirst for knowledge, and he carried with him paper and a pen to write down questions or words he didn’t know. He also was an inveterate stamp collector, befriending philatelists around the globe.
Bob died on July 19, 2022. He had a great love of life, music, travel ing, biking, everything having to do with ships and the oceans, and dogs. He was proud of his alma mater, always glad to hear news from classmates, colleagues and the evolution of the Academy. Taking many classes over the decades, he worked for 30 years for Chevron, nearly 20 of them as Master, piloting his ships in many ports. He also supervised tankers as Manager of Safety, Environment and Standards, and Superintendent of fifty Masters and Chief Engineers. He spent the latter part of his career as Marine Expert Witness, Investigator, and Consultant on various marine projects. Born and raised in Monterey, CA, Bob and his French wife of 47 years, Sylvie, had a passion for exploring the world and differ ent cultures, collecting interesting artifacts along the way, the dogs always eagerly waiting for their return. They lived in Marin County for 45 happy years and moved back three years ago to Carmel.
Richard J. Rozinski, 1943-2021
After earning his 3rd mate license, Rozinski served his country in the Army in Germany. Following his service, Rozinski worked for 30 years for Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company in computer processing. He loved fishing, family, and watching sports, especially the 20/21 San Francisco Giants Rozinskiseason.issurvived by his wife of 52 years, Terri Rozinski; daughters Gina (Hal) McCutchan and Lorianne Burr, and three granddaughters, as well as his sister, Joanne Miller.
Wayne had a passion for the community of Fergus Falls. He was a founding member of the YMCA and Young Life, and also volun teered at Steven’s ministry, as a hospice vol unteer, and as an elder at Federated Church.
Michael enjoyed riding and maintaining motorcycles, and he was an avid scuba diver. For many years, he and his mother went diving in Mexico.
Crossed the Final Bar
Wayne E. Ronning
ANDFACULTYSTAFF
MICHAEL J. MAHER
RYAN KOZLOWSKI
James Wesley Burns, former Cal Maritime dean of sponsored projects and extended learning, died December 11, 2021, in Pacifica, CA. He was 63. After earning a doctorate from Northern Arizona University, James worked in higher education as a professor, dean of educa tion, dean of graduate programs, and dean of continuing education. He spent the last 15 years of his career in the California State University system, for which he oversaw mariner and pilot training programs along the West Coast, and internationally.
Michael Francis Daly
CLASS OF 1980 HelmutStephanBauer Stephan Helmut Bauer, 62, of Citrus Heights, CA passed away peacefully at home on October 29, 2021. After graduation Stephan served in the Naval Reserve. He also spent 39 years working for Military Sealift Command, ensuring that the Navy supply ships were in good repair. He spent 3 tours, a total of 12 years, in the Naples, Italy area where he explored many ancient Roman ruins and museums, indulg ing his passion for ancient history.
Stephan Helmut Bauer
MICHAEL F. DALY
James Wesley Burns
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Michael was stationed at Marine Corps Air Station El Toro, and he later became a flight instructor in Pensacola, FL. After graduating from Cal Maritime, he took part in the Military Sealift Command’s efforts to deliver military supplies to Kuwait in sup port of the Iraq War. Richard sailed for nearly 20 years and rose to the rank of second assistant engineer. He ultimately started his own real estate business, becoming a landlord and property manager. Michael is remembered for his passion for flying, sports, politics, business, and the Survivorsoutdoors.
STEPHAN H. BAUER
Richard Wentworth Vohs
Michael John Maher
Bob Reynolds
James Wesley Burns
Stephen is survived by his wife, Marilyn Bauer; son Andrew (Lindsey) Bauer; daugh ter Leslie Bauer; mother Christine Bauer; brother Martin (Judy) Bauer; sister Karen (Lare) Austen; and many nieces, nephews, and great nieces andCLASSnephews.OF 2001 Michael (Mike) Francis 1956-2022Daly, Michael Francis Daly, 65, a naval aviator before going on to earn a marine engineering degree in his 40s, died Feb. 14, 2022. He lived in Thousand Oaks, MichaelCA.was commissioned in the Marine Corps, where he received his wings in 1983. He flew CH-46 helicopters and rose to the rank of captain. He deployed to Southeast Asia, conducting training operations in the Philippines and Australia.
include his father, Frank Daly; wife Susan Laing; sons Shane and Kyle, and their mother, Elisa Dilabio; brothers John, Robert, Kevin and David; sisters Linda Daly, Carol Spelman, Karen Sewell, Marianne Marks, and Lora Daly; and many nieces and nephews.
Ryan Kozlowski
Richard J. Rozinski
JAMES W. BURNS
James Robert Lessard
Survivors include parents, Mark and Karen Maher, and Mike Burns; uncles Michael Johnson and Michael Maher; aunts Barbara Johnson, Ann Maher and Cheryl Maher; and cousins Hillary Pequeno, Shannon Chandler, Erin Beebe, Kristin Scott, Erika Parker, and Jason Maher.CLASS OF 2014 Ryan Kozlowski Ryan Kozlowski, 30, a commercial crab fisherman, died in an accident near Bodega Bay, CA. His body was retrieved from the waters of Point Reyes National Seashore on Feb. 25, 2022. He lived in Sonoma, CA.
James is remembered as a doting family man who would chat and laugh with loved ones into the early morning hours.
Survivors include his wife of 40 years, Suzanne; nieces Keturie and Kilmeny; and nephew Morgan.
CLASS OF 2008 Michael John Maher, 1970-2022 Michael John Maher, 51, an Army combat veteran who served in the Gulf War, died March 3, 2022. He lived in Oregon. Michael grew up in Portland, earning a marine transportation degree at Cal Maritime. He held a 3rd mate license.
Giving CAL MARITIME
allow us to improve our academic programs, provide scholarships to students, and acquire capital and equipment that allow Cal Maritime to offer the best education possible. Endowments provide an ongoing source of revenue for the university and can be created to support any campus project or program. With an initial $3,500,000 in matching funds available from Cal Maritime Academy Foundation’s successful Vessel Donation Program, there is flexibility to have an impact on the activity or program that motivates or excites you. The minimum gift to establish an endowment that will be matched is $25,000, but gifts at any level to an already-established endowment will be matched. Also, a donor can take up to 5 years to meet the $25,000 threshold. Your contribu tions to endowments can support almost any aspect of Cal Maritime life, from scholarships to athletics, endowed faculty positions, research opportunities and more. “Give to what you really care about,” encourages Ortega. Reach out to the Advancement team to learn more about the Endowment Matching Program and find out how you can get involved. Turn your excitement into real impact! Visit the Cal Maritime website or contact Janice Bross, Senior Director of Development and Campaign Manager at jbross@csum.edu or (707) 654-1789.
40 SUMMER 2022 Cal Maritime | WWW.CSUM.EDU
There’s no denying that Cal Maritime is a special place. With a strong foundation in maritime science, skills, and leadership, our graduates have gone on to make waves around the world. Thinking about how the Cal Maritime experience prepares such amazing individuals with such potential, it’s easy to get excited.
The Division of University Advancement wants you to know about a special endowment matching program that helps increase the reach of your gift. “My vision is that it will become an integral part of the University,” says Richard Ortega, Vice President of Advancement and Executive Director of the California Maritime Academy Foundation. The Division of University Advancement works to further the mission, vision and priorities of California State University Maritime Academy. Charitable gifts from alumni, friends, corporations and foundations ANNOUNCES ENDOWMENT MATCHING PROGRAM
What excites you about Cal Maritime?
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