Cal Maritime Magazine Fall 2022/Winter 2023

GOLDEN BEARD PREPARES TO TAKE A SWING AT CAL MARITIME’S ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT HELD SEPTEMBER 24 AT BLUE ROCK SPRINGS IN VALLEJO, CALIF.

Table of Contents

Cal Maritime’s Compass Leaderhip Team 16

Meet the cadets dedicated to moving the Cal Maritime community forward.

Keelhaulers on the Hill 12

Alumni Andrew Bichlemeier and Kamil Bahadar have built unique careers since graduation. Find out how they’ve moved from their Academy experience to helping shape our nation.

CSU Trustee Awardee 14

Standout Cadet Jeffrey Mueller receives CSU Trustee Jack McGrory Scholar Award.

Departments

On Morrow Cove 4

See what’s been happening on and around campus, from O-Week and KFam Weekend, hitting the links and discovering futures ashore, to sampling the Bay.

In Every Issue

From the Archives 2

From the President 3

Class Notes 28

Crossed the Final Bar 30

Q&A 8

Get to know Cal Maritime’s first female captain, Captain Samar Bannister.

Athletics 28

From defending the Kennedy Cup to earning a perfect NAIA Champions of Character Score, cadet-athletes lead the way.

ON THE COVER

CAL MARITIME’S COMPASS LEADERSHIP TEAM CHARTS THE COURSE TO A BRIGHTER FUTURE. MEET THE CADET LEADERS ON PAGE 16.

KEELHAULERS HANG ON TO THE KENNEDY CUP FOR THE FIFTH TIME IN SCHOOL HISTORY. READ MORE ABOUT THE REGATTA AND OTHER CADETATHLETE ACTIVITIES ON

From the Archives

Find out more by visiting the CSUM Library’s Hidden Histories Online Exhibit

From the President

Welcome to our Fall 2022/Winter 2023 magazine, in which we highlight Cal Maritime’s leadership at all levels. Not only is leadership development one of our four compass points, it is essential to our mission and everything we do as a leading institution in the maritime industry.

U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Grace Murray Hopper once said, “Leadership is a two-way street, loyalty up and loyalty down. Respect for one’s superiors; care for one’s crew.”

These are wise words from Rear Admiral Hopper, a pioneer who helped to develop the early computer, who invented the compiler that made highlevel computer languages possible, and who helped to define the design of COBOL, an early high-level programming language that is still in use today.

Cadet Leaders are the Future

President of the Council of Cadet-Athletes (CCA) Kyle Collins

Loyalty and leadership indeed go hand-in-hand. Only together can we ensure that Cal Maritime’s future remains bright.

I am a firm believer that Cal Maritime is a leading educational institution, nationally and internationally recognized for its dynamic curriculum in business, engineering, transportation, operations, and policy.

But we didn’t get here by ideation alone. We have a talented and incredible team of faculty and staff whose job it is to ensure that our cadets have the resources they need for success in a world riddled with problems, issues, and challenges.

As we are steadily seeing the ramifications and effects of inflation, supply chain issues, and international warfare, we realize that we are preparing our cadets for a new world. A world where they will undeniably be prepared to lead others through stormy seas and the unpredictable weather ahead. Their experiences at Cal Maritime are positioning them to be future-thinking leaders.

Our Compass of cadet leaders includes Corps Commander Alicia Porter, President of the Associated Students (ASCMA) Max Jones, Cadet Housing Director Maddy Dack, and

Each of these cadet leaders is a fitting example of just how confident I am that together we are serving a greater good to make impactful change at all levels of the maritime industry – both shoreside and at sea.

Current cadets and soon-to-be graduates are entering an industry with real-world demands. I am thankful to our crew of dedicated faculty and staff who every day are developing our cadets into maritime leaders both inside and outside the classroom.

Our Corps of Cadets remains a cut above your average student body. Our emphasis on cultivating critical thinking skills and ethics in our graduates has provided a vital inroad to more deeply defining effective leadership practices at Cal Maritime.

As we navigate this next course into a challenging future, our academy will continue to lead the way, from the top down and from the bottom up, preparing our future alumni for the world and preparing the world for our consistently amazing graduates.

Laborare Pugnare Parati Sumus. “To work, to fight, we are ready.”

PRESIDENT CROPPER PERSONALLY CAPPED SEVERAL CADETS THIS YEAR, WELCOMING THEM TO CAL MARITIME. PICTURED HERE WITH PRESIDENT CROPPER IS EVERETT PERKINS ‘26, A DIVISION 4M OCEANOGRAPHY MAJOR.

On Morrow Cove

Our marine engineering and marine transportation cadets have been busy this fall semester getting hands-on experience with major vessels at Mare Island Dry Dock in Vallejo, Calif. Through a partnership between Cal Maritime faculty, staff, alumni, and industry leaders, the M/V Wild Peony and USNS Pecos opened specifically for our deck and engine cadets, enabling them to participate in several small tours with each vessel’s senior officers.

Cadet Tours ROUNDUP

M/V WILD PEONY

Cal Maritime engineering cadets had the opportunity to witness the unique repair of the M/V Wild Peony, a refrigerated cargo ship that trades worldwide. The Wild Peony recently suffered a stern tube casualty after leaving New Zealand where she loaded a cargo of palletized kiwifruit and apples bound for Los Angeles.

After the ship’s crew was unable to effect repairs, tugboats were dispatched from Fiji and Taiwan, and the ship was under tow for approximately two months until she was able to berth in Los Angeles, Calif. Once there, she discharged her cargo and went to anchor while the owners located a drydock.

The ship owners were able to book space at Mare Island Dry Dock, but the ship had to wait at anchor in Los Angeles for about a month and a half before being towed to Vallejo.

While at Mare Island, cadets had the opportunity to witness the unusual repairs the ship is undergoing, including the removal of two intermediate shafts and the withdrawal of its propeller shaft. Once that is done, the stern tube bearing will be inspected and renewed before everything is put back together.

The tour provided an uncommon learning experience for Cal Maritime’s engineering cadets, especially since most of the officers on the Wild Peony are graduates of foreign maritime academies; likewise, the officers were able to interact with cadets from an American university and compare notes.

“You don’t see this kind of thing every day,” said Matthew Fenton, a 1982 Cal Maritime engineering alum who is leading efforts to help in the repair of the Wild Peony with Brookes Bell. “The master and I began the visit with a briefing about the vessel’s stern tube casualty, the actions taken to bring her to a port of refuge and now into repairs. I discussed the role of the various insurers and financial interests to provide the cadets with context.”

According to Fenton, cadets visited the engine room where they were able to view the machinery and the arrangements made for the removal of the intermediate propeller shafts, including rigging, and hull penetrations and repair; cadets also had the opportunity to view stern tube internals. The deck officers introduced cadets to the bridge, and the master led them into the cargo holds of the refrigerated cargo vessel and discussed the arrangements needed to successfully carry perishable cargo.

The group then proceeded into the drydock to discuss activities that normally accompany routine docking and coating, including propeller removal and fitting, rudder checks, and hull inspection. The tour concluded with a walk to the Lind Marine machine shop where the cadets were shown the damaged bearing and the new bearing that will be fitted after machining. Other aspects of the investigation and repair were also presented to the cadets.

“Captain Denis Afanasev and Chief Engineer Sergei Valutskiy and the other officers enjoyed the visit, and have been very complementary about Cal Maritime’s cadets,” said Fenton. “The friendship and hospitality the cadets presented, particularly at this difficult time between Russia and the United States, were both unexpected and appreciated. For my part, I was most favorably impressed with their professionalism and deportment. I found the cadets to be enthusiastic, attentive, and respectful, and I hope that the visit was useful.”

USNS PECOS

Cal Maritime deck and engineering cadets also had the opportunity to tour USNS Pecos (T-AO-197) on three separate occasions during the vessel’s time at Mare Island. USNS Pecos Officer in Command (OIC) Matt Sobey (Texas A&M, ’95) gave a tour of the deck and Third Officer Ryan McKeefery (SUNY, ’21) provided a bridge tour.

The tour of USNS Pecos was done in partnership with Military Sealift Command's Lieutenant Commander (LCDR) Craig Froehlich and OIC Sobey. Deck and engineering cadets took tours of the ship’s cargo deck, navigation bridge, cargo control rooms, underway replenishment stations, and vertical replenishment stations, in addition to the dry dock itself.

“These tours of USNS Pecos at Mare Island provide our deck and engineering cadets with a unique hands-on experience of some of the ships they will be working on in their future,” said Jordan Taylor, assistant professor of Marine Transportation at Cal Maritime. “Thank you to Captain Steve Browne and Captain Tamara Burback for supporting the coordination of getting the cadets over there.”

Learn more about the Department of Marine Transportation at CSUM.EDU/MARINE-TRANSPORTATION

Sampling the Bay Aboard R/V Questuary

A small cohort of Oceanography cadets and faculty climbed aboard the R/V Questuary in the wee hours of a chilly October morning.

The crew spent their day sampling near the Bay Bridge, Alameda, and points south in an effort to understand and characterize a large harmful algal bloom that occurred in San Francisco Bay this summer and early fall. The bloom dissipated by mid-September but killed thousands of fish, forcing shoreline cleanups, spreading unpleasant odor, and prompting scientists to further investigate the extent of the ecological damage.

“We received samples for our analysis from research collaborators during the bloom event and this cruise was a chance to characterize conditions absent of the bloom to compare with the bloom itself,” said Dr. Alexander Parker, professor and program coordinator for Cal Maritime’s Oceanography department.

Oceanography is Cal Maritime’s newest major, one in which cadets gain a theoretical background and practical skills in oceanography and are challenged to

OCEANOGRAPHY CADETS AND FACULTY RETURNING FROM THEIR SAMPLING TRIP ABOARD THE R/V QUESTUARY.

apply foundational knowledge using the scientific method through hands-on directed research experiences.

Cadets also have the opportunity to study abroad and gain a global perspective of ocean literacy and stewardship.

This Oceanography cruise aboard the R/V Questuary is just one of many experiences that Cal Maritime’s Golden Bear Research Center (GBRC) has made possible. The GBRC has partnered with San Francisco State University’s Estuary and Ocean Science Center (EOS) to take over operation of the R/V Questuary. The sampling work is also being supported by the

CSU Council on Ocean Affairs, Science, and Technology (COAST).

Because of this partnership, the R/V Questuary will serve as a platform for Cal Maritime’s Oceanography program as well as other Cal State University scientists and educators, and other external agencies, and will be one of the only active research vessels working in the San Francisco Estuary.

Prospective cadets and their families joined us on campus for Preview Day, a free, fun-filled, and exclusive open house for the community to learn more about our majors, career and travel opportunities, campus activities and clubs, the Corps of Cadets, and more.

Families had a chance to explore our 92-acre waterfront campus and tour Training Ship Golden Bear (TSGB), our residence halls, simulators, and the Physical Education and Aquatics Center (PEAC), as well as join meet-and-greets with President Thomas A. Cropper, Michele Van Hoeck, dean of Library and Learning Services, Karen Yoder, director of Athletics and Physical Education, TSGB Captain Samar Bannister, and other deans, faculty, and staff. We are currently accepting applications for all majors for the fall 2023 semester, and we’ll continue to host exciting tours, Cal State Apply application workshops, and other events for prospective cadets and families well into 2023. To learn more, contact our Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management and Director of Admissions Natalie K. Herring at admission@csum. edu or visit csum.edu/majors

Majors

Business Administration Global Studies and Maritime Affairs Marine Transportation Mechanical Engineering Facilities Engineering Technology Marine Engineering Technology Oceanography

with Interim Captain of TS Golden Bear Samar Bannister

California State University Maritime Academy has appointed Samar Bannister to serve as interim captain of Training Ship Golden Bear (TSGB). Not only is Captain Bannister Cal Maritime’s first female captain, she is a proud Cal Maritime alumna who brings with her an extensive career in marine transportation.

What’s it like being a woman working in a male-dominated industry? Have you faced any adversity? If so, how did you overcome it?

I came from a family who did not discriminate or favor either gender. You could either do the job or not. Everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses. That was the mentality I had when I arrived at Cal Maritime. With that said, I was very aware that I was entering an environment and industry that was male-dominated. I tried to make sure I was viewed as a member of the team. I stood out whether I wanted to or not. It was my job to prove to everyone that I was a valuable member of the team. My motto is to do the job. If you need help, ask and if someone else needs help, lend it. Keep it simple.

Tell us about your biggest accomplishment or proudest moment during your career so far.

My biggest accomplishment is becoming a mom. I left the deep-sea maritime industry to have a family and I’m very proud of being a mom and a wife. Regarding my maritime experience, I am proud of having

been captain of an efficient and safe crew who happily returned, trip after trip.

When you look back on your time as a student at Cal Maritime, what skills did you learn that you use now in your career?

Cal Maritime was such an exciting time for me. I came from a very small mountain town, Lake City, Colo., where we had around four students in my class until junior high, when we were bussed 55 miles one way to another town. When I walked on the Cal Maritime campus for my first tour, the fog was rolling in and you could hear the fog signals from the ships nearby, the energy from the students was intoxicating and it truly was a dream. My first year was challenging but I got into the groove. I was fortunate to be part of the Corps of Cadets and student leadership. The education I received and the leadership roles I undertook while at Cal Maritime formed me. The hands-on training and involvement with diverse students helped hone my leadership skills. I would say Cal Maritime opened my eyes to the possibilities of what was out there.

How do you feel education changed your life?

I think education broadens horizons and gives one the opportunity to find their right path and become financially independent. This was the case for me. Education and hard work opened doors.

Why did you choose to work at the Academy?

When a friend told me of the job possibil-

ity, it was as if my compass swung true. I thought this was an amazing opportunity to give back to Cal Maritime. One of the great benefits of this opportunity was being part of the CSU system. I so appreciate this great network of like-minded people who love education and are focused on where we’re going next. I feel very honored to be part of Cal Maritime.

What are some of the things you will be doing in your new role as Training Ship Golden Bear captain?

As the captain of any vessel, my responsibility is to ensure that the ship and crew are safe, that we abide by the rules and regulations of the maritime industry, and that we are efficient and reliable. It is my duty to foster a safe and enjoyable environment. This now includes the Corps of Cadets. This is a very unique and exciting endeavor.

What are your goals as captain of TSGB? What are you most excited about?

I am most excited to work with the cadets and the faculty in promoting and encouraging the cadets to enter the maritime industry. My goal is to ensure the Training Ship Golden Bear is up to the standard of what the industry expects. I want the cadets to depart well-educated and wellprepared for the outside world.

You have a young daughter. What does she think of you being the first female captain at Cal Maritime?

I know she is proud of me, and she talks about her mom being a captain but in her seven-year-old mind her attention is more on her mother being gone more than ever before, and unicorns and rainbows. My family and I have relocated so her whole world has been turned upside down. I hope in due course she will come to see the value in my hard work and perseverance.

Do you see yourself as a role model for other women?

I hope I can motivate anyone, regardless of gender, who is striving to go to the next level. I certainly did not get to where I am without the support and love from my family and friends. I also did not get here without the trailblazing women who endured greater hardships than I. So yes, I would hope to be seen as a role model. I work hard, try to treat everyone with respect and do the best that I can.

“Cal Maritime opened my eyes to the possibilities of what was out there.”

CAPTAIN SAMAR BANNISTER

O-Week + Capping Ceremony

Orientation leaders were front and center to welcome new cadets and their families to campus during O-Week. Led by our Director of Residence Life Lennon Prothro-Jones and Cadet Housing Director Maddy Dack, who is also a member of our Compass, the team helped cadets get settled.

The week ended with the capping ceremony, during which family mem bers placed Cal Maritime ball caps on the new class of cadets. A very special and emotional tradition on campus, the ceremony was led by Alicia Porter, Commander of the Corps of Cadets and a member of our Compass.

“This is the beginning of your entry into the Corps of Cadets and a lifelong affiliation with the entire Cal Maritime community. In its simplest form, capping is a ceremonial first donning of your Cal Maritime ball caps and your official welcoming into the Corps of Cadets,” said Porter.

Our Keelhaulers showed their school spirit this semester with a number of fun activities and themed days from Oct. 3 –7. On Monday, cadets, faculty, and staff wore their favorite Keelhauler spirit gear. In honor of October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, everyone was invited to wear pink on Tuesday. The campus community wore their favorite sports gear on Wednesday, tie-dye on Thursday, and cadets wore their salt and peppers on Friday. Our Associated Students (ASCMA) also hosted Club Rush on Thursday, which gave cadets an opportunity to sign up for campus clubs and organizations.

Cal Maritime! We kicked off the 2022 fall semester with exciting events across campus designed to get everyone into the spirit of a bright academic year.

Annual Golf Tournament

Over 100 players, sponsors, and campus partners came out to support cadet-athletes during our Annual Golf Tournament at Blue Rock Springs Golf Course in Vallejo, Calif. Participants mingled with head coaches and staff from the Department of Athletics. Our partners Blue Rock Springs and Mare Island Brewing Company provided food and drinks on a bright, sunny afternoon. The event concluded on campus in our Compass Room with a dinner and awards presentation. Thank you to our golfers whose generosity has helped create athletic and educational opportunities for cadet-athletes here at Cal Maritime!

KFAM WEEKEND

Families and friends traveled from near and far to attend Keelhauler Family (KFam) Weekend. Families toured Cal Maritime’s campus, met our faculty, climbed aboard our 500foot Training Ship Golden Bear, and most importantly, caught up with their cadets!

Futures Ashore Career Expo. This year’s Futures Ashore Career Expo saw an exponential turnout of vendors putting their best foot forward for our cadets. The sold-out event featured over 60 companies from across the maritime industry, turning what could have been a sleepy Friday morning on the Quad into a bustling setting where cadets were able to meet and greet company representatives. A unique recruitment event, our Career Expo provides an opportunity for cadets to meet industry leaders from the public, private, and non-profit sectors, and learn more about graduate school programs and opportunities. Interviews are also sometimes conducted on the spot.

ieutenant Andrew Bichlmeier graduated from Cal Maritime in 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in global studies and maritime affairs, and a Bachelor of Science degree in marine transportation with a minor in law.

Lt. Bichlmeier now works as a legislative fellow on Capitol Hill for Sen. Roger Wicker of Mississippi, where he advises on transportation, maritime, and Army Corps issues.

“Cal Maritime provided me the technical acumen to be a skilled mariner as well as the knowledge of domestic and international maritime policy to be a knowledgeable Hill staffer,” said Lt. Bichlmeier. “The small class sizes and personal relationships with staff and faculty allowed me to develop as a maritime professional.”

His path to the Hill wasn’t exactly straightforward. Since graduating from Cal Maritime, his career has been a whirlwind.

Lt. Bichlmeier was commissioned in the U.S. Coast Guard in December 2017 through the Direct Commission Maritime Academy Graduate Program (MARGRAD) and reported as a deck watch officer on board USCGC Waesche in January 2018.

He served as the assistant navigator, responsible for the ship’s movement, track lines, logs, publications, and navigation division. He also served as pursuit mission commander, boarding officer, and helicopter control officer.

Lt. Bichlmeier also sailed on Dependable, Stratton, Benjamin Bottoms, and Pike, conducting counter-narcotics patrols.

Most recently, he served as the commanding officer of USCGC Coho in New London, Conn. In this capacity, he oversaw a crew of 11 and conducted living marine resource protection; recreational boating safety; search and rescue; and ports, waterways, and coastal security patrols from Maine to Sandy Hook, N.J. As the sole operational unit on board the Coast Guard Academy, Coho is heavily involved with the Corps of Cadets, Officer

Candidate School, and Research and Development Center (RDC).

Lt. Bichlmeier was relieved in June 2022 and reported to Coast Guard Congressional Affairs (CG-0921), a pivot that helped land him on the Hill. In Sen. Wicker’s office, he works to improve roads, bridges, and ports in Mississippi. He also aids in legislation to support the Jones Act and supports the senator’s work with the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee and Energy and Public Works committees.

“Cal Maritime is a small school with a large impact,” said Lt. Bichlmeier. “Without a doubt, I would not have had the same career success from another school, and I want to do my best to represent the great work Cal Maritime grads are accomplishing in the world.”

By land and by sea, Keelhaulers are making major waves in the world, including on Capitol Hill.

amil Bahadar, a Department of Defense (DoD) Legislative Fellow for Congressman Jared Golden of Maine, graduated from Cal Maritime in 2015. Like his fellow Academy alum Lt. Andrew Bichlmeier, Bahadar’s journey to the Hill has been an adventure.

Bahadar was born in Pakistan. His father came to the United States in the 1990s, right after Bahadar was born, and saved up to bring his family over. The family settled in Lodi in the Central Valley, about an hour east of Vallejo, Calif.

“I hadn’t heard of Cal Maritime when I was young, but I ended up going to community college because I wanted to join the military,” said Bahadar. “I focused on engineering and science and during that time I knew I still wanted to be in the military. Through my counselor I found out about Cal Maritime and the bonus was that there was a mechanical engineering program, which is what I wanted to do. Another bonus was that Cal Maritime had a Navy ROTC with UC Berkley.”

Bahadar became a Cal Maritime cadet in 2011, majoring in mechanical engineering. After graduating in 2015, Bahadar went to

Navy flight school in Pensacola, Fla. and in 2016 started his helicopter training. In 2017, he graduated from flight school, earning his Wings of Gold. “Admiral Cropper and I, we have a similar trajectory: he was a jet pilot in the Navy and I’m a helicopter pilot in the Navy,” said Bahadar. “I remember meeting President Cropper in 2014: he was a pilot and I wanted to go to flight school, so I remember sitting down and talking with him about his experience flying in the Navy.”

Bahadar flew the MH-60S Seahawk helicopter from 2018 to 2021 in Norfolk, Va. before deciding he wanted a bigger perspective on how higherlevel decisions were made on defense policy, veterans’ policy, foreign policy, and foreign affairs. He applied for the DoD Fellowship and since January has been working for Rep. Golden’s office.

Bahadar credits Cal Maritime’s engineering program, faculty, and small school size for providing a solid foundation for his success in Navy flight school and now on the Hill.

“This is not a normal path for someone from Cal Maritime, or from any other maritime academy, but just understanding how the maritime industry works was very unique and gave me an upper hand as I moved through in the Navy,” said Bahadar.

“The fact that I went to Cal Maritime gave me the knowledge to really understand the policy issues that the country faces on the civilian side and the military side, and I just really enjoyed ...the mechanical engineering education I got and how available all the professors were to help me.”

Meet CSU Trustee Awardee Jeffrey Mueller

Jeffrey Mueller ’23 received the 2022 CSU Trustees’ Award for Outstanding Achievement. One of 23 recipients, Mueller received the Trustee Jack McGrory Scholar award. Mueller was born into a family that has made a living working on the ocean and he has followed in their sea-loving footsteps. After graduating high school in 2013, Jeffrey attended two different community colleges before enrolling in the Department of Marine Transportation (MT) in fall 2020. He is graduating in the summer of 2023 and has made the President’s List with a 3.95 GPA.

“About 10 years after graduating high school and battling through a corneal transplant that nearly kept me from pursuing my passion, I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel,” said Mueller. “When I was informed that I had been chosen as the recipient of the Trustee Jack McGrory Scholar Award, I was beyond speechless. This was especially a high note on my father’s side of the family since their work in the field of marine transportation has been conducted through the Navy, pilot boat operations, and even local sportfishing. They are beyond thrilled to see me carry on the tradition of working on the ocean, and this award has further emphasized their heartfelt support.”

Mueller has volunteered at community events, assisted with campus boat days, and served as a peer mentor. He was also an undergraduate senator in the Associated Students (ACSMA) and is now its vice president of finance.

After graduating, Jeffrey plans to work as a tugboat operator and has dreams of becoming a harbor pilot.

BELOW LEFT: JEFF’S PARENTS CHRIS AND BARBARA MUELLER ATTEND THE CSU TRUSTEES’ AWARD CEREMONY. FROM LEFT TO RIGHT ARE BARBARA MUELLER, JEFFREY MUELLER, PRESIDENT CROPPER, CHRIS MUELLER.

BELOW RIGHT: CRUISING IN STYLE WITH CAL MARITIME 2D CLASSMATES. FROM LEFT TO RIGHT ARE RYAN BEAN, CONNER RICE, JEFFREY MUELLER, TIMOTHY COLOMEY.

“If I was to highlight one key component over my past 10 years between high school and now, it would be my willingness to get involved with activities and leadership on campus,” said Mueller. “Time has flown by faster than I ever would have imagined, and it feels unreal that my time at Cal Maritime is coming to an end.”

The CSU Trustees’ Award is the university’s highest recognition of student achievement. Each award provides a donor-funded scholarship to students who demonstrate superior academic performance, personal accomplishments, community service, and inspirational goals for the future. The awardees have demonstrated a deep commitment to making a positive impact on their generation, as well as those who come after them.

Mueller and the other awardees were honored for their talent, diligence, and zeal during a ceremony as part of the CSU Board of Trustees meeting on Sept. 13.

“These 23 remarkable scholars wonderfully exemplify the ideals of the California State University,” said CSU Interim Chancellor Jolene Koester. “Their inspirational stories are connected by a common thread of intelligence, perseverance, resilience, and the transformative power of higher education. Our communities, state, and nation—indeed, our world—will long reap the benefits of their academic, professional and personal achievement.”

More than 420 students have been honored with the Trustees’ Award since the scholarship program was established in 1984 by the William Randolph Hearst Foundation. In 1999, the Hearst Foundation partnered with the CSU Board of Trustees to supplement the endowment with contributions from CSU Trustees, CSU Foundation board members, and private donors. The 23 scholarships awarded this year total more than $180,000. Each student scholarship bears the name of a donor.

“The college experience presents a great time for cadets to make memories and form lifelong friendships that will remain over time,” said Mueller. “My words of advice are don’t be afraid to challenge yourself by dreaming big, and in times of need consider reaching out to peers, friends, and even family. When continuing further, life isn’t always going to be easy, and you can’t always expect to have everything go right on the first try. However, putting your best foot forward will have you ahead of the game. Lastly, if your goals fall short, that doesn’t mean you should give up. One can only achieve mediocrity if they never aim high, so dream big and achieve greatness.”

Making an

THE COMPASS TAKES THE LEAD

THE COMPASS LEADERSHIP TEAM ON THE QUAD. FROM LEFT TO RIGHT ARE CADETS ALICIA PORTER, MADDY DACK, MAX JONES, AND KYLE COLLINS.

THE FOUR POINTS OF THE COMPASS symbolize the key elements of Cal Maritime’s commitment to educating and preparing our cadets for the future: intellectual learning, applied technology, leadership development, and global awareness.

Just as those four points help navigate our course toward our shared vision, our cadet leaders work every day to guide our campus community.

This year, we introduce our Compass Leadership Team, composed of four cadets, each with a unique perspective on cadet life and a range of experiences across a number of activities and organizations. While each cadet leader represents a different facet of Academy life — housing, athletics, student government, and the Corps of Cadets — they come together as a team to help move the campus forward in ways that benefit all.

The California State University’s emphasis on cultivating critical thinking skills and ethics in its graduates has provided a vital inroad to more deeply defining effective leadership practices at Cal Maritime.

But we are undoubtedly a unique institution of higher learning, and our cadets are a cut above the average student. We foster this rare university experience by providing cadets with worldclass maritime education and a distinct leadership advantage. A central component of our commitment to leadership is the Edwards Leadership Program. Sponsored by our gracious campus partners, Tom and Libby Edwards, the program provides cadets with a distinct advantage, both on campus and upon graduation as they enter their respective professions. Each aspect of the program contributes to the institution-wide learning outcomes of leadership and teamwork and offers opportunities to develop leadership skills, engage with external organizations such as the Center for Creative Leadership, and assess leadership at the group and individual levels.

This spring semester we will offer our signature seminar series, facilitated by faculty and staff and covering seven key topics of leadership. Cadets completing the seminar earn a Certificate in Leadership Studies from both Cal Maritime and the Center for Creative Leadership. The Edwards Leadership Program will also sponsor the Compass Leadership Team’s attendance at the U.S. Naval Academy Leadership Conference this January. Leadership on all levels is part of life at Cal Maritime and an expectation of every member of our community.

“It’s a community-based approach to the undergraduate experience,” said Commandant of Cadets David Taliaferro. “Cal Maritime promises not only an individual experience but one that provides cadets with the experience of being part of a community — and all of the benefits, challenges, and responsibilities that result from that.”

Community requires leadership, and great leadership requires the ability to evolve with the needs of the community and the realities of the greater world. Nothing holds truer to that notion than the Compass Leadership Team. Embodying our institution’s values of dedication, honor, integrity, respect, responsibility, and trust, these four cadet leaders not only help guide their peers but also help steer our faculty, staff, and administration in the right direction toward a brighter future for Cal Maritime.

Cal Maritime’s student body is known as the Corps of Cadets and has been the core of campus life since 1929. When Cal Maritime joined the California State University system in 1996, cadets formed a student government association, a familiar component of university life.

In the early 2000s, the residential life organization grew to serve the needs of cadets living on campus, developing a team of residential housing officers (RHOs).

The cadet leaders of the first three components became known as the Triad, and served to connect all cadets, providing support and guidance while strengthening the cadet community.

Alicia Porter Corps Commander

Global Studies and Maritime Affairs (GSMA) / 4M. Simi Valley, Calif.

each other succeed here, and it’s rare to find a cadet who hasn’t had some type of leadership experience on campus.”

Most recently, Athletics –known as a training ground for leaders at Cal Maritime and on university campuses across the nation – officially joined the fold. Most Cal Maritime cadets intersect with athletics in some important way, either participating in varsity or intramural sports or working out regularly at the Physical Education and Aquatics Center (PEAC).

Cal Maritime’s current Compass Leadership Team includes Corps Commander Alicia Porter, President of the Associated Students (ASCMA) Max Jones, Cadet Housing Director Maddy Dack, and President of the Council of Cadet-Athletes (CCA) Kyle Collins.

As Taliaferro says, “leadership is a social endeavor, not something done in a vacuum.” The Compass is a perfect illustration of this. Whether they gather to discuss challenges cadets are facing or to help coordinate cadet involvement in campus events, the Compass meets regularly, serving as a bridge between our student body, and faculty, staff, and administration.

Alicia Porter Corps Commander

“Anybody can be a student, but not everybody can be a cadet,” said Porter.

There are a host of opportunities to be a leader at Cal Maritime, whether in an official capacity or by simply being an individual others look to for guidance. “Leadership is woven into life at Cal Maritime,” said Porter. “We want to see

That desire to help one another succeed is something Porter has put into action across several parts of campus life: she has served on the ASCMA and CCA and is a second-year captain of the women’s basketball team. Most recently, she was named the Cal Pac Player of the Week by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) for the second time in her Cal Maritime career.

This year, Porter serves as Cal Maritime’s Corps Commander. “I’m really happy to see where the Corps of Cadets is now,” said Porter. “I really like being that shoulder to lean on for my peers.”

Porter identifies as a servant-leader and believes this is a good fit for the Corps Commander role. “I’m not going to ask my team to do something that I wouldn’t do. I’m going to make sure that things are running smoothly on my side, so their experience is better.”

Part of learning how to be a leader is learning how to work as a team. To Porter, the Compass begins with an agreement to unite to build a better Cal Maritime. Having this type of organization on campus is beneficial, and not something that other campuses have.

Porter plans to enter the Air Force after graduation. Recognizing that a truth of her experience at Cal Maritime is that you get out of it what you put in, Porter feels that her experience at Cal Maritime gives her an edge.

“If you put in a lot of time and a lot of effort to be a part of that leadership, to be a part of growth and change at Cal Maritime,

you’re going to get a lot out of it,” said Porter. This means greater skills in communicating and cultivating teamwork as well as networking opportunities.

Max Jones

President of Associated Students (ASCMA)

While his position is equivalent to a student body president at other universities, Max Jones believes that Cal Maritime is different.

“Having the Compass allows more people to be involved, and allows more people to cast an opinion on matters on which we need student opinion… We each have our own organization to represent at the Compass,” said Jones.

With over 100 cadets taking on some sort of official leadership role, Jones sees a clear difference at Cal Maritime. Whether in Athletics, Community Engagement, Peer Health Coordination, or the Edwards Leadership Program, there’s no shortage of forums for cadets to share their ideas of communication, leadership, and teamwork, an active exchange that enables them to learn from one another.

The education cadets receive sets them apart from their peers because of the plethora of leadership opportunities and hands-on experiences. Exposure through classroom learning, field experiences, and simulators delivers the opportunities cadets need to develop skills and broaden

President of

Max Jones

Students (ASCMA)

Mechanical

their experiences to increase their ability to take on even greater challenges beyond graduation.

Time management and prioritization are skills that can be applied anywhere, and the ability to quickly analyze, assess and act is critical to success within the maritime industry.

“When you graduate, and you walk on to your first ship, are you walking on as the third engineer, or are you walking on as the third engineer in training? You need to be walking on as the third engineer, proficient in that role. You need to have the

training and be proficient, and be able to think on your feet,” said Jones.

Participating in a leadership role on campus adds another layer to a cadet’s skills.

From the rigorous curriculum to watch duties to licensure track credits, time management and prioritization are critical to success. “Leadership opportunities are extra,” said Jones.

Cal Maritime is not a traditional university experience. Because of its uniqueness, employers often consider a graduate’s time at Cal Maritime as work experience. “It’s a lot more like job training,” said Jones. “Most people have jobs lined up when they graduate.”

(For an example of the unique Cal Maritime experience, read about the M/V Wild Peony tour on Page 4.)

with Residence Life coordinators and Director of Residence Life Lennon Prothro-Jones.

Her style of leadership focuses on being a positive example and setting the tone for her peers. An award-winning goalkeeper and senior member of the women’s soccer team, Dack notes that different styles of leadership are a better fit for different circumstances. On the field, she may focus on cultivating positive energy and getting more people involved.

In her role as housing director,

Maddy Dack

Mechanical

Maddy Dack Cadet Housing Director

“The cadet mindset is different,” said Dack. “You have to be more active, you have to be more involved. And that encourages you to get more into leadership.”

According to Dack, everyone at Cal Maritime has a “let’s get it done, let’s make this place better” mindset — that goes for academics, leadership, or any campus organization someone wants to get into.

In her work as cadet housing director, Dack sees herself as a bridge between cadets and administration, working closely

she focuses more on getting involved herself, connecting with as many people as possible, to help make communication the best it can be.

“On the field, it’s a little different,” said Dack. “I can step up in a more physical sense, physically lifting people off the ground.”

Before becoming part of the Compass, Dack held leadership roles across campus, serving on the CCA and participat-

Associated

Engineering (ME), Licensed / 1E. Livermore, Calif.

Cadet Housing Director

Engineering (ME), Licensed / 4E. Fullerton, Calif.

ing in a variety of other clubs. Dack was a residence hall officer (RHO) on board the Training Ship Golden Bear during COVID-19, an environment that required her to be more creative to reach out to students to make them feel less secluded and alone but still healthy. How did she do it? By making connections and building community.

“We often would do something outside that wasn’t too taxing like stargazing, writing thank-you notes for another group on campus, and enjoying free food,” said Dack.

She created all these connections at a critical time, and on top of her mechanical engineering classes. Dack has long wanted to be a mechanical engineer, and Cal Maritime is providing her with the opportunity to become more well-rounded.

“I love that everything is hands-on,” said Dack. “It requires stepping out of your comfort zone and getting real experience that teaches you different traits and qualities that you may not get in a summer or online class.” She describes opportunities like simulation classes, during which cadets take turns stepping up to be the leader for a day, and summer cruise, which Dack describes as “a big, real-life experience that you don’t get at other universities.”

A proven community-builder herself, the Cal Maritime community has helped Dack as she learns alongside her friends both in the classroom and in the field.

Kyle Collins President Council of Cadet Athletes

Major/Division: Marine Transportation (MT) / 2D. San Pedro, Calif.

commanding officer this year. A member of Cal Maritime’s award-winning sailing team, Collins is team captain and skipper of both the Offshore and Dinghy Sailing teams.

“The leadership positions have made my time at Cal Maritime quite busy but the lessons I have learned have been invaluable,” said Collins. “I have enjoyed the opportunity to step up to the plate and help other cadets while working to hone my leadership skills.”

Though Collins’ leadership experience encompasses a range of environments, he says that listening is key. “The style of leadership that is most comfortable to me is to spend more time listening and understanding what others have to say,” said Collins. “I have found that this works in most of the positions that I have had, and people are more willing to speak and share their ideas.”

As a transfer student, Collins notes that the Cal Maritime experience is completely different from that of a traditional university experience.

Kyle Collins

President Council of Cadet Athletes

“I believe that anybody on campus has the power to have an effect on the Cal Maritime community if they want to,” said Collins.

Athletes make up over a third of the campus population and cadets that are not athletes are often involved in intramural sports or use the facilities at the PEAC. As president of the Council of Cadet-Athletes, Collins’ job is to bring a voice to all of those cadets and represent Cal Maritime’s athletics teams in any of the decisions that are made.

Of the Compass, Collins said, “We are able to work together to bounce ideas off of each other and solve problems often before they even arise.”

Like his fellow Compass leaders, Collins has taken on leadership roles across campus, serving as squad leader, academic officer, and platoon leader within the Strategic Sealift Midshipman Program (SSMP), the detachment of which he is the

“Class, homework, and exams are everything for traditional students, and that is just the start for cadets,” said Collins.

“There is far more that is expected of cadets. My favorite part about that though is that all of those things help bring cadets together as a family. Everyone is so driven and focused towards such a similar end goal and having the opportunity to live, travel, study, and work together through all of that brings everybody so close together.”

The cadet leaders in our Compass, in addition to the many cadets answering the call to leadership around Cal Maritime’s campus, continue to make our institution a special and unique place. The leadership skills we instill in our cadets at Cal Maritime are informed by the action-oriented, real-world demands of the maritime industry. By making an impact, respecting chain of command, and honoring tradition, our cadets are navigating their course into the future.

Proud sponsor of Cal Maritime

Since 2014…

The Edwards Leadership Program provides cadets with a distinct leadership advantage while on campus and as they enter their respective professions.

Cal Maritime successfully defends Kennedy Cup championship

Cal Maritime dominated at this year’s Kennedy Cup, hosted by the U.S. Naval Academy Nov. 5-6 at the Robert Crown Sailing Center in Annapolis, Md. The Keelhaulers finished within the top three in all but one of the seven races in the regatta. Once it captured the first of four straight bullets in the third race, Cal Maritime remained in first place. Tied for first place with the U.S. Coast Guard after the first day of racing, Cal Maritime returned to the water on Sunday and showed why it is one of the premier programs in the nation. Cal Maritime’s

sailing team earned bullets in two of three races to successfully defend its Kennedy Cup title and capture the John F. Kennedy trophy for the fifth time in school history. This is the first time a team has repeated as Kennedy Cup champion since South Florida in 2016 and 2017. Since 1965, only five schools have accomplished this. Including a pair of first-place results in the final two races on Saturday, Cal Maritime recorded four straight bullets to finish with 14 team points — nine fewer than event host Navy, who ended the weekend in second place.

President Cropper Visits Cal Pac’s Student-Athlete Council Summit

Seminars led by Cal Maritime President Thomas A. Cropper, Director of Athletics and Physical Education Karen Lee Yoder, and Assistant Director of Athletics for Sport Performance Jeff Ward were highlights of the California Pacific (Cal Pac) Conference’s annual Student-Athlete Council (SAC) Summit.

Hosted by Cal Maritime Athletics, this year’s event was the first to take place in person following last year’s virtual setting due to COVID-19. Ten of the Cal Pac’s 13 institutions made the trip to Vallejo to participate in this year’s Summit, organized by Conference Commissioner Dr. Don Ott.

“Cal Maritime is proud and grateful to host this year’s Student-Athlete Council Summit,” said Yoder. “It truly is an honor to host this group of leaders who are committed to strengthening the student-athlete experience for everyone in the Cal Pac Conference.”

Cal Maritime and the Cal Pac Conference thanks women’s basketball cadet-athlete Kai Kraus for her hard work and dedication throughout this year’s Summit. As the event’s on-site student representative, Kraus played an integral role in the daily execution of the conference.

“Honestly, sitting in the meeting room with these amazing men and women refreshes me more than I thought I needed,” said Dr. Ott. “The way they came together as a unified, focused group in such a short time frame was incredible, and their thoughts, passion, confidence, and connection were a perfect way to start this next year. Our SAC is in great hands, and our conference will really benefit from this group of leaders.”

This three-day event opened with sessions highlighting Cal Pac’s organizational structure and governance before shifting focus to the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics’ (NAIA) Champions of Character program. The following day, Yoder shared a presentation centered on Title IX, followed by President Cropper’s interactive and insightful conversation on leadership that highlighted

the impact of finding one’s voice, living shared values and teaching others to model them. The former Navy fighter pilot and current chair of the league’s President’s Council wove data from national studies with personal experiences and lessons learned throughout his career to illustrate how representatives from Cal Pac institutions can reach their potential as leaders while strengthening their peers’ skills.

Following an open and honest discussion regarding mental health and challenges faced by studentathletes balancing rigorous academic and athletic schedules, Ward spearheaded additional conversations among the students in attendance, leading to numerous proposals for consideration by the league’s administrative council.

Later that day, the group created a condensed version of last year’s Cal Pac Student-Athlete Values Statement, a reminder read by student-athletes from each team prior to the start of competition for fans, coaches, administrators and staff in attendance that incorporates the NAIA’s five core values: integrity, respect, responsibility, servant leadership, and sportsmanship.

Before heading home, the group conducted its first formal Student-Athlete Council meeting of the year, selecting officers and the management team for the 2022-2023 academic year.

Moving forward, student-athletes from the league’s 13 institutions and their leadership groups will meet monthly to share information and input from their peers with Cal Pac’s committee of school presidents, Director’s Council, and Coaches’ Group.

“This is a group that understands how they can make an impact nationally,” said Dr. Ott. “The NAIA has tapped into the Cal Pac’s Student-Athlete Council a couple of times and implemented various proposals nationwide. Allowing this group to share its vision, and shape national policy, is a really big deal.”

New School Records Set Athletics and Physical Education Department Earns Team Impact Award

Seven Cal Maritime teams and 14 cadet-athletes were recently recognized for earning NAIA academic honors. NAIA National Awards Day recognizes the highest individual honors and achievements of NAIA student-athletes, administrators and coaches.

Both NAIA academic award totals are the highest in school history. To qualify for Scholar-Athlete recognition, cadet-athletes need to achieve junior academic status and possess a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale.

NAIA Scholar Team Recipients

Women’s Cross Country – 3.39 GPA

Women’s Golf – 3.28 GPA Men’s Golf – 3.21 GPA

Women’s Soccer – 3.16 GPA

Men’s Cross Country – 3.07 GPA

Women’s Basketball – 3.07 GPA

Men’s Soccer – 3.03 GPA

NAIA Daktronics Scholar-Athletes

Sarai Alonso – Women’s Cross Country

Nora Anastasi – Women’s Cross Country

Jake Banich – Men’s Golf

MacKenzie Finck – Women’s Basketball

Noelle Kopping – Women’s Soccer

Zach McWilliams – Men’s Golf

Margaret Malmquist-West – Women’s Soccer

Will Megorden – Men’s Golf

Luke Morris – Men’s Golf

Alicia Porter – Women’s Basketball

Natalie So – Women’s Golf

Parker Wight – Men’s Basketball

Nathan Witte – Men’s Soccer

Reid Zieber – Men’s Cross Country

The Department of Athletics and Physical Education recently received one of Cal Maritime’s prestigious honors. The Keelhauler Recognition Award recognizes and celebrates the outstanding work and performance of employees who consistently motivate, inspire, lead, educate and succeed as an individual or team. Announced at Convocation during Orientation Week, the Athletics and Physical Education Department earned the Team Impact Award for the 2021-22 academic year.

“I am proud of the hard work and dedication shown by everyone within the department last year to enhance cadets’ undergraduate experience,” said Director of Athletics and Physical Education Karen Lee Yoder. “All of the nominated departments play a key role in strengthening the Cal Maritime community, being part of that group is an honor in itself.”

Yoder added, “I am grateful to work with a team of coaches, staff members, and administrators who are passionate about Cal Maritime, its cadets, and showcasing why this is the top-ranked university in the West.”

The Team Impact Award recognizes the outstanding collaboration and performance of a cross-functional team that went above and beyond normal service and scope, whose work sustained Cal Maritime’s mission and strengthened the campus community.

Additional award-specific criteria included a commitment to diversity and contributions that improved cadet success, exceptional campus-wide communication and collaboration, and a demonstrated contribution to the overall health, safety, and work environment of the campus community.

Cal Maritime Earns Perfect Champions of Character Score

When the NAIA announced the Champions of Character award recipients for the 202122 academic year, only 28 of 250 institutions across the nation received a perfect score. In that group, the only athletics department in California — as well as the only California Pacific Conference member — was Cal Maritime.

A total of 157 schools earned one of three Champions of Character awards based on their commitment to the Champions of Character program.

For the second straight year, NAIA officials bestowed the highest possible honor — Five-Star Gold Status — to the Keelhaulers.

Cal Maritime was one of only 10 schools in the nation to post a perfect score in consecutive years.

The Champions of Character program helps participants find and maintain a healthy balance by keeping five core values — integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership — at the heart of their athletics experience. “This award is a testament to the dedication of our cadet-athletes, coaches and

staff to integrate the pillars of the NAIA’s Champions of Character program, with Cal Maritime’s values, into the classroom, community and competition,” said Director of Athletics and Physical Education Karen Lee Yoder

Based on its philosophy of providing character-driven athletic opportunities and activities to student-athletes, the NAIA’s Champions of Character program and its annual scorecard measure institutions’ commitment to academic focus, conduct in competition, character training, promotion and recognition. Institutions earn additional points for exceptional studentathlete GPAs and earning minimal-to-no ejections during competition throughout the course of an academic year.

“Cal Maritime is proud to earn Five-Star Gold honors for the second straight season because it highlights our hard work in creating a culture of character-driven athletics,” said Head Men’s Basketball Coach Tim Bross, the Keelhaulers’ Champions of Character liaison.

the Keelhaulers’ 15 inter collegiate athletic teams, highlights from the 2021-22 campaign include:

Women’s Golf’s inaugural season of competition, which took place during Title IX’s 50th anniversary Camp Keelhauler, Cal Maritime’s inaugural youth allsports summer camp

Cal Maritime’s inaugural Cadet-Athlete Orientation provided an opportunity for cadetathletes to meet peers, coaches and administrators who play a key role in shaping their undergraduate experience

A partnership with Return On Inclusion, a diversity and inclusion education program for college athletic departments and other sport-related organizations

Teaming with Dr. Ross Flowers, an experienced clinical psychologist, sports and performance psychologist and executive coach who provided effective mental health and performance psychology practices for athletes, coaches and staff

United Soccer Coaches Bestow Team Academic Award on Men’s and Women’s Soccer

For their success throughout the 2021-2022 academic year, Cal Maritime’s men’s and women’s soccer teams each earned the Team Academic Award from United Soccer Coaches. This organization recognized both Keelhauler soccer programs for their outstanding performance in the classroom, each posting a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher.

Cal Maritime was one of only 162 schools across the nation, at all collegiate levels (Division I, II, III, NAIA), to earn distinction for both intercollegiate teams.

Alumni

THE CLASS OF 1972 WAS HAPPY TO CONNECT WITH CLASSMATES AND CELEBRATE THEIR 50TH REUNION.

PRESIDENT CROPPER CELEBRATES WITH JERRY ASPLAND ’62, DAVID SUTHERLAND ’62, AND SUZANNE BAILEY.

Our 2022 Alumni Reunion Weekend was a great success and saw multiple classes across Cal Maritime’s long and storied history come together in celebration. Alumni returned to their stomping grounds to enjoy activities around campus and dinners with President Thomas A. Cropper. This year’s theme was “Coming Home,” and alumni did just that as they gathered at Mare Island Coal Shed Brewery for a reunion weekend kick-off. The class of 1972 celebrated their 50th reunion, and the class of 1962 celebrated their 60th reunion with a Golden Keelhauler Dinner in the Compass Room. The weekend concluded with a “Block Party” on Upper Campus featuring a reception in President Cropper’s backyard and dinner in the Felton House backyard.

SIXTY YEARS AND COUNTING!

THE CLASS OF 1962 CELEBRATED THEIR 60TH REUNION WITH A GOLDEN KEELHAULER DINNER IN THE COMPASS ROOM.

Class Notes

CLASS OF Cal Maritime President Thomas A. Cropper joined alums Bill Andrew ’78 and Minh Venator ’89 at this year’s Reno Air Races.

’ 78

Jacobsen Pilot Services in Long Beach, Calif.

Art Koral is an aerobatic instructor at his business Art of Flight. He is also an airline captain at Atlas Air.

’ 93

CLASS OF Madeline Schmid ’24, the daughter of Jennifer Ferrera Schmid, is currently attending Cal Maritime. She just completed her commercial cruise with Chevron.

Paul Seitz works in digital solutions. He’s currently working and living in Latvia, a country in the Baltic region of Northern Europe, and is setting up his business named Skaal, that supports U.S. clients.

Carl Obermeier works for Foss Maritime in Portland, Ore. His twin sons are first-year engineering majors at Oregon State University.

Michelle Giannetti Meyer lives in Philadelphia, Pa. and is a chief commercial officer for PSA Philadelphia Terminals. With two children in college and one senior in high school, she will be an empty nester soon.

Who drives ships? Lawrence Hoyne drives ships…with

If you need real estate services, Eric Hoglund would love to help you. He is a broker and owner of Estey Real Estate and Property Management in Benicia. He has a daughter at Boise State, a son at Benicia High School, and another son at Benicia Middle School. Eric can connect you with real estate professionals no matter what state you live in.

RACHAEL (ASBELL, ’19) AND SVANTE NILSSON

CARLY AND CHRIS MURRAY (’19).

Jerry Gordon lives in Philadelphia, Pa. and is the Global Procurement Leader at Quaker Houghton. He is married and has a daughter who is a junior in high school and a son in the 8th grade.

’ 19

CLASS OF In her last year of law school, Rachael (Asbell) Nilsson is interning at the Office of the Denver District Attorney and is hoping to become a prosecutor upon graduation. Rachael married Svante Nilsson last July. They met in Uppsala, Sweden where Rachael was studying abroad during her junior year at Cal Maritime. The couple share a cat named Max.

Congratulations to Chris Murray who married his partner, Carly, on Dec. 10.

PRESIDENT CROPPER WITH MINH VENATOR ’89

CAL MARITIME ALUMNI ATTENDED A FOURTH THURSDAY AT LUCY’S IN NEW ORLEANS AFTER THE INTERNATIONAL WORKBOAT SHOW IN NOVEMBER.

PUGET SOUND ALUMNI ENJOY A CHAPTER DINNER IN SEATTLE IN NOVEMBER. ABOVE, LEFT TO RIGHT ARE DAVID FULTON (’02), LIZ WAITE, KEVIN MEHRER (’09), ALESI ALAPA (’10), PHIL TORRANO (’10), MICHELLE CALLISON, DAVID CALLISON (’10). BELOW, LEFT TO RIGHT ARE TREVOR BROWN (’20), KARINA MARTIJA-HARRIS (’20), DANIEL LASRY, EMILY KEYES (’14), RACHEL NEUHARTH (’14), SARAH JANE BUNCH, JESSICA REEVES-CLARK

Crossed the Final Bar

CLASS OF 1944

William Leland Sales, Sr. 1924-2022

William Leland Sales, Sr., 98, of Kennewick, Wash. passed away on July 22 at Fleurde-Lis Adult Family Home in Kennewick. A retired nuclear engineer, he was born in Riverside, Calif. and lived in the Tri-Cities for many years.

CLASS OF 1945

Marvin R. Tripp 1926-2022

Marvin Russell Tripp, 96, passed away on Aug. 30. A lifelong Californian, he attended Oakland Technical High School and received a Third Assistant Engineer license from Cal Maritime and a Bachelor of Arts degree in music from the University of the Pacific. A military veteran, he served in the Merchant Marine at the close of World War II.

Classmates may recall Marv’s swab assignment of singing “The Lord’s Prayer” through the barrack transom at lights out. Marv sailed briefly and then pursued a music education at the College of the Pacific. After graduating, Marv sang on television in Hollywood, at the Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas, Nev., and on television in San Francisco, Calif. With marriage and children, he elected to make music an avocation and became an educator as a teacher and principal. As a weekend musician, Marv led his dance band in various hotels and country clubs throughout the Bay Area. In later years he took his talent to the Bohemian Club in San Francisco.

Marv is preceded in death by his parents John and Mae Tripp, his sister Joan Hough, his wife Jeanette, and his great-grandson Joshua. He is survived by his sister Beverly

Montgomery, his children Cynthia Tripp, Tom Tripp, and Steven Tripp, eight grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren.

CLASS OF 1953

Joseph Venturini 1930-2022

Joseph Venturini, 92, passed away on Sept. 12. Born in Modesto, Calif., Joe attended both high school and junior college in his hometown. Wanting

to see a wider world, Joe attended the Academy, where he studied as a deck midshipman and served as a company commander.

As a naval officer, Joe served in the amphibious force aboard the USS Pickaway as an underway watch officer and as a salvage officer during amphibious landings. Upon discharge, Joe returned to Modesto and began farming. He joined the U.S. Naval Reserve, eventually becoming a district group commander.

Joe was preceded in death by his wife, Diane. He is survived by his sons Joe L. and Mark Venturini.

CLASS OF 1954

John W. Creech, Jr. 1929-2022

John W. Creech, Jr., 93, passed away on July 12. He was a graduate of Berkeley High School and the University of California Berkeley as well as the Academy.

After graduating from the Academy, he joined the Merchant Marine, then served in the U.S. Navy on the USS Los Angeles during the Korean War.

John’s business career took him from delivering RC Cola in Southern California to selling glass containers at Glass Container Corp, to LSI as its first employee, then president of its specialty productions division. John later founded Sigma Marketing Consulting.

His volunteer work included Mercy Ships, Orinda Community Church, and serving as board chairman of the California Maritime Academy Foundation (CMAF).

CLASS OF 1957

Robert Alan Wilson

1936-2022

Robert Alan Wilson, 85, passed away peacefully on June 11 with his family surrounding him. Also known as “Captain Bob,” he was born in Akron, Ohio and moved to California with his family at age 7. A member of the Sea Scouts, Bob graduated from Morningside High School in Inglewood, Calif., and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Nautical Science from the Academy. He then earned his Master Captain’s license from the U.S. Coast Guard and became one of the youngest and most well-respected Merchant Marine captains of his time. He served as captain of research vessels, including the Glomar Challenger and the Alcoa Seaprobe, as well as container ships covering oceans and seas worldwide. After retirement, Bob lived aboard his 40-foot DeFever boat named MALIA off the waters of Mexico and Puerto Vallarta.

Bob is survived by his two sisters, his ex-wife Joan, daughter Julie, son Jeff, six grandchildren, and one great-grandson.

CLASS OF 1959

Richard Meleski 1938-2022

Richard Meleski, 83, passed away on July 9 at his home in Vallejo, Calif. Born and raised in Vallejo, Richard graduated from Vallejo High School. The night he received his degree from Cal Maritime, he was on a ship to Japan.

Richard was employed by Matson Navigation for 40 years. While working there, he joined their whaleboat crew, which won first place for 15 years.

Meleski is survived by his wife Caron and three children.

MARVIN R. TRIPP

JOHN W. CREECH, JR.

RICHARD MELESKI

JOSEPH VENTURINI

CLASS OF 1962

Larry Lee Foerder

1941-2022

Larry Lee Foerder, 80, passed away on Aug. 21, after a three-year battle with cancer.

Born in Auburn, Ind., Larry and his family moved to Vallejo, Calif. when he was less than a year old. After graduating from Vallejo High School, Larry graduated from the Academy and secured a job as an engineer for Phillips 66, working both in Washington and California. His career included work for Airco and NorCal Dry Ice, both in Richmond, Calif.

Larry is survived by his wife of 31 years Barbara; his children Jennifer, Mike and Mark; his stepchildren Mark, DeeAnne and Renay; 14 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

CLASS OF 1965

1943-2022

Raymond Guy Jubitz III, 78, passed away peacefully at home on May 17, surrounded by close family members and friends. Born in Seattle, Wash., Ray attended Ainsworth Grade School. Moving to San Francisco, Calif., he attended Lowell High School, the University of Oregon, and Cal Maritime.

Ray worked as a ship engineer for a year, then moved to Ann Arbor, Mich. to pursue an MBA at the University of Michigan. He served as an engineer on naval Victory ships transporting supplies to American troops in Vietnam, launched his management career with shipping companies in

Seattle, Wash. and San Francisco, Calif., and in Portland, Ore. where he was managing director of Columbia Marine Lines.

Ray and his wife, Nansie, were involved with the Creative Initiative and Beyond War Foundations, and were volunteers with International Executive Service Corps.

Ray is survived by his wife Nansie, sister Kathy, cousins, eight nieces and nephews, and five godchildren.

CLASS OF 1972

Theodore “Ted” Cook

Upon graduation in July of 1972, Theodore “Ted” Cook started his 40-plus year career with the Military Sealift Command (MSC), working his way up from third assistant engineer to chief engineer. Initially home ported in Subic Bay in the Philippines, Ted fell in love with the Philippines and met the love of his life, Ida. Ted and Ida married and built a beautiful house on the island of Luzon, where they raised their five children.

Ted sailed the world for MSC and ended his career as a Port Engineer in Guam. Ted passed away in 2017 and is survived by his wife Ida; sons Thomas, Theo, and Kenneth; daughters Karen and Michelle; and nine grandchildren.

David W. Linn

Dave Linn was a native of Seal Beach, Calif. where he excelled in swimming and water polo in high school. An excellent sailor, he was an avid member and captain of the Sailing Club his senior year. Upon graduation in July of 1972, Dave continued his education and received an MBA from Pepperdine University in Southern California. He spent much of his career as a regional manager for Sulzer Pumps in Houston, Texas. Dave passed away in 2019 at his home in Lookout Mountain, Tenn. He is survived by his wife Carol, son Eric, and daughter Amy.

CLASS OF 1975

Dennis C. Payne

Dennis C. Payne died in his sleep on Sept. 12, after a 10-year battle with mesothelioma. Dennis worked as a Perkins mechanic before attending the Academy. He was very proud to be a graduate of Cal Maritime, and proud of his lifelong Cal Maritime friendships. Dennis is survived by his son Sam, daughter Emily, and his wife Sue.

CLASS OF 2003

Johannes Phipps 1980-2022

Johannes Phipps, 42, passed away on July 3, after a long and debilitating illness. A quick-witted and gregarious man, Johannes was born in Martinez, Calif. and grew up both in Germany and California. After graduating from the Academy, he shipped out as a third mate, and later a second mate with the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P).

Johannes loved to travel, watch scary movies, and eat delicious Austrian food prepared by his mother. He is survived by his daughter Eliana, his parents, brother, nephew, wife, grandparents, and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Crossed the Final Bar

William Leland Sales, Sr. ’44

Marvin R. Tripp ’45

Joseph Venturini ’53

John W. Creech, Jr. ’54

Robert Alan Wilson ’57

Richard Meleski ’59

Larry Lee Foerder ’62

Raymond Guy Jubitz III ’65

To submit information about Alumni and Friends of Cal Maritime who have Crossed the Final Bar, please visit WWW.CSUM.EDU/ALUMNI

Robert M. Butler, Jr. ’72

Theodore “Ted” Cook ’72

David W. Linn ’72

Dennis C. Payne ’75

Johannes Phipps ’03

Raymond Guy Jubitz III

RAYMOND G. JUBITZ III

DENNIS C. PAYNE

JOHANNES PHIPPS

LARRY LEE FOERDER

Giving

Leading the Way Campaign

Delivering on Cal Maritime’s Promise to Maintain and Grow Our Reputation for Excellence

Four years ago, the California Maritime Academy Foundation set an ambitious goal to raise $40,000,000. We are proud to announce that, thanks to many alumni donors and the Foundation’s successful Yacht Donation Program, the campaign has raised $33,934,026 — 85% OF OUR GOAL!

With only $6,065,974 remaining, we ask for your help. With your support, we can ensure our curriculum, training, and technology provide the education and workforce experience cadets need for successful careers.

Gifts to an Area of Greatest Need support Cal Maritime priorities.

Cadet Success. The First Year Experience (FYE) program supports new cadets as they adjust to life at Cal Maritime and scholarships help cadets stay in school. The Academic Support Tutoring Center provides tutoring for any reason. As the maritime industry is increasingly global, we support study abroad experiences through our participation in the California State University (CSU) International Program and partnerships with other maritime universities.

Research Support. Undergraduate research has high educational impact, gives cadets more experience and heightens their value to employers.

Training and Program Support. Cadets need opportunities for specialized training, and the required technology needs constant updates to stay relevant. Deck and engine functions need investment, as well. Training on autonomous vessels, augmented and virtual reality, and preparation for the new training ship NSMV, due to arrive in 2025, all support our cadets and their futures.

The Foundation is releasing $3.5 million from the Yacht Donation Program to match all donations during the Campaign to existing and new endowments.

Endowments provide an ongoing source of revenue for the Academy and can support any campus project or program. With $3.5 million in matching

funds available from the Foundation’s Yacht Donation Program, there is flexibility to have an impact on almost any aspect of Cal Maritime life, from scholarships to athletics, endowed faculty positions, research opportunities, and more. The minimum gift to establish a new endowment that will be matched is $25,000, but gifts to an already-established endowment will be matched at any level. Donors can take up to 5 years to meet the $25,000 threshold.

Endowed academic positions help attract and retain distinguished faculty.

As we look forward to our centennial, attracting and retaining outstanding educators is essential to enhancing our tradition of academic excellence. Endowed academic positions are a great opportunity for friends of Cal Maritime to leave a legacy that honors their association with Cal Maritime and helps secure the future of the Academy. Yearly endowment earnings enhance support for faculty scholarly work, such as teaching and research.

There are several ways to establish an endowed academic position: a current gift, a pledge, or a blended gift. An endowed academic position could also be established solely through a planned giving vehicle or will/trust. A minimum of $100,000 is required to establish an endowed academic position.

For information on endowed scholarships or professorships, scan the QR code or contact Janice Bross , Senior Director of Development and Campaign Manager at (707) 654-1789 or jbross@csum.edu.

Proud Sponsor of CSU Maritime Academy

California Maritime Academy Foundation, Inc.

200 Maritime Academy Drive Vallejo, CA 94590-8181

For textbooks to notebooks, study snacks to official merchandise, rely on your Keelhauler Shops Campus Store. Stop by or shop online today!

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