Notable Alumni of SUNY Maritime College: Shaping Maritime History and Beyond
The State University of New York (SUNY) Maritime College, the oldest maritime college in the United States, founded in 1874, has a rich history of producing leaders in the maritime industry, military, and various other fields. The Stephen B. Luce Library at SUNY Maritime College is committed to preserving America’s maritime heritage, documenting the development of nautical education in the United States. This article shines a light on some of the college's most prominent alumni, individuals who have made significant contributions to society and brought honor to their alma mater.
The Legacy of SUNY Maritime College
SUNY Maritime College's origins lie in the post-Civil War era, a time when the American maritime industry was facing a decline. Concerns about the professionalism of maritime officers led the New York Chamber of Commerce and maritime stakeholders to advocate for a nautical school in New York. Stephen B. Luce, a naval education reformer, played a crucial role in establishing the New York Nautical School in 1874, which would later become SUNY Maritime College. The USS St. Mary's served as the school's first training vessel.
The institution evolved over the years, transitioning from a grammar school to a provider of advanced professional subjects. It faced budgetary challenges but persevered thanks to the support of the maritime industry and its alumni. In 1938, the college found a permanent home at Fort Schuyler in Throggs Neck, Bronx. In 1946, it gained the ability to confer degrees, and in 1948, it became part of the SUNY system.
Today, SUNY Maritime College offers bachelor's and master's degrees, along with professional training certificates. Its programs prepare students for careers in the maritime industry and beyond. The college also has a United States Navy/United States Marine Corps Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) program, which prepares students for commissioned officer positions.
Notable Alumni
SUNY Maritime College boasts a diverse and accomplished alumni network. Here are some of its most notable graduates:
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Geraldo Rivera: Journalist, Attorney, and Author
Geraldo Rivera is an American journalist, attorney, author, and political commentator who worked at the Fox News Channel from 2001 to 2023. Born on July 4, 1943, in New York City, Rivera began his career at WABC-TV as a news reporter. He gained publicity with the live 1986 TV special The Mystery of Al Capone's Vaults. Rivera hosted the news magazine program Geraldo at Large, hosted the occasional broadcast of Geraldo Rivera Reports (in lieu of hosting At Large). Rivera's career breakthrough came when he exposed the deplorable conditions at Willowbrook State School, an institution for mentally disabled children, leading to significant reforms in their care and treatment. In February 2024, Rivera retained the spot of correspondent-at-large with NewsNation.
Scott Kelly: Astronaut and Engineer
Scott Joseph Kelly, born February 21, 1964, is an American engineer, retired astronaut, and naval aviator. A veteran of four space flights, Kelly commanded the International Space Station on Expeditions 26, 44, 45, and 46. His career highlights the diverse paths available to SUNY Maritime College graduates.
Edward Villella: Ballet Dancer and Choreographer
Edward Villella is an American ballet dancer and choreographer, frequently cited as America's most celebrated male dancer of ballet at the time. He has won numerous awards, including the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Children's Special, the Kennedy Center Honors, and the National Medal of Arts. Villella's transition from maritime studies to the world of dance showcases the broad range of talents nurtured at SUNY Maritime College. He appeared in a number of television specials, including "Brigadoon" (1966-67), "Christmas With the Bing Crosbys" (NBC, 1972-73) and "Art Is…" (PBS, 1973-74).
Harry Manning: Master Mariner, Aviator, and Naval Officer
Vice Admiral Harry Manning was an American master mariner, aviator, and an officer in the United States Navy Reserve. He is most noted for his heroic role in the rescue of 32 crew members from Italian freighter Florida and for commanding the SS United States on her record-breaking maiden crossings of the Atlantic. He was among those honored in two ticker tape parades: the first in 1929 as a crew member of the America and again in 1952 as master of the SS United States. As an aviator, Manning served as a navigator for Amelia Earhart.
Lester Chang: Politician and Naval Reservist
Lester Chang is an American businessman, naval reservist, and politician who represents the 49th district of the New York State Assembly, which comprises part of South Brooklyn. A Republican, he defeated longtime Democratic incumbent Peter J. Abbate Jr. in 2022.
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Ross Gilmore Marvin: Explorer and Engineer
Ross Gilmore Marvin was an American explorer who took part in Robert Peary's 1905-1906 and 1908-1909 expeditions to the Arctic. It was initially believed that Marvin drowned during the second expedition, but an Inuit member of the expedition later stated he shot and killed Marvin.
Steven Winberg: Government Official and Businessman
Steven E. Winberg is an American businessman and government official who served as the Assistant Secretary for Fossil Energy from November 2017 to January 2021.
Gerd F. Glang: NOAA Corps Rear Admiral
Gerd F. Glang is a former NOAA Corps rear admiral who last served as the director of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Office of Coast Survey. National Hydrographer and as one of the commissioners of the Mississippi River Commission. Senate. He retired from the NOAA Corps on August 26, 2016 after over 32 years of combined uniformed service.
Ernest Preeg: Economist and Diplomat
Ernest Henry Preeg was an American economist from Virginia, who held a B.S. in Marine Transportation from State University of New York Maritime College, an M.A. and Ph.D. in Economics from The New School of Social Research in New York City. He served as the Ambassador to Haiti from 1981 to 1983.
Other Notable Alumni
The list of distinguished SUNY Maritime College alumni extends beyond those mentioned above. It includes individuals who have excelled in various fields, such as:
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- William J. Finnerty: Executive Vice President of Strategy and Asset Management of Tesoro Corporation.
- John Anderson: Sailor.
- Scott Kelly (politician): American politician.
SUNY Maritime College Foundation
The SUNY Maritime Foundation plays a crucial role in supporting the college's mission. It is an independent charitable corporation established with the sole mission of supporting Maritime College. The Foundation is staffed by the College, all decisions are made by the independent Board of Directors who ensure that gifts are used as donors intended them and in the best interests of the College. Members of the SUNY Maritime Foundation Board of Directors serve for up to three renewable three-year terms. Board members are distinguished alumni and business executives representing various industries, perspectives, and backgrounds who give generously of their time, talent, and philanthropy.
Alumni Engagement
SUNY Maritime College recognizes the importance of maintaining strong connections with its alumni. The college fosters these relationships through various initiatives, including:
- Alumni Association: The Maritime College Alumni Association provides a platform for alumni to connect with each other and stay informed about college news and events.
- Networking Opportunities: The college hosts events and programs that allow alumni to network with current students and faculty.
- Mentorship Programs: Alumni can serve as mentors to current students, providing guidance and support as they navigate their academic and professional paths.
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