KINGS POINT, N.Y., May 6, 2025—On Friday, May 2, the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) welcomed Congressman Jack Bergman of Michigan’s 1st District and Congressman Keith Self of Texas’ 3rd District to Kings Point.

During their visit, the Congressmen and the Academy’s senior administrators met with leadership and project managers from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) New York District to discuss their recently announced long-term agreement for campus revitalization and modernization. The plan, part of a broader effort under a Presidential Executive Order, “Restoring America’s Maritime Dominance”, represents a major investment in the future of the Academy.

The visit included a tour of key areas, such as the chapel, barracks, athletic facilities, and classrooms. The Congressmen were able to see firsthand, the spaces that will be transformed to better support the Academy’s mission.

A highlight of the day was lunch in Delano Hall, where the Congressmen met with midshipmen from across the country, including those from their home districts. They engaged in meaningful conversations about life at USMMA and at sea, as well as the midshipmen’s aspirations.

“We are grateful for the ongoing support from our elected officials,” said VADM Joanna M. Nunan, USMMA Superintendent. “We look forward to sharing the progress of these improvements, which will help attract the best and brightest candidates to serve as our Nation’s next generation of merchant marine and military officers.”

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About USMMA.

The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, located in Kings Point, N.Y, educates and graduates leaders of exemplary character who are inspired to serve the national security, marine transportation, and economic needs of the United States as licensed Merchant Marine Officers and commissioned officers in the Armed Forces. The Academy, which was established under the Merchant Marine Act of 1936, was dedicated as the United States Merchant Marine Academy in 1943 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. It is administered by the Maritime Administration under the auspices of the Department of Transportation.

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