Message from Rear Admiral Helis on New U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Website
KINGS POINT, N.Y., February 19, 2013 - Visitors to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy website may notice some changes beginning today – a new look and feel that reflects an exciting time at the Academy. Improving communications and building strong and lasting relationships with our stakeholders are two of the goals in our strategic plan, along with modernizing infrastructure and strengthening administrative services. The launch of the new website is an important step toward achieving our goals.
The overhaul is the product of many months of information gathering and collaboration. The site underwent vigorous accessibility and usability studies to ensure visitors can intuitively find what they need. As a result, the content has been logically labeled and organized in a way that makes it easy to navigate to what you need in the shortest amount of time. It assures a faster, more efficient and satisfying web experience for current and prospective midshipmen, faculty, parents, alumni, industry members and the general public.
New Features
New features include:
- Prominent placement of the most used features: In the News, Academics, and Regimental Life
- A new “2013 Margin of Excellence Needs List" that is closely tied to the goals set out in the Academy’s strategic plan.
- Academy telephone directory to key departments
- A photo gallery
- A searchable calendar of all academy events
The site, www.usmma.edu, adjusts to fit any device making USMMA accessible via computers, smart phones, tablets and other electronic devices. The fonts are easy to read and make it easier to link to related information.
The site was developed using an interactive web design used by several federal agencies giving users the information they want, when and where they need it. Use of this technology is another step in Secretary LaHood’s and the Maritime Administration’s commitment to modernize the way we engage the public.
The new website is a good step forward, but we still have work to do, so visitors will notice that the language and layout will continue to evolve. We welcome your feedback. Should you wish to contact us, you may email externalaffairs@usmma.edu.