The United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) is proud to announce its valedictorian and salutatorian for the 2025 graduating class, both of whom have demonstrated exceptional academic prowess during their Kings Point careers.  

Midshipman Trevor Fjord Quigley, a Maritime Logistics and Security Major, with a GPA of 3.914, from Rowley, MA, has been named valedictorian, and Midshipman Draygan Joseph Colonese, also a Maritime Logistics and Security Major, with a 3.870 GPA, from Colorado Springs, CO, has been named salutatorian. Both will commission as Ensigns in the U.S. Navy Reserve, and sail as Deck Officers in the U.S. Merchant Marine, as members of the American Maritime Officers Union.

When asked to reflect upon the past four years, Quigley said, "Kings Point is not defined by its challenges alone, but by the unbreakable brotherhoods forged through every rigor. Without them, this journey would not have been possible." Colonese echoed his sentiments, saying, “By throwing midshipmen into all kinds of challenges, Kings Point manages to produce the highest quality leaders in the maritime industry. I am honored to be graduating alongside such capable and resilient officers, and I look forward to seeing what everyone accomplishes.”

 "I am extremely proud of the Class of 2025," said Vice Admiral Joanna M. Nunan, Superintendent. "Kings Point is not like any other college, university, or federal service academy. These graduates have earned three credentials – a Bachelor of Science Degree, a commission as an officer in the uniformed services of the United States, and a U.S. Coast Guard License as a Third Mate or Third Assistant Engineer. Their accomplishments reflect their steadfast determination and deep commitment to service. I am certain that their influence will shape our nation in the years to come."

USMMA will hold its 89th Commencement Ceremony on Monday, June 23, at 9:00 a.m. on the Academy grounds, at Captain James Harvey Tomb Memorial Field.

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The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, located in Kings Point, N.Y, educates and graduates licensed merchant mariners and leaders of exemplary character who will serve America’s marine transportation and defense needs in peace and war. The U.S. Merchant Marine is administered by the Department of Transportation.