Sponsor Program
The Midshipman Sponsorship program is designed to pair 4th Class Midshipmen with members of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy community. The programs allows Midshipmen time to take a break from everyday regimental environment with someone who will listen to them and provide support. Rigorous Academy standards can tax even the best of spirits, producing feelings of stress, loneliness, homesickness, and doubt.
As a sponsor, you will be able to provide Midshipmen with a support network during their first year at the Academy. This network will assist them in facing academic, athletic, and regimental challenges. As a sponsor you serve as the Midshipman's friend and advisor, providing a caring environment for relaxation away from the pressures of the academy.
How Often Can a Midshipmen Leave Campus?
Midshipmen may leave campus based on their classification in the Midshipman Regulations. Typically as a sponsor, you may take a Plebe out for a dinner liberty monthly. Overnight liberties and long weekends are not typically authorized until acceptance weekend. (Please note, if you feel you may be located too far from campus for a dinner liberty, you may not want to sign up for the program). Additionally, you may visit your Plebe on campus for dinner, a Friday Night Movie in Ackerman (7:30PM weekly) or on weekends. As a Midshipman progresses through their Academy career, the amount of time they may spend off campus increases.
What Should a Sponsor do with a Midshipman?
What should a Sponsor avoid doing with a Midshipman?
For Potential Sponsors
I have been a Sponsor before and my Midshipman did Not Reach Out Often or at All. What do I do?
I am sold! What are the Criteria to Participate as a sponsor?
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Active/Retired/Reserve officer in the U.S. Armed Forces
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Alumnus of a federal service academy
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Staff or faculty member of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.
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Parents of a former Midshipmen.
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Parents of a current Midshipmen (You may request your son/daughter but you must take at least two others)
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Obtain special approval from the Commandant of Midshipmen
How Do I Sign Up to be a Sponsor?
Potential sponsors may sign up by clicking on this link and completing the application.
For Midshipmen:
What is the Criteria to being sponsored?
I am a Plebe Candidate and I Would Like to Request a Sponsor!
Plebe/Plebe Candidates can request a sponsor by clicking this link and completing the google application.
Stay tuned here for information on the 2021 program kickoff.
All participating Midshipmen and Sponsors/Sponsor Families are encouraged to attend!
