A large, private gift will serve to launch and enhance Cal Maritime's redesigned leadership
development efforts. The generous $500,000 gift from Tom and Libby Edwards will create
the Edwards Leadership Development Program.
"No matter where you go in the world, when you look at organizations, businesses,
and generally anything that is healthy and thriving, you will find one common thread
– a great leader," said Tom Edwards.
"A private gift of this size will support our efforts to create and sustain the finest
leadership development program at any U.S. maritime academy," said President Tom Cropper.
"Our cadets receive an incredible education at Cal Maritime that clearly differentiates
them from others and makes them highly sought-after in the job market," said Edwards.
"Adding an enhanced leadership component to their education will propel them in their
chosen fields and set them apart from their peers as they advance in their careers."
Steve Kreta, vice president for student affairs, noted that the California State
University Maritime Academy has undertaken a multi-year presidential initiative to
create and sustain the finest leadership development program at any of the U.S. maritime
academies. The task force charged with this initiative has designed a Cadet Leadership
Development Program that offers all students a common leadership foundation with optional
higher achievement levels.
"The Cadet Leadership Development Program at Cal Maritime is built on a ‘maritime
model,' embracing the history, tradition and importance of the seafaring chain of
command, while promoting active participation in modern team management practices,"
said Kreta.
The common foundation required of all graduates is delivered through a combination
of academic courses, residential and off-campus programs, and participation in the
Corps of Cadets. Optional levels of programming may be achieved through various pathways,
such as additional academic coursework, athletics, Associated Students activities,
and Corps of Cadets leadership positions.
What inspired the Edwards to make this gift? "That's easy," responds Tom Edwards.
"Motivated, focused, disciplined cadets. Young men and women who are eager to learn.
Next, a world-class faculty who genuinely care about the cadets they teach. And finally,
the current leader at Cal Maritime, Tom Cropper. When you put all three together,
there isn't anything we can't accomplish. It will be exciting to see the results as
more organizations and individuals make contributions to this wonderful institution."
"We sincerely hope that as the school continues its long tradition of graduating
very talented people, that our alumni will find their way back to volunteer and contribute
to Cal Maritime," said Edwards.
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ABOUT CAL MARITIME
Established in 1929, California State University Maritime Academy is the only degree-granting
maritime academy on the West Coast. Located in Vallejo, California, the campus offers
undergraduate degrees that prepare students for careers in engineering, transportation,
international relations, business, and global logistics. Cal Maritime also offers
a master’s degree in Transportation and Engineering Management, as well as a number
of extended learning programs and courses.