The purpose of the Honorary Alumni Award is to honor non-alumni who have demonstrated a genuine and enduring commitment to Cal Maritime --- and have served, promoted, developed and loved the mission of our great Academy. Recommendations for this award can be made by alumni, faculty, staff and friends of the University, and is bestowed by the Cal Maritime Alumni Association to those outstanding individuals who have contributed to the success of our alma mater.

Anne Heather Cropper

The First Lady of Cal Maritime from 2012 until her passing in 2019, Heather dedicated herself to the well-being and care of cadets, faculty, and staff at an Academy she deeply loved. An Iowa native, Heather received her degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from Iowa State University, also the locale of another important event—meeting Tom Cropper. After they married in 1981, Heather took on the challenging role of being a Navy spouse. While raising three children, she devoted herself to supporting fellow military families, always radiating warmth, sincerity, love, and understanding for their unique service. She displayed determination, poise, and resilience during her husband’s extended sea time and was an exemplar to others. Through several military relocations, she committed to generously supporting the naval aviation community, local schools, and her PEO chapters. Heather’s lasting impact on military families was recognized in 2012 when she received the Navy Meritorious Public Service Award. As a loving wife, mother, and grandparent, family and friends were Heather’s passion and priority. Her journey – though too short – was marked by her contagious laugh and smile, a carefree spirit, and above all, kindness, and grace. 

 

Elizabeth (Libby) Edwards 

Long associated with Cal Maritime through the Edwards Leadership Development Program she and her husband Tom endow, Libby is a steadfast believer in the power of the education offered at the Academy. Born in Seattle and raised in Santa Barbara, Libby received her Bachelor of Arts from Colorado Women’s College in Denver. She pursued a career in real estate in Walnut Creek until meeting and marrying Tom. While taking an active role in raising their two children, Libby volunteered in their schools as well as throughout their scouting journeys. Libby has spent countless hours volunteering for and advancing the Orinda Women’s Club, included a multi-year tenure as its president. An avid reader, she has been meeting with a beloved book club for 23 years. She has co-chaired the auction committee for Cal Maritime’s annual gala and continues to support activities and endowments that she and Tom have created. She remains devoted to her family, including four grandchildren.

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