2024 Commencement Message from MARAD

Dear California State University Maritime Academy Graduating Class of 2024:

It is with great pleasure and the utmost pride, that I take this opportunity to congratulate you on behalf of the Maritime Administration. I send special greetings to all the moms and dads, families and friends, and faculty and staff who are celebrating with today's graduates. Thank you for all the encouragement and support you provided at every step along the way to help today's graduates reach this milestone.

Class of 2024—today is the culmination of four years of hard work and preparation on your part. You are now graduating from a world-class maritime academy, the only one of its kind on the West Coast, and joining the proud ranks of your predecessors—CAL Maritime graduates who have gone on to establish a legacy at sea for themselves and their alma mater. I urge you to seek out new challenges, and continue to hone your ability to adapt, as it is a critical life skill that will assist you greatly in a world where changes come quickly and often without warnings or second chances.

The education you received here will serve you well by providing a strong foundation for professional success as you begin the next stage in your life. You now have the tools to be successful in the pursuit of extraordinary careers in the maritime industry. You will play a valuable role in American prosperity for years to come, and, contribute to our economic and national security. Regardless of your academic major—whether it be in a traditional USCG license-oriented program or in other disciplines like mechanical engineering, global studies, and maritime affairs—a world of opportunities lies ahead of you, ready for the taking.

We at the Maritime Administration are proud of your accomplishments and wish each of you the very best of success in your professional lives. Please accept our heartiest Congratulations, and BRAVO ZULU—job well done!

Sincerely,

Ann C. Phillips
Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy (Ret.)
Maritime Administration/MARAD Administrator