<p>Just wanted to know if anyone has heard anything.</p>
<p>Latest scuttlebutt I have heard is that it is a three star Admiral. Her name escapes me at this time; however, it was mentioned on another thread here.</p>
<p>I think the guy you are referring to is Adm. Riley, the MSC commander</p>
<p>That was not the name I had heard. The name I had heard was a female. Please don't take anything as "for sure" though as I have no "inside" information on this.</p>
<p>we had also heard that it was going to be that woman from a few of the faculty. the next week we found out that she wasn't even in the final 6 that were asked back.</p>
<p>Can someone summarize all the personnel changes that are happening at the USMMA or are affecting the Academy (e.g. new Superintendent, new MARAD administrator, Commander, etc.)? Is there any input from alum as to what qualities they would like to see in the new Sup't, philosophy, the direction of the USMMA, ideas to strengthen influence in Washington. As a new parent this is all a little overwhelming.</p>
<p>Well right now, Dean Kumar is the Interim Supt. with the selection process still occuring with the Supt. and Commandant. I know that I'm semi-scared and semi-anxious of what I'm going to be coming back to in July for my senior year after 8 months at sea. Could be a completely different place.</p>
<p>Only big changes are Stewart retiring and McMahon(Deputy) taking a new job at MARAD. The Dean will run the place until a new Sup is selected.</p>
<p>From what I hear Alumni were on the selecting panel, but don't hold me to that.</p>
<p>Dean Kumar is not a fan of students on the fence with grades. I hope he is fair with the Plebes that are having problems.</p>
<p>I thought the position of Commandant was open as well and that Commandant Fell was the acting Commandant. Am I mistaken?</p>
<p>The Maine Maritime Academy, where Dr. Kumar previously worked for 20 years apparently believes in giving students a second chance. Since the Maine Maritime Academy has been very successful in producing qualified mariners using this philosophy, let us hope that Dr. Kumar will not abandon that philosophy at USMMA. The following is from the Maine Maritime Academy web site.</p>
<p>Readmission Policy</p>
<p>All former students who have resigned, been disenrolled, or not been enrolled for two consecutive academic semesters, and who wish to apply for readmission, must submit an application for readmission and a non-refundable $15 fee to the Director of Admissions. The application will be considered by the Academic Board sitting as a Board of Readmission.</p>
<p>Favorable consideration will be based upon evaluation of the reasons for previous separation, evidence of improved academic standing, improved conduct, and increased personal maturity. Admissions authorized by the Academic Board will be subject to space being available in the class for which admission is sought.</p>
<p>Students may be readmitted to the Academy at the start of the fall semester, the spring semester, annual training cruise, cadet shipping, or co-operative. An application for readmission must be completed by the following dates for consideration:</p>
<pre><code>* Fall semester - July 1
* Spring semester - October 15
* Training cruise - March 1
</code></pre>
<p>But that is not a Federal Service Academy with the budget restraints that KP faces. Every additional trimester or year added is counted against their budget/cost per student. I would not compare MMA to KP's setback policies as they are completely different. </p>
<p>And back to MARAD, it is unlikely that Sean Connaughton's nomination to the Maritime Commission will be approved in this session of Congress and he will be back in industry unless McCain is elected and still wants him. They serve at the pleasure of the president, with Senate approval. This will not impact the Superintendent's position, when it is ultimately filled.</p>
<p>There is little additional cost for a setback-- remember most cost are there regardless if you have a few extra Cadets. In fact, by adding a dozen to any given class you would actually see the overall cost per student go down.</p>
<p>Is there anything new?</p>
<p>I volunteered Wednesday evening for Plebe Treat night at USMMA and nobody seems to know anything yet. I had heard last week that some announcement would be made this week, but so far nothing. Hopefully, we will hear soon.</p>
<p>My s told me that Thursday evening Adm Stewart departed from USMMA. At the gates many 1st classmen and plebes gathered and blocked the road, not allowing his car to pass. The mids forced the car to stop and told Adm Stewart how much they loved him and how they were upset at his leaving. Many 1st classmen told him how grateful they were that he had allowed them a second chance and that they wouldn't still be at the Academy except for getting that chance. My s said the Adm was very touched by the show of affection and respect. It was obvious that there was a personal connect with the students that generated sadness all around.</p>
<p>The new supe as announced today at lunch and at noon by MARAD:</p>
<p>RADM Allen B. Worley</p>
<p>S says:</p>
<p>Midshipman of all classes gathered at Vickery gate to wave him goodbye. He never stopped, we never tried to stop him. He and his wife drove through and we waved.</p>
<p>I dont know where they got that story from.</p>
<p>Somebody is trying to tell a "Story"</p>