Long-term goals for maritime academy

The federal Department of Transportation is embarking on a strategic plan to develop long-term goals and objectives for the United States Merchant Marine Academy based in Kings Point.

The planning process will be led by Shashi Kumar, the interim superintendent at the academy, where graduates go on to serve either on U.S.-flagged tankers and cargo ships or in the armed forces.

“This plan will provide a road map to help us better prioritize investments and help the academy provide a first-class education for all Kings Point midshipmen,” Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said.

The academy falls under the Department of Transportation, while the Coast Guard Academy is managed by the Department of Homeland Security.

The Army, Navy and Air Force academies are operated through the Department of Defense.

Kumar, who joined the Academy in 2007 as assistant superintendent for academic affairs, temporarily replaces Rear Adm. Philip H. Greene Jr., who begins work this month at the National Defense University in Washington, D.C. Greene was the third superintendent in three years at the academy.

“This plan will provide the strategic vision for the Academy and strengthen our ability to attract a talented and diverse student body to serve the maritime needs of the nation,” Kumar said in a news release.

Above: United States Merchant Marine Academy midshipmen parade on the campus quad during noontime muster.