Fort Schuyler Magazine - Spring 2022

The Maritime College Alumni Association (MCAA) held its annual Distinguished Alumni Awards Dinner on April 29, 2022 at Tribeca 360° in New York City. This year the MCAA honored: THE MARITIME COLLEGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Annual Distinguished Alumni Awards Dinner

DISTINGUISHED ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR GRIFF LYNCH ’88 Executive Director, Georgia Ports Authority

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD JAMES STARACE ’81 Chief Engineer, The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD MICHAEL TONER '65 EVP General Dynamics (Retired)

A fter two COVID-related postponements, more than 200 friends, classmates, colleagues, and family members were present to properly salute to the 2022 Distinguished Alumni Honorees. In their acceptance remarks, the honorees spoke about their appreciation for their alma mater, that their SUNY Maritime education taught them at a young age to be accountable, to always support your colleagues, and that hard work and determination will see you through the most challenging of times. Each honoree gave a heartwarming tribute to their family for supporting them along the way. This year's honorees (l-r), Michael Toner '65, James Starace ’81, and Griff Lynch ’88.

The MCAA wishes to thank the lead sponsors of the event: The Georgia Ports Authority, McAllister Towing & Transportation, and Fresh Meadow Power. More than 50 students and cadets were in attendance thanks to the generosity of Maritime College Parents Association, McAllister Towing, and individuals who sponsored tickets for the students to attend. Thank you to everyone who supported the event. The proceeds raised help the MCAA expand networking and career opportunities for alumni and to provide programming and scholarships for the next generation of SUNY Maritime graduates.

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