John Maconi

One of the most rewarding parts of my role is helping connect donors’ passions with opportunities that enhance the midshipman experience. Recently, a donor I work closely with, Ronald C. Witt, Jr. of Sweetwater Construction Corp., had a vision to connect members of the United States Naval Academy’s Formula SAE team with the world of professional motorsports. I was excited to help bring that idea to life with LCDR Kevin Burnett ‘07. What followed was an unforgettable day at the track. Ron partnered with NASCAR driver Ryan Ellis to showcase a car wrapped in USNA and Navy Racing branding, creating a unique opportunity to highlight the Academy on a national stage. Midshipmen experienced far more than race day from the stands. They met drivers and teams at their haulers, spent time in the pit box, and listened to live driver-to-crew headset comms. They saw firsthand the precision, performance, teamwork, technical mastery, and disciplined execution required to compete at the highest levels of motorsports. As USNA Superintendent LtGen Michael Borgschulte often emphasizes, leadership is developed through experiences that challenge individuals to solve complex problems, make critical decisions in real time, and perform as part of a high-functioning team. This opportunity brought those lessons to life in a powerful way. This is only the beginning of what partnerships like these can achieve. When donors share not only their philanthropy, but also their expertise, networks, and passions, they create transformational experiences that complement the Academy’s mission of developing leaders of character for our Navy and Marine Corps. Thank you, Ron, for your vision and commitment to creating opportunities for our midshipmen. I’m excited to see where this partnership goes next.

Athletic & Scholarship Programs Announce New Name: Naval Academy Athletic Foundation The U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association & Foundation's Athletic & Scholarship Programs (A&SP) transitioned to a new name—now the Naval Academy Athletic Foundation—at the organization's spring meeting held at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium 10 April. The Athletic Foundation arrived at the new name after months of thoughtful work by its internal branding committee, and with the support of the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) and the Naval Academy Athletic Association. The new name more clearly reflects the organization’s purpose of inspiring philanthropic support for the physical mission in direct service of leadership development through prep‑school scholarships and athletic excellence. Rooted in the same mission, the new name reinforces the Naval Academy Athletic Foundation’s strength and momentum: to provide leadership, need‑based funding, guidance and mentoring to all Foundation Preparatory School students; to provide needed private funding in support of all USNA varsity, club and intramural sports teams through The Fund for Athletic Excellence; and to remain a highly respected organization in support of the physical mission of USNA. Through the Athletic Foundation Trustees, support extends to exceptional coaches and facilities across all sports, including club and intramural programs, while also creating opportunities for young athletes who benefit from an additional year of academic preparation. “All of this takes Navy athletics from good to great,” said Naval Academy Athletic Foundation Chairman Admiral Bill Moran ’81, USN (Ret.). “With the largest field of Division I sports in the country, the Naval Academy Athletic Foundation touches each of them, helping elevate the overall Navy athletics experience. This success is made possible by the extraordinary contributions of our alumni and supporters, whose commitment allows us to build not just strong programs, but the best overall athletic program in the nation.” Aligned with our “expect to win” mentality, near‑term investments will advance excellence on the field, in the classroom and beyond. Key priorities such as nutrition, medical and athletic training, and sports psychology will ensure Naval Academy athletes remain nationally competitive and mission‑focused on leadership development. With unwavering dedication to the physical mission of USNA, the Naval Academy Athletic Foundation will continue to develop strength, resilience and character to prepare the Midshipmen of today to become the leaders of the Fleet and Marine Corps tomorrow. Find out more at https://lnkd.in/eeaEF-Yu

Team – Please Share Widely! We’re excited to announce that, once again, Blue Water Advisors will be hosting the Career Progression Cohort on September 10–11 on behalf of the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association. We’re thrilled to return to the incredible Fluegel Alumni Center in Annapolis, MD for this impactful event. If you're a senior leader and USNA alum currently navigating or approaching your transition, don’t miss this unique opportunity to join the Blue Water Advisors team as we help guide you toward your next professional success. Space is limited, and this event will fill quickly—so don’t wait to secure your spot! To register, please contact us at info@bluewater-advisors.com, or reach out to Mike Lowe, Director of Alumni Support Services, at Mike.Lowe@usna.com. We look forward to seeing you in Annapolis! Thanks to our previous cohort attendees for help in spreading the word!: James Bates; Greta Spitz Densham; David Forman; Tasya Lacy; J. P. McDonough; Greg Mendenhall; Joseph Navarre; Michael Sanders; Ben Shupp; Robert Wolf

The USS Marinette (LCS 25), whose motto is “Freedom Done Wright,” visited the United States Naval Academy this week ahead of Ship Selection. A group of U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association & Foundation teammates had the privilege of touring the ship, guided by its Naval Academy alumni, including Commanding Officer Commander Janet Broome ‘06, Lt Bryan Hammond ‘19, and LTJG Ryan Mier ‘21. Impressive ship—even more impressive crew! #usnavy #usnaalumni #gonavy