In addition to earning their Cal Maritime diplomas on May 15, seven seniors were commissioned into the Armed Forces, capping off their careers as leaders in the Strategic Sealift Midshipman Program (SSMP) – Unit 71, the Corps of Cadets.

Commissionee having photo taken with family
Ensign Leonardo Jefferson is flanked by his brother,
Levi and Aunt Chandra for his official photograph.

“These exceptional graduates went above and beyond during their time here,” said LT. Kevin Sandifer, Asst. Officer In Charge of Unit 71. "Not only are they deeply involved in a demanding academic curriculum, the SSMP requires additional commitment. We’re extremely proud of their accomplishments and look forward to following their careers and service."

Each midshipman also earned financial assistance through the Maritime Administration (MARAD) Student Incentive Program (SIP), which awarded them each $32,000 during their academic journey.

Wil Brickham, SSMP Special Assignment, points out that Cal Maritime’s SSM Unit 71 commissioned more officers in the Armed Forces this year than the nearby University of California ROTC unit.

“These Cal Maritime graduates have earned commissions from their hard work, and earned the right, the privilege, and the responsibility of officers in the United States Armed Forces. Very few women and men answer the call to become leaders to serve our country, and fewer still earn the distinction,” said Don Maier, Dean of the School of Maritime Transportation, Logistics, and Management. We’re justly proud of their service.”Commissionees

From left, the newly commissioned officers: ENS Antoine Powell, ENS William Harrelson, ENS Thomas Christofk, ENS Nelson Paradis, ENS Leonardo Jefferson, ENS Micah Stickwan, 2nd Lt Skyler Ulrich

The new officers are:

Ensign Thomas Christofk
United States Navy
Naval Aviator
Grass Valley, CA

Ensign William Harrelson
United States Navy Reserve
Strategic Sealift Officer
Wichita, KS

Ensign Leonardo Jefferson
United States Navy
Submarine Officer
Salinas, CA

Ensign Nelson Paradis
United States Navy
Surface Warfare Officer
Alta, WY

Ensign Antoine Powell
United States Navy
Surface Warfare Officer
Tiburon, CA

Ensign Micah Stickwan
United States Navy Reserve
Strategic Sealift Officer
Ketchikan, AK

2nd Lieutenant Skyler Ulrich
United States Marine Corps
Tracy, CA

ABOUT CAL MARITIME
Established in 1929, California State University Maritime Academy is the only degree-granting maritime academy on the West Coast. Located in Vallejo, California, the campus offers undergraduate degrees that prepare students for careers in engineering, transportation, international relations, business, and global logistics. Cal Maritime also offers a master’s degree in Transportation and Engineering Management, as well as a number of extended learning programs and courses.