[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 195 (Friday, December 6, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1555]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE GREAT LAKES MARITIME ACADEMY

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                           HON. JACK BERGMAN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, December 6, 2019

  Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the 50th 
Anniversary of the Great Lakes Maritime Academy. Through its commitment 
to excellence and dedication to its students, GLMA has become an 
indispensable part of Michigan's First District.
  Founded in 1969, the Great Lakes Maritime Academy is one of only six 
maritime academies in the United States. The first cadets of the 
academy received an associate degree and a license allowing for service 
on the Great Lakes upon graduation. In the 1980s, GLMA partnered with 
Ferris State University to allow cadets to earn bachelor's degrees, 
opening opportunities for graduates to serve in the United States Navy 
and Coast Guard. In 2012, thanks to the dedicated efforts of President 
Nelson and other public leaders, Governor Snyder signed legislation 
allowing community colleges to award bachelor's degrees in disciplines 
including maritime technology. This change allowed GLMA to partner with 
Northwestern Michigan College and enabled cadets to earn a bachelor's 
degree at a fraction of the cost.
  The work of the Great Lakes Maritime Academy is essential for 
providing the next generation of Merchant Marine officers with the 
education, training, and credentials needed to serve on the Great Lakes 
and the high seas. Piloting everything from cruise ships and ferries to 
tankers and cargo ships, graduates of GLMA play an essential role in 
supporting our economy, national security, and everyday lives. The 
impact of their work on the people of Michigan and the United States 
cannot be overstated.
  Madam Speaker, Michigan's proud maritime history is continued every 
day by the students, graduates, faculty, and leaders of the Great Lakes 
Maritime Academy, and it is my honor to congratulate them for fifty 
years of excellence. Michiganders can take great pride in knowing the 
First District is home to such dedicated citizens. On behalf of my 
constituents, I wish GLMA all the best as it ventures into the future.

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