(NEWS) SUNY Maritime College Cadets Visit WMU

July

2014

SUNY Maritime College Cadets Visit WMU

The State University of New York (SUNY) Maritime College training vessel, the Empire State VI, was docked in Copenhagen from 10-14 July. WMU was pleased to welcome a group of nearly 50 SUNY cadets from the ship on 11 July for a presentation about WMU’s educational opportunities and capacity building mission. The group was accompanied by Vice President for University Relations, Aimee L. Bernstein, and Deputy of the Empire State VI, Captain Catie Hanft.

Later that evening, a private reception was held onboard the Empire State VI and several WMU faculty members, including Acting President Neil Bellefontaine, attended the event at the invitation of Captain R.S. Smith, Master of the Empire State VI and Commandant of Cadets. WMU students had the opportunity to visit the vessel the following morning and meet the Captain, instructors, and cadets as well as tour the ship. Over 50 WMU students participated in the visit.

SUNY Maritime and WMU are now in discussions about future possibilities for collaboration.

To learn more about SUNY Maritime College, click here.

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Dissertation title

Maritime Governance: Contextual Factors affecting Implementation of IMO Instruments

My decision to enroll in the doctoral program at WMU was heavily influenced by my prior experience as a Master's student at the institution. Initially introduced to me as a preeminent global institution for maritime education, WMU's stellar reputation was further substantiated by the exceptional quality of education I received during my Master’s studies. This experience became a compelling factor in my determination to return to WMU as a doctoral student. Recognizing the synergies between my research aspirations and the institutional offerings at WMU, I concluded that continuing my educational journey at this esteemed institution was not only beneficial but also aligned perfectly with my academic and professional goals.

My research explored the theoretical foundations of governance, placing a particular emphasis on maritime governance. Going beyond mere theoretical frameworks, the study conducted a comprehensive examination of a crucial aspect within maritime governance—specifically, the implementation of International Maritime Organization (IMO) instruments, exploring the contextual factors that affect the implementation process. Applying the grounded theory methodology, the research aimed to understand these theoretical underpinnings, as well as firmly anchor insights in the practical context of maritime governance; unveiling the intricacies and challenges associated with the effective implementation of IMO instruments in the maritime domain. The selection of this topic was motivated by a personal interest that was cultivated during my Master’s studies in maritime law and policy. Furthermore, it was driven by the recognition of a scarcity of scientific research on this specific topic. This gap in the existing body of knowledge served as a catalyst for my exploration, underscoring the significance of contributing valuable insights to an area of maritime governance that has been relatively underrepresented in scholarly research.

Undoubtedly, a highlight of my educational journey at WMU was the opportunity to forge connections with influential change-makers and thought leaders hailing from every corner of the globe. This invaluable chance to engage with individuals on an international scale has not only enabled me to expand my global network but has also served as a conduit for immersing myself in the rich tapestry of diverse cultures. Through these global interactions, I've gained a profound understanding of different perspectives, traditions, and approaches, contributing significantly to my personal and academic growth. This experience goes beyond mere networking and has also played a pivotal role in fostering stronger connections within the Caribbean region from which I hail.

Embarking on my professional path, my foremost aim is to establish myself as an authority in the field of maritime governance. I aspire to leave a significant and enduring mark on the global maritime landscape. Beyond the academic sphere, my drive is fuelled by a passionate interest in pursuing diverse opportunities within the maritime domain and the broader educational sector and contributing significantly to positive transformations in the global maritime sector.

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