Incoming cadets from throughout the country, Panama, and Cyprus officially welcomed

Massachusetts Maritime Academy , a top-ranked public university with undergraduate degree programs focusing on science, engineering, technology, math, and business that blend academics and experiential learning, recently held its Freshman Recognition ceremony for the Class of 2026.

The September 18th ceremony, held in the campus’ Clean Harbors Stadium, officially welcomed the Cadet Candidates into the Regiment of Cadets as MMA’s Class of 2026. To date the Cadet Candidates have successfully completed all necessary training to be called Fourth Class Cadets. Training included physical fitness, marching, academic knowledge of the Academy and its history, and a short familiarization cruise aboard the U.S.T. S. Kennedy. As part of the Recognition, the Cadre Leadership Team, who trained the Cadet Candidates, welcomed them into the Regiment by presenting them an Orientation Ribbon while recognizing the presence of the “Academy Seal Pin,” which is affixed to the lapel of Cadets’ uniforms to outwardly show their commitment to the Regiment.

Cadet families, friends, and the Academy family celebrated this moment as the Class of 2026 transitioned to 4th Class Cadets and the newest members of the Massachusetts Maritime Academy Regiment of Cadets.

“Freshman Recognition is a special moment for which our newest members to the Academy transition from ‘candidates’ to members of the Regiment, becoming 4th Class cadets,” said CDR Pat Dillon, Dean of Students/Commandant of Cadets. “We are proud of the 4th Class cadets, MMA’s class of 2026 and recognize Regimental Commander Abigail Pope of Falmouth, Massachusetts and her leadership team for their professionalism, commitment to high standards, and ongoing coaching and mentoring in support of the freshmen class. A job well done by all.”

Some 350 cadets are members of the Class of 2026, representing all New England states and many states throughout the country, in addition to Panama and Cyprus.

“Freshman Recognition is one more milestone in a freshman cadet’s Academy experience,”  said Rear Admiral Francis X. McDonald, USMS, president of the Massachusetts Maritime Academy. “The entire Academy community officially welcomes the class of 2026.”

The Academy also held its annual Homecoming and Reunion weekend in concert with the Freshman Recognition ceremony. Running from September 16-18, the event was an opportunity for former classmates to gather and reconnect and included a Hall of Fame induction and dinner, Alumni Association annual meeting, and a Merchant Marine memorial service.