By Kaye Lin
Director of Communications and Marketing
A Surprising Start
It was a warm Wednesday afternoon when I found myself on the doorstep of a beautiful house in Mystic, Connecticut. The house belonged to Niel Spillane, a 100-year-old alumnus of Webb Institute, and I was there to interview him about his long and fascinating life. I was all set to meet him the day before, on Tuesday, but an unfortunate encounter with store-bought sushi left me very sick and forced me to cancel.
With four generations of the Spillane gentlemen. Niel Spillane (far left) with his grandson, J.B.
Spillane, great grandson, Reid, his son Jamie, and grandson Colin (far right) celebrating their
family legacy.
Embarrassed that I—a woman in my 30s—was sick while this 100-year-old man was full of life, I made a note to ask him about his secret to health.
Niel’s house was a large, three-story home with a neatly kept yard and a wide-open garage door. I parked my car and walked up to the front door, expecting to see Niel waiting for me. But to my surprise, the house was empty, and the garage fully open—with no car. I called his phone, but got no answer. Had something happened to him? A few hours later, as I was contemplating the next steps at the local ice cream shop, my phone rang—it was Niel.
He explained that he had been busy at his veteran’s meetup, then at his doctor’s appointment, and running errands. You know, a typical day in the life of a 100-year old man. When I met him in person, I was struck by the warmth and energy that radiated from him.
Despite his age, he had the vitality and enthusiasm of a much younger man. As we sat down to begin the interview, I felt like I was talking to a friend.
From Webb to War and Back
Niel was around 18 years old when he first went to Webb Institute. Back then, Webb was located in the Bronx. He then served in Europe for approximately three and a half years during World War II, and witnessed the horrors of war firsthand.
After serving in World War II, now 22 years old, he returned to Webb and transitioned seamlessly back into college life, now at Webb’s new campus in Long Island, NY. “Webb has impacted my life in so many ways. It got me the job at Electric Boat. I led the repair of 16 ships on time and under budget. One of them was so under budget that my ship manager wrote a letter to my admiral for exceptional work and cost savings.”
Niel’s naval career was remarkable, earning him three Navy commendations within 18 months. He had repaired 16 ships, each on time and under budget. His achievements led to an unprecedented promotion, skipping three ranks to replace a lieutenant commander while still an ensign.
From childhood dreams to wartime bravery and family legacy, our centenarian, Niel Spillane embodies a century of resilience, dedication, and love.
A Life Beyond Accomplishments
But Niel wasn’t just defined by his accomplishments; he spoke warmly of his late wife, a social worker who believed in the power of human connection. He had even carved and painted a decorative statue to honor her. His grandchildren were thriving, one of them a proud Webb graduate, Colin Spillane ’13, who was following in his grandfather’s footsteps.
His voice grew animated as he talked about helping to establish the Honor Code that made Webb a safe and respectful space. Webb Institute’s Honor Council is a student-led organization responsible for upholding the school’s Honor Code. Students pledge to maintain the highest standards of academic integrity and personal conduct.
The Spillane family, came from all around the country to celebrate Niel’s 100th birthday at his house
in Mystic, Connecticut. It was a reunion to remember, filled with love, laughter, and cherished
memories.
Life Lessons from Webb
“Webb was unlike any other school. People are not competing – they’re actually helping one another graduate,” he said. I learned from speaking with him that there is no zero-sum game in the reality of life. Webb is a microcosm of life in general – the more you help others, the more you will get back. Niel talked about how everyone studied late nights at the library and explained concepts to classmates who were struggling so they didn’t have to stress alone.
I smiled as he told me about his memories and how Webb changed how he viewed the world as I’ve always believed that kindness and generosity tend to be reciprocated. And, here he is telling me about the valuable life lessons he learned in college. “Life isn’t about tearing others down to build yourself up. It’s about lifting each other up, knowing that by doing so, we all rise together. By collaborating and supporting one another, students are developing valuable life skills that will serve them well beyond graduation.”
The Secret to Longevity
As we wrapped up the interview, I didn’t forget my initial question on what his secret was to staying healthy and living up to 100, as I still wasn’t feeling 100 percent from the sushi two nights before. He left me with advice that was simple yet profound: “Don’t eat until you’re full—stop at 80%, and prioritize joy. Also, avoid nasty people. I don’t know if that’s a secret, but it seems to contribute to a fulfilling and healthy life.”
Despite the obstacles and challenges he’d faced for a century, Niel brimmed with joy. Articulate and sharp, he proved that age was just a number. At 100, he had just renewed his driver’s license for another eight years.
(In the collage below, explore Niel’s journey through time – capturing moments from his youth to celebrating his centennial year.)
Webb Institute Ranks Among Top 390 Colleges by The Princeton Review for 2025
GLEN COVE, NY – August 28, 2024 – Webb Institute (Webb) is proud to announce its recognition in “The Best 390 Colleges” for 2025 by The Princeton Review. This prestigious acknowledgment reaffirms Webb’s status as a premier college for students seeking an exceptional engineering education. Only about 15% of America’s 2,600 four-year colleges are profiled in the book.
In addition to a place among the top colleges, Webb excelled in several areas:
- #3 Most Accessible Professors: Webb’s commitment to fostering an intimate and interactive educational environment is reflected in this ranking. The accessibility of professors at Webb ensures that students receive personalized attention, enhancing their learning experience and academic success.
- #18 Students Study the Most: Webb has a rigorous academic environment where students are deeply engaged in their studies. This ranking shows how dedicated Webb students are to their education and future careers.
The Princeton Review’s “The Best 390 Colleges” guide profiles schools based on various criteria important to prospective students and their parents, including academics, campus life, and student body feedback. The Princeton Review also highlights how Webb provides real-world exposure to students with annual paid internships and 100% placement after graduation in industry or prestigious graduate programs.
“We salute Webb for its outstanding academics and many other impressive offerings. We recommend it as an ideal choice for students searching for their ‘best-fit’ college,” said Rob Franek, The Princeton Review’s Editor-in-Chief and lead author of The Best 390 Colleges. “In the profile on Webb, The Princeton Review editors praise the school for its rigorous academic program at an exceptional value.”
Webb continues to uphold its tradition of offering full-tuition scholarships to all admitted students and financial aid for other expenses to those with demonstrated need, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder bright young engineers.
The Princeton Review’s “Best Colleges” list for 2025 can be found here: https://www.princetonreview.com/college-rankings/best-colleges
About Webb Institute: Webb Institute is a unique, top-ranked undergraduate college specializing in naval architecture in marine engineering. It is the only full-tuition scholarship private undergraduate program of its kind in the country. Located in Glen Cove, New York, on the Long Island Sound, Webb prepares its graduates for careers in various sectors of the maritime industry and beyond through rigorous academics and practical engineering experience.
About The Princeton Review: The Princeton Review is a leading tutoring, test prep, and college admissions services company. Every year, it helps millions of college- and graduate school–bound students as well as working professionals achieve their education and career goals through its many education services and products. These include online and in-person courses delivered by a network of more than 4,000 teachers and tutors; online resources; more than 150 print and digital books published by Penguin Random House; and dozens of categories of school rankings. Founded in 1981, The Princeton Review is now in its 43rd year.
The Ties that Bind: Si Cong Chen ’23 on Bridging Worlds
At Webb, we are reminded of the remarkable stories that individuals have carved out. One great journey is of our Webb alum, Si Cong Chen, and how his pursuit of education forged his destiny to engineering and at Webb.
As a first-generation Asian American, Si Cong unlocked a world of opportunities through his thirst for knowledge. He got into one of the most difficult high schools in New York State- Brooklyn Tech, and later to our competitive Webb Institute for Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, where he received a full tuition scholarship allowing him to focus on #STEM and explore his passion in sustainable engineering.
Grateful for the opportunities that he was given, Si Cong wants to ensure that others have the same access to opportunities as he does. Read more about his story here:
What’s your name, and where are you from?
My name is Si Cong Chen, and I grew up in Brooklyn, New York. I am a first-generation Asian American.
How did you get to Webb?
Before Webb, I attended Brooklyn Tech, the largest high school in NY. I always had an interest in engineering, so I decided to study Mechatronics and Robotics there. Not long after, I realized I wanted a change of pace. I still enjoyed the technical aspects of engineering, but I also desired a career with more hands-on work. After my Prospective Freshmen (PF) visit to Webb, I learned about the different winter work periods students were exposed to at an early part of their careers. From there, I was convinced this was the place for my undergraduate studies.
What attracted you to Webb?
The sense of community at Webb really drew me in. I went tree climbing for the first time when I was visiting Webb. I became good friends with my host, Jonas who was a year above me at Webb. The bonding of classmates, the beach and the serenity of Webb made me feel at home.
What are some experiences that you remember at Webb?
For homecoming one year, the student body hosted a boat race. My classmates salvaged some parts from the Freshmen Boat Building Competition earlier that month and successfully assembled the remnants into a large wooden boat suitable for nine people. Though we did not win the race against the other classes, we managed to stay afloat for the entirety of the race—I think.
Why were you interested in the company you chose at Winter Work?
I was interested in surveying since I started at Webb but had little luck finding one during the peak of Covid. After contacting a few alumni, I was finally able to get a surveying internship with Sean Murphy, an alum from 2013. I worked at ABL Group / Offshore Wind Consultants located in New York City’s Financial District. The office was comprised of three different teams: maritime, engineering design, and offshore wind. With the maritime team, I had the privilege of crawling tanks, climbing my first pigeonhole ladder, and inspecting machinery equipment with a senior surveyor.
How do you feel your Asian heritage has influenced your decision to pursue a career in engineering?
Going to Brooklyn Tech, I noticed my classmates and friends were all studying STEM, and I decided to pursue it. Naturally, I found myself inclined to explore a career in STEM. While I cannot say my parents pushed me to get into engineering, they always encouraged me and my brothers to get a good education. The environment at Tech along with my parents’ support, sparked my passion for engineering.
What are some unique experiences or challenges you faced as an Asian American in life / school?
My cultural differences at Webb were most noticeable during mealtimes. One time I brought an aloe vera beverage which is a staple in the Asian community. My peers did not understand why I was drinking that; after all, aloe vera is used as an ointment for sunburns. Some tried it and liked it…others would not take their chances. It was a funny interaction for sure. I think the food choices are difficult to get accustomed to. I grew up on Asian food, and I love it.
What role do you think Asian American engineering students play in shaping Webb’s culture and contribute to promoting diversity here?
While at Webb, I was a member of the Minority Establishment of Webb (MEOW). We would occasionally cook different foods together including bubble tea, rice balls, and sushi. During one of the sushi events, I got experimental and created Si Cong special. I coated the sushi roll rice with crushed BBQ chips for an extra crunch. Although it was *allegedly* the crowd’s least favorite, I still look back on that event with fondness. I still laugh over countless events such as this one with my fellow Webbies.
How do you hope to give back using your engineering program to your communities?
My class donated a Senior Class gift of a scholarship for need-based incoming students, and I hope to continue to encourage people of different income levels to come to Webb without worrying about room and board costs.
I want to help others who are also like me and to be able to support need-based scholarships for incoming students, ensuring that Webb remains accessible to people from all walks of life. Webb prepared me for the corporate world, and I am very thankful for the opportunities it has given me—from the winter work internships to networking opportunities with the alumni association. I hope to one day become an alum that also generously gives others a helping hand.
A Toast to the 25th Anniversary of Wine 101 Tradition with Alum, Abbott Weiss
Webb Institute recently hosted the 25th anniversary of its cherished “Wine 101” event at the President’s House. This annual tradition brings together graduating seniors and alumnus, Abbott Weiss ’63, for an evening of wine appreciation and mentorship.
As a special milestone, this year’s event was marked by reflections from Dr. Weiss on the program’s enduring legacy. He spoke with great appreciation for President Ron Kiss’s initiative in creating the Senior Seminar Series and establishing Wine 101. Ron was a classmate, roommate, and lifelong friend of Abbott, and he brought all of his strong personal values with him to Webb in his term as President. Ron’s widow, June Kiss, is active in the Alumni Association and still connected with other members of the Class of 1963 in their periodic Zoom calls. Dr. Weiss explained that the formation of Wine 101 helped to bring him back to Webb. As a result, it fostered connections between current students and alumni, emphasizing the value of shared experiences and mentorship.
Wine 101 seemingly serves as a rite of passage for seniors, offering them a glimpse into the broader Webb community and the possibilities that lie ahead. The event has become a cherished tradition, symbolizing the school’s commitment to fostering lifelong connections and providing students with valuable insights as they prepare to embark on their next chapter.
At the end of the class, Dr. Weiss raised a glass, “The Webb community is a special one, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to give back through Wine 101. I thank President Martecchini and his wife, Laurie, for continuing this tradition so gracefully. I’d also like to acknowledge Gailmarie, who has faithfully guided us through all these years and events. Cheers to another 25 years!”
Webb extends its gratitude to Abbott for his continued dedication to the Wine 101 program and celebrates a tradition that has spanned a quarter of a century. Here is a toast to Abbott and our graduating class.
Commencement Awards for the Class of 2024
AWARDS AND AWARDEES
TOTAL PERFORMANCE
CHAFFEE MEMORIAL PRIZE
Maximilian S. Mah
for general excellence
{Sponsored by Trustee Emeritus, Joseph J. Cuneo ’57}
LEADERSHIP AND ETHICS
PATRICK S. MATRASCIA GOOD SHIPMATE AWARD
Kohta J. Erdos
for working unselfishly and in harmony with classmates
{Sponsored by President Emeritus R. Keith Michel ’73 & Family}
THE CHARLES KURZ II (Hon.) COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD
Christopher S. Grieves
for exemplary commitment of service to others through volunteerism, community service, and civic outreach
{Sponsored by Charles Kurz II (Hon.)}
PAUL E. ATKINSON MEMORIAL PRIZE IN ETHICS
Alexander L. DeMeo
for ethical behavior
{Sponsored by Paul E. Atkinson Memorial Fund}
ACADEMICS
J. LEWIS LUCKENBACH MEMORIAL PRIZE
Matthew C. Coogan
for highest general average over four years
{Sponsored by the American Bureau of Shipping}
CHARLES A. WARD, JR. MEMORIAL AWARD
Richard S. Thill II
for excellence in Naval Architecture & Marine Engineering
{Sponsored by Chairman of the Board, Bruce S. Rosenblatt and the Ward Family}
JENS T. HOLM ’41 MEMORIAL AWARD
Richard S. Thill II
for excellence in marine engineering
{Sponsored by George A. Gilmore ’57}
KEELER MEMORIAL PRIZE
Matthew C. Coogan
highest average in mathematics
{Sponsored by Past Trustee, Dr. Luther Tai}
RICHARD A. PARTANEN HUMANITIES AWARD
Richard S. Thill II
for excellence in humanities
{Sponsored by the Class of 1987}
CURRAN MEMORIAL PRIZE
Kenna R. Reed
for most outstanding and consistent improvement
{Sponsored by Past Trustee, John A. Malone ’71 and his wife Amy}
THESIS
STEVENSON TAYLOR MEMORIAL PRIZE
Kenna R. Reed & Kadi Zheng
for excellence in the senior thesis
{Sponsored by the American Bureau of Shipping}
LEWIS NIXON MEMORIAL PRIZE
Alexander L. DeMeo & Addison R. Pope
for excellence in the senior thesis
{Sponsored by Trustee Emeritus, John W. Russell ’67}
Webb Institute Celebrates 128th Commencement with Inspiring Keynote by Tech Entrepreneur, Diane B. Greene
GLEN COVE, NY – June 17, 2024 – Webb Institute, a leading institution for naval architecture and marine engineering, celebrated its 128th commencement ceremony this weekend, marking a significant milestone for its graduates and the maritime community. The event featured a keynote address by Diane B. Greene, renowned technology entrepreneur, co-founder, and former CEO of VMware, who shared her inspiring journey and insights on leadership, innovation, and the importance of lifelong learning.
Diane B. Greene being awarded her Honorary Doctorate Degree from Webb President, Mark Martecchini and Board Chair, Bruce Rosenblatt
In her address, Ms. Greene emphasized the power of following one’s passion and embracing curiosity. Reflecting on her own path, she recounted a pivotal moment when a professor encouraged her to pursue naval architecture at MIT, a decision that ultimately shaped her career. “That little bit of encouragement to stretch myself beyond where I imagined my capabilities was enormous in altering the course of my life,” she shared. “I still aspire to help others as that professor helped me.”
Ms. Greene’s journey through MIT was marked by a blend of rigorous academic pursuit and personal passions. “At MIT, I learned rigor and developed a new area of interest—computer science,” she said. “Meanwhile, I was having fun on the water while, unbeknownst to me, continuing to develop my leadership skills through running regattas.” She emphasized the importance of curiosity, noting, “Humans are born with innate curiosity. Over my entire career, it has remained one of the most important qualities I look for when hiring someone.”
Drawing parallels between her experience and the education at Webb Institute, Ms. Greene praised the graduates for their depth of knowledge. “I have to say the more I learn about Webb Institute, the more I see that much of the value of your education is that you’ve all gone deep,” she remarked. Sharing advice she often gives to entrepreneurs, she said, “When I advise entrepreneurs, I always remind them that they are, or need to be, the world expert in what they are building.”
President of Webb Institute, Mark Martecchini speaks at its 128th commencement
Ms. Greene also touched upon the exciting future of naval architecture, highlighting opportunities in simulation, automation, new materials, and manufacturing processes, all leading to greater sustainability. “Naval architecture today seems to have amazing opportunities…All these things will help move the world forward,” she concluded.
Webb Institute’s President, Mark Martecchini expressed his pride in the graduating class and gratitude to Diane Greene for her inspiring words. “Our graduates are set to make significant contributions to the maritime field and beyond. Diane Greene’s journey and insights have given them the inspiration and guidance to excel in their careers.”
About Webb Institute:
Webb Institute is a top-ranked institution dedicated to preparing students for successful careers in naval architecture, marine engineering, and fields beyond, with every student receiving a full-tuition scholarship. With a rigorous curriculum, hands-on internship experiences, and a strong emphasis on innovation, Webb Institute graduates are highly sought after by leading companies in the maritime industry.
Webb Institute Mourns the Loss of Philanthropist, Mathematician, and our Guest Lecturer, Jim Simons
Webb Institute mourns the loss of Dr. James (Jim) Simons, a renowned mathematician, investor, and philanthropist known for his groundbreaking work in geometry and topology. He founded Renaissance Technologies, one of the world’s most successful hedge funds. Dr. Simons, along with his wife Marilyn, generously supported a wide range of causes, including Webb Institute.
In 2011 and 2014, the Simons made gifts to Webb in support of scholarships. These contributions have helped our students to pursue their education and careers in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering. Despite Dr. Simons achievements in finance, he told us what brought him to Webb – his interest in boats. As he stated “I have had a lot of boats, and I have loved every one of them.”
Dr. Simons captivates the audience with his Zeien Lecture on “Mathematics, Common Sense, and Good Luck.”
John Russell ’67, Dr. Simons, and former Webb President Robert C. Olsen share a moment in the auditorium following Dr. Simons’ presentation at Webb.
In April 2011, Dr. Simons presented at Webb as a Zeien Lecture speaker. His lecture, titled “Mathematics, Common Sense and Good Luck,” was a testament to his passion for mathematics and his ability to make complex ideas accessible to a wide audience. His visit to Webb was a memorable event for us. The appreciation he had for boats guided his work, as he stated in the lecture.
“First, don’t run with the pack. Try something different. Secondly, find great partners, people who are really good at what they do. Third, be guided by beauty. Mathematics involves beautiful and elegant systems, and a business organization can be a beautiful system if you have bright people who are motivated and work well together.”
“Jim Simons was not only a brilliant mathematician and a successful entrepreneur, but he was also an incredibly generous philanthropist. His contributions to education have had an impact on countless institutions, including ours. His legacy will continue to inspire and support future generations,” stated Webb Institute’s President, Mark Martecchini.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Marilyn and the entire Simons family. Jim’s contributions to mathematics, finance, and philanthropy will continue to inspire and support future generations. And his advice to be guided by beauty in our work still lives on at Webb—to evoke a sense of love and romance in everything we do.
The Wallin Legacy at Webb: Appreciation of Arts & Culture
Written by Anthony Zic, Director of Development
The rigors of a Webb education are well documented–based on a systems approach to engineering and designed to be of such quality and depth that all graduates are prepared to enter the profession and hit the ground running. Our Winter Work term provides students with firsthand experience in the industry and encourages attitudes and work habits that contribute to a sense of professional excellence.
As important as these academic tenets are to professional success, there is more to the Webb experience, some of which is less tangible and less STEM-focused. The Wallins, Homer PG’62 and Katherine, better known to the Webb family as Norm & Kitty, had a unique appreciation for the arts and culture. Their hope was “that Webb students could experience an enjoyable time in the Big Apple.” Beginning in 2012, in recognition of Norm’s 50th anniversary of graduation from Webb’s graduate school, the Wallins established the Webb Cultural Enrichment Endowment.
In the years to follow, this fund would subsidize various cultural outings, particularly in the performing arts in the New York area, just as Norm & Kitty hoped it would. Among other memorable events, Webb students had the privilege of experiencing Broadway plays such as To Kill a Mockingbird, Hadestown, Death of a Salesman, and Hamilton. Webb students were also fortunate to witness a performance by the New York Philharmonic at the Lincoln Center, visited the Guggenheim Museum, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
The impact of these experiences on Webb’s student body is profound. The student-named Culture Club had a patron in the Wallins that would provide invaluable experiences for years to come. Spencer Margosian ’23 served as the Custodian of this club, a role he sought out in the later stages of his second year at Webb, after related activities resumed from a COVID-19 pandemic hiatus. In his hand-written letter to Mrs. Wallin, Spencer recollects,
once again alive and well…the Club is thriving… Your contributions have brightened the lives of more Webbies than I can list.”
“The Webb training and personal connections were valuable and helpful in my duties in the Navy and later in the commercial marine industry. Every time I sensed the need to change jobs, a better one was presented. My 21 years at Keystone Shipping encompassed a golden era, professionally and personally rewarding,” said Norm Wallin PG’62. Norm passed away in 2021, leaving behind his wife Kitty, who continues to generously support the college.
In addition to establishing the Webb Cultural Enrichment Endowment, Norm and Kitty’s gifts enabled Webb to purchase two Lasers and restore the Steinway Grand Piano in the Visconti Reception Room. They also provided funding to refurbish the fountain in the Cuneo Courtyard, which was named as the Wallin Fountain, in memory of their son, LCDR William V. Wallin. Webb is grateful to Norm and Kitty’s for their extraordinary generosity.
Webb Culture Club’s latest adventure to watch Sweeney Todd in New York City.
Renewed Investment in Webb from the Robert D.L. Gardiner Foundation Drives a Banner Admissions Cycle
Since 2018, the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation has played a major role in supporting Webb’s ability to attract and retain the brightest students, regardless of financial means, by providing need-based grants to students for their room and board costs. With contributions of $325,000 over two multi-year grants, the Foundation’s giving helps make a Webb education truly accessible to all.
Webb is experiencing a banner year in admissions with a 32% increase in total applications over the last three years, a 34% increase in female applicants and an over-50% increase in students expected to require financial assistance if admitted, with an increasingly diverse applicant pool and growing numbers of first-generation college applicants. The final makeup of the Class of 2028 is still developing – the admissions process is underway, including student exams, interviews, and overnight visits which give prospective students an appreciation for what makes Webb special – and the support of our donors plays a key role in Webb’s commitment to meeting the full demonstrated need of Webb students.
The Honorable Peter Fox Cohalan, Trustee of the Gardiner Foundation
“The Robert D. L. Gardiner Foundation proudly recognizes and supports Webb Institute’s steadfast commitment to maritime heritage and educational excellence. The Foundation is eager to further William Webb’s mission of attracting and educating tomorrow’s leaders in an extraordinary learning community focused on engineering and design in the maritime field. We are proud of our continued partnership with Webb,” said Kathryn M. Curran, Executive Director of the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation.
Students who have benefited from Gardiner Foundation grants echo a collective “thank you” for helping make their Webb education possible. While each Webb student is awarded a full-tuition scholarship, supported by contributions from generous Webb donors which augment the endowment, room and board costs represent a significant outlay for many families, and this additional support is vital to a successful Webb experience.
Amongst current and future Webbies are voices that resonate with hope and gratitude. Some know their life’s path and just need support to navigate it:
“During my college search, I was actively looking for schools with strong naval architecture programs. I then met a graduate of the United States Naval Academy and asked his opinion on what he felt was the best school in this discipline. Without hesitation, he said, ‘Webb Institute!’ After my first visit to Webb, it immediately became my school of choice,” said Rayne Duff ‘25.
Others come to Webb with a passion for engineering and are later exposed to the tight-knit maritime world. Meet Karissa Nieves ’27, whose passion is matched at Webb by the support she receives. “My favorite part of being here is the Webb community. For once in my life, I feel accepted by my peers and have found people that I really connect with.”
Webb’s unique Winter Work internships have just wrapped up, with our students gaining real-life experience working across the United States and around the world. Not only do they come back with tales of discovery, adventure, and friendship, but the internships play a key role in securing the 100% job placement that Webb has become known for.
We thank the Robert D. L. Gardiner Foundation for being part of the Webb legacy that is shaping the future, one student at a time.
The Honorable Peter Fox Cohalan with a group of Webb scholarship honorees.
Professor Michael Martin named the Lester and Mandell Rosenblatt Professor of Marine and Electrical Engineering
Webb Institute is proud to announce the promotion of Michael Martin to the position of Professor and his naming as the Lester and Mandell Rosenblatt Professor of Marine and Electrical Engineering. Professor Martin has continuously demonstrated his commitment and expertise in the realms of marine engineering.
Professor Martin received a Bachelor of Engineering from Manhattan College and a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT). He brings over 26 years of experience as a marine electrical engineer, specializing in a wide range of systems. His deep understanding of applicable codes, standards, and engineering practices has been instrumental in his role at Webb. His innovative work on the Hart Island Replacement Ferry, designing an all-electric, battery-operated ferry, emphasizes his commitment to sustainable engineering solutions. His work with the U.S. Marine Corps, developing an energy model for forward operating bases and a water conservation system prototype, further highlights his expertise in energy efficiency and sustainability.
At Webb, Professor Martin has taught a range of courses, including Programming with Applications, Physics III – Electricity and Magnetism, and Electrical Engineering I and II. His role as a thesis advisor has guided students through significant research projects.
Professor Martin has been a leader in the naval architecture and marine engineering community, serving as Regional Vice President with the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers (SNAME) in the New York Metropolitan section. Professor Martin served as past Regional Vice President with SNAME and past Chairman of the New York Metropolitan section.
We look forward to Professor Martin’s continued contributions and leadership in shaping the future of Webb.