As SUNY Maritime College’s 2026 Summer Sea Term (SST) continues, the Seamen’s Church Institute (SCI) is proud to mark the sixth consecutive summer that SCI Chaplains have served aboard in support of cadets during this transformative maritime training experience.

A cornerstone of the academic journey for cadets pursuing U.S. Coast Guard licenses, the Summer Sea Term combines classroom instruction with hands-on shipboard operations, immersing cadets in the daily responsibilities and challenges of life at sea. The voyage provides invaluable practical experience while fostering leadership, resilience, and professional growth.

SCI is honored to continue its longstanding partnership with SUNY Maritime by providing chaplaincy support throughout the voyage. By joining cadets at sea, SCI Chaplains offer a consistent pastoral presence, providing encouragement, guidance, and support during what is often one of the most formative and demanding periods of a cadet’s maritime career.

The voyage began with SCI Chaplain the Rev. Geoff Davis serving aboard for the first leg before recently turning over responsibilities to SCI Chaplain the Rev. Dr. Bill Allport, who is currently onboard. Reflecting on his experience, Davis shared, “Serving as a chaplain onboard has truly been a blessing. SUNY Maritime’s staff and leadership do an incredible job preparing the next generation of maritime professionals. I had the privilege of meeting aspiring mariners from all kinds of backgrounds, all connected by a shared passion for life at sea and a desire to serve something bigger than themselves. Walking alongside the cadets through both the highs and the challenges was one of the most meaningful parts of this time onboard.”

Later in the summer, Chaplain Associates Anne Reed and Jay Geisler. will relieve Allport and continue providing support for the remaining legs of the voyage.

During the current voyage, cadets and crew participated in a moving burial-at-sea ceremony held at sunset to honor naval historian and Americans with Disabilities Act advocate T. Garth Connelly. Led by the Rev. Dr. Allport alongside CAPT Zola ’92, the ceremony reflected the deep maritime traditions of remembrance and respect that unite generations of mariners. SCI extends its heartfelt condolences to Mr. Connelly’s family and loved ones.

SCI remains deeply grateful to SUNY Maritime College for welcoming our Chaplains aboard and allowing us to accompany and support the next generation of maritime professionals as they prepare for careers at sea.