Rear Admiral John A. Okon
Rear Admiral John A. Okon, USN (ret), is President of Maritime College. He was appointed by the SUNY Board of Trustees in June 2024 and assumed the leadership post in July 2024, becoming the 12th President of the College.
A native of Syracuse, NY, he is a retired Naval Officer with over 33 years of service. In the Navy, Rear Admiral Okon served as a Surface Warfare Officer, Meteorology and Oceanography Officer, and Information Warfare Officer. He commanded Naval Antisubmarine Warfare Center, Yokosuka, Japan; Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography Center, Monterey, CA; and Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command, Bay St. Louis, MS. He was also the Navigator of the Navy, Hydrographer of the Navy, and Oceanographer of the Navy.
Rear Admiral Okon graduated from Maritime College in 1991 with a Bachelor of Science in Meteorology and Oceanography, Naval Postgraduate School in 2003 with a Master of Science in Meteorology and Physical Oceanography, and Naval War College in 2007 with a Master of Arts in National Security Studies.
He is married to the former Valerie Gessner of Catskill, NY, Maritime College class of 1992.
A Message from the President 8/25/25
Maritime College Family,
As your President, it is my distinct honor to welcome you to the 2025–2026 Academic Year at THE Maritime College — First and Foremost.
This is an exciting and energizing time for our community. Students are returning from Summer Sea Term and internships, faculty are resuming their academic leadership, new students are joining us for the first time, and fall athletics are underway. The energy across campus is truly inspiring, and it reflects the strength, tradition, and forward momentum of Maritime College.
Over the past year, we’ve made remarkable strides in advancing our Voyage Plan. We proudly celebrated the 50th anniversary of women in the Regiment, honored our first African American graduate with a new student award, earned national recognition in both design and athletics, and launched a dynamic campus rebrand. We also raised over $3 million for scholarships and campus improvements — and this fall, we will welcome one of the largest incoming classes in our history into the Maritime Family.
As we set sail into this new academic year, I encourage you to embody our core values: Loyalty, Valor, and Leadership. Be present and engaged both in the classroom and throughout campus life. Take full advantage of the unique opportunities available across our Peninsula of Opportunity—from clubs and athletics to labs and experiential learning. This is the “secret sauce” that sets Maritime apart.
Your success is never yours alone. We are Maritime Nation—a community and a family committed to lifting each other up. If you ever need support—academically, emotionally, or in any other way—please don’t hesitate to reach out. You are surrounded by a strong network of support: faculty, staff, alumni, family, and fellow students who are here to help you succeed.
Our maritime culture is built on dignity and respect. No matter your role, faculty, staff, regimental or traditional student, treat everyone in our community with the respect they deserve. In doing so, you contribute to the inclusive, welcoming environment we continue to build together.
The next few months are full of excitement with several events across campus:
Fall Commencement – September 12
Admiral’s Dinner – September 16
Marine Society on New York Monomoy Races – September 27
Athletics Hall of Fame – October 4
Homecoming – October 17–18
As your President—and a proud alumnus—I’m thrilled to begin our second year together. Let’s continue to build on our progress, pursue our shared vision, and make 2025–2026 a year to remember.
Together, we rise—powered by purpose, growth, and unshakable optimism.
With utmost respect and admiration,
//S//
John
“Students First – Maritime Always”