A Message from the Executive Director

As August draws to a close, we reflect on a summer filled with growth, momentum, and purpose here at Chapman School of Seamanship. With our youth programs successfully completed, we welcomed 30 new professional students back to campus on August 4th, kicking off the next wave of mariner training.

This month’s newsletter highlights how we’re building on that energy. You’ll meet Kristine Grieco from Student Services, whose guidance helps every student stay on course. You’ll read about BM3 Adam Schay, a recent Chapman graduate who is now proudly serving in the U.S. Coast Guard. And you’ll learn how our Boating Essentials course continues to prepare recreational boaters with practical, confidence-boosting skills.

A Message From The Director of Development

Introducing Our Monthly Giving Club: The Chapman Burgee Society!

At Chapman School of Seamanship, our burgee is more than a flag - it is a symbol of why we exist: to prepare the next generation of mariners and open the water to all who dream of it.

That’s why we’ve launched The Chapman Burgee Society, a Monthly Giving Club for those who believe in sustaining the Chapman mission year-round. When you join, you become part of the crew steering Chapman’s future.

Chapman Staff Profile: Kristine Grieco

Senior Student Services Coordinator

This month, we’re proud to spotlight Kristine Grieco, our Senior Student Services Coordinator and one of the most trusted voices among students at Chapman. Kristine has been a dedicated member of our team since 2020 and plays a vital role in helping students navigate enrollment, licensing paperwork, dorms, and day-to-day campus life.

With a deep understanding of Coast Guard processes and a talent for problem-solving, Kristine ensures every student feels supported and prepared from the moment they arrive. Her attention to detail and student-first mindset make her an essential part of the Chapman experience.

Outside of work, Kristine enjoys drinking cocktails, exploring Florida’s coastal towns, and taking cruises with her friends.

Student Spotlight: BM3 Adam Schay

From Chapman Graduate to Coast Guard Boatswain's Mate

This month, we’re proud to highlight Boatswain’s Mate 3rd Class (BM3) Adam Schay, a standout graduate of Chapman School of Seamanship’s Professional Mariner Training program who used our lateral entry pathway to begin a rewarding career in the U.S. Coast Guard.

“From graduation at Chapman School of Seamanship, I followed my passion for the ocean to serve in the United States Coast Guard,” Adam says. “Without a doubt, it was the best decision I’ve ever made.”

Partnership Spotlight: National Safe Boating Council (NSBC)

Empowering Safer Boaters Through National Curriculum

Since launching the NSBC training programs at Chapman in November 2024, our partnership with the National Safe Boating Council - led by Executive Director Peg Phillips - has already delivered incredible results:



• 97 certifications awarded for NSBC Levels 1-4 across PMT students and adult learners

Tech Tips from Yamaha Master Technician Shane Bowlin

Through-Hull Fittings: Don't Let A Leak Sink Your Day

Through-hull fittings are critical to your boat’s safety - and often overlooked. A failed fitting can lead to slow leaks or catastrophic flooding.

Shane’s Quick Checklist:



• Inspect for corrosion or cracks, especially on plastic or aged fittings
• Check that seacocks open and close freely
• Use double hose clamps on any fitting below the waterline
• Watch for damp spots or stains in the bilge
• Ensure all hose connections are tight and secure

Pro Tip: Keep a wooden plug tied to every through-hull. In an emergency, it could save your boat.

Safe Boating Tip:

Understand Aids to Navigation

Navigational aids are the “road signs” of the water. Understanding them is essential for safe operation.

• Red, Right, Returning: Keep red buoys on your starboard side when returning from sea
• Green Cans: Stay to port (left) when inbound
• Regulatory Markers: White buoys with orange symbols indicate zones, restrictions, hazards, or no-entry areas
• Isolated Danger Markers: Red-and-black buoys with two black spheres mark localized hazards (more common in the Northeast)

Special Note: Intracoastal Waterway (ICW)

The ICW uses yellow overlays on standard markers:

• Yellow triangles = starboard side of the ICW (heading south/inland)
• Yellow squares = port side of the ICW (heading south/inland)

“Square to port, triangle to starboard” when going southbound on the ICW.

Know your markers - navigate with confidence.

Program Highlight: Boating Essentials

Taught by Certified NSBC Instructors & Licensed Masters

Whether you're a beginner or just need a refresher, Chapman’s Boating Essentials course is the perfect way to gain confidence at the helm.

This one-day, hands-on course includes:

• Basic navigation and chart reading
• Docking and line handling
• Safety equipment and onboard systems
• Emergency procedures and more

What sets this course apart? Every instructor is a certified NSBC instructor and a licensed Master mariner, providing professional-level instruction in a friendly, accessible setting.

Classes are held monthly aboard our training vessels. Space is limited - visit our website to sign up today!

Campus Updates:

Contract Signed For New Seawall & Floating Docks

Yesterday, Jim Allen, Executive Director of Chapman, joined Kelly Gunn of D.R.G Construction Group and Roger Baber of MCR Professional Engineering to officially sign the contract launching our waterfront improvements.

This project includes over 500 feet of seawall replacement and the installation of brand-new floating docks. It’s a major step in our mission to create a first-class waterfront campus - one that reflects the excellence of the training we provide.

We can’t wait to see this transformation unfold and to welcome students, partners, and the community to a revitalized Chapman waterfront!

Stay Connected With Chapman!