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Rear Adm. Zeita Merchant of the U.S. Coast Guard will headline Marine Log’s Top Women in Maritime Celebration with a keynote address on December 2 at The National WWII Museum in New Orleans.
Now in its second year as an in-person gathering, the event will honor 20 outstanding women across the maritime industry for their leadership and career accomplishments. Guests will enjoy an evening of networking, cocktails, and recognition of the 2025 award recipients inside the museum’s U.S. Freedom Pavilion, home to restored warbirds and historic artifacts.
The Top Women in Maritime Awards spotlight professionals from diverse backgrounds and career paths, including shoreside management, vessel operations, and education. Honorees are selected annually through reader nominations, and their stories are featured in Marine Log magazine, online, and through video interviews. The celebration has grown rapidly since its launch, with record attendance anticipated this year.
Merchant currently serves as the Coast Guard’s Assistant Commandant for Workforce Management, where she oversees personnel policy, assignments, and benefits for military and civilian staff. Previously, she commanded both the Coast Guard’s Personnel Service Center and Sector New York, leading multi-jurisdictional emergency response operations.
Her distinguished career also includes leadership roles at Marine Safety Unit Chicago, Marine Safety Unit Texas City, and Sector Miami, as well as service as a congressional fellow and strategic planner. She holds a Doctor of Business Administration, two master’s degrees, a Bachelor of Science in biology, and has completed fellowships at Harvard University and MIT.
Among her many honors are two Legion of Merit awards, multiple Meritorious Service Medals, the Captain David H. Jarvis Inspirational Leadership Award, and civic recognitions that include two honorary doctorates.
This year’s premier association sponsor is Women in Maritime Operations (WIMOs), with WISTA USA and Women Offshore returning as supporting sponsors. Additional sponsorship opportunities remain available.
