Board Positions Nominees

Deana Atteberry '11

I am truly honored to be nominated for the position of President of the Sea Aggie Former Student Network (SAFSN). My journey with TAMUG began in 2014 when I first learned about the Sea Aggie Former Student Network, and I was eager to get involved. During my time as a student, I saw an opportunity to enhance funding and raise the profile of this remarkable school. SAFSN has made significant progress in this area, particularly in elevating TAMUG’s reputation beyond Galveston. Through the establishment of an endowed scholarship, which has since grown into the Legacy Endowment, we have earned recognition not only at TAMUG but also in College Station. In recent years, the Association of Former Students and other organizations have turned to SAFSN for inspiration and guidance in growing their own networks. Since its founding in 2013, our Board has worked diligently to expand and strengthen our network.

As President, I am committed to continuing my support for the Board as we work to achieve our many ambitious goals. We are focused on increasing social events throughout the year, creating valuable networking opportunities, and broadening our reach. Our Board hopes to accomplish this through a Speaker Series with dynamic guest speakers, Family Day events, the annual golf tournament, tailgates, and the expansion of chapters beyond Galveston County. We are also exploring new ways to engage our members. We’ve worked hard to ensure that the foundation of this organization will stand the test of time and remain a lasting presence for future generations.

As a third-generation Aggie, the traditions of Texas A&M have been integral to my life. My grandfather shared stories of the Corps and the band, and I knew from a young age that I belonged at A&M. But I also had a deep passion for the ocean, and it was through my grandfather’s encouragement to attend Sea Camp that I discovered my true calling in Galveston. There, I found my HOME. My college years were marked by active involvement and invaluable learning from professors who were experts in their fields. I want every student at TAMUG to experience and cherish the unique gift of our island campus.

I am married to James Atteberry ’12, a former Yell Leader, and together we have two wonderful children, Delylah (9) and Joltyn (4). Our family, spanning multiple generations, treasures our time spent in both Aggieland and Galveston.

The Sea Aggie Former Student Network is already doing outstanding work, and I am excited to help lead the effort in achieving these vital goals.

Stephanie Moore '95

The SAFSN is a remarkable organization that fosters Aggie networking while fulfilling a philanthropic mission by giving back to our university through various initiatives. As Secretary, I am dedicated to strengthening the efforts of the Board of Directors and the members of both SAFSN and the SAFSN Student Organization, making a meaningful impact on these essential priorities. 

Devin Paul '17

My name is Devin Paul, MARA Class of 2017 and I have served on the Board for the Sea Aggie Former Student Network for the last 7 years in various roles and capacities. I have a great understanding of the mission associated with the SAFSN and am actively working to further enhance our reach, and involvement in industry and among former students. 

I am interested in the Technology Officer role, as I have spent considerable time and effort in building out our current website, and online store for our members. I believe my continued efforts will only continue to improve how SAFSN can provide up to date communication with our members and an enjoyable experience for those seeking to get involved.

My main goal is to further enhance our communications capabilities, so we can provide messaging and opportunities for all 14,000+ former students of Texas A&M Galveston. 

I also would like to provide an enjoyable online experience for anyone who comes to our website to find what they are looking for, and to highlight Sea Aggie Owned Businesses so we can support our graduates' businesses. 

Jason Tieman '97

James Nash '88

James Nash has 30+ years of experience in the maritime, port, land transportation and logistics segments of the transportation industry. He holds a MARA Bachelor Degree 88’ and Master of Maritime Administration and Logistics from Texas A&M University at Galveston 2015. James started his career in operations and has since held various challenging commercial, sales and operations positions with container carriers, breakbulk ocean carrier, third party logistics, port authorities, terminal operator, and ship agency. Currently is the Director, Maritime Affairs with the West Gulf Maritime Association (WGMA. He is responsible for working with and on behalf of WGMA’s membership of steamship owners, operators, agents, stevedores, terminal operators, and stakeholders, as an active advocate and liaison for the maritime industry. He is actively involved in many industry associations, committees, and boards throughout the Gulf Coast Region.

I have always been an advocate for TAMUG (officially and unofficially) and due to my current position with the WGMA, the Industry Liaison Officer is a perfect fit because I am already attending industry events/functions, sending out a WGMA Daily Report which includes a calendar of events which I am currently sharing with the SAFSN Association….this would just make it official.  My goal would be to help grow the association and bring awareness to all association related events. There are plenty of Sea Aggies to tap into and the Best way to get involved is to Jump in with Both Feet!

Christopher Stickney '12

Hello, my name is Christopher Stickney, Fightin' Texas Aggie, class of 2012, and I am running for the position of Secretary, Industry Liaison. I majored in Marine Transportation and earned my USCG Third Mate license while attending Texas A&M University at Galveston. Although I am a new member of the Sea Aggie Former Student Association, I have been involved with the University for many years. I was first introduced to the association during Hurricane Ike in 2008 when the campus was relocated to College Station. Without the support of the association, the transition would not have been as smooth, and I wouldn't have been set up for success during my freshman year.

Although I have not held any official roles within the association, I bring experience in management, communication strategies, and leadership, having served as Master at Arms and Adjutant on Senior Line staff during my tenure. Currently, I am a Business Partner for Sustainability and Decarbonization, as well as an active member of the Chamber of Shipping America, where I serve on their Board of Directors.

I am interested in the position of Secretary, Industry Liaison because of the experience and knowledge I have gained over my 10-plus years in the maritime industry. Through this experience, I have built valuable and lasting relationships that I believe can help strengthen the connection between the association and our former students. My goal is to raise awareness and grow our current membership by leveraging my passion for the University and the industry. I look forward to collaborating with the board to promote engagement and inspire future generations to give back to Texas A&M University at Galveston. Thank you for your consideration. 

 Joes Ruiz '94 

Jose A. Ruiz-Garcia, MART ’94, has been a member of the Sea Aggie Former Student Network (SAFSN) for several years. Since graduating from the Galveston campus, have maintained management positions within the maritime industry, including providing legal advice. Within the last few years have attended several of the SAFSN’s annual golf tournaments and all-hands class reunions since relocating to New Orleans, LA and now to Galveston, TX. Currently Assistant Commandant at the Texas A&M Maritime Academy.Accepted nomination to serve as SAFSN’s University Liaison Officer in order to connect former and current students, and continue improving the SAFSN’s impact and presence at the Galveston campus in light of current staff role. With your support, look forward to serve as a member of SAFSN’s Board and its committees, and all Aggies by the Sea, former and current.

George "Wade" Howell '02

 Class of 2002, Graduated with a degree in Maritime Transportation in Dec of 03’ & followed on with Masters of Maritime Business Administration in Logistics Graduating in Summer of 2023.  This would be my first position with the SAFSN, however I regular attend watch parties, Golf tournaments and support when needed.  As the current Captain on the training ship I am continuously representing the campus, current past and future students, As the university liaison to the network I would better be able to Aline the needs of both the Galveston Campus and the network supporting both organizations and bridge the communication between the two.  

Continue to be a strong representative for the SAFN and help grow the organizations membership and participation at events.    

After Graduating from TAMUG, I proceeded to have a long career at sea, sailing in all deck capacities on my license, majority of my time with Military Sealift Command.  I first returned to TAMUG in Maritime Transportation department in 2010 – 2011, than continued sailing until finally rejoined the faculty at the tail end of COVID as the Bridge Resource Management instructor and served as the summer Chief Mate onboard the TS Kennedy.  When the position for full time Captain became available, I was asked to and excepted the position where I currently take great pride in the hands-on training we are providing to the next generation of Sea Aggies as they proceed into today’s industry.