Fall 2023

Passion and personal connection drive generosity. That is the theme of the 35-year relationship between Dr. Brinton Sprague and SVC’s Marine Technology program. In 1988, Dr. Sprague became Dean of Whidbey Island Campus and soon selected Mike Swietzer as the lead faculty member of the Marine Technology program. Together, they built the program with strong student enrollment and excellent relationships with the local marine industry. The growth has been sustained under the guidance of current instructor, Mike Beemer. 

Initially, the fledgling Marine Technology program was based at a cramped and isolated building outside Oak Harbor. In 2010, the program moved into the beautiful Marine Technology Center in Anacortes, which boasts instructional classrooms and mechanical and lab space.

After retiring from SVC, Dr. Sprague served both Cascadia Community College and Peninsula College as interim president. Now fully retired, his love for SVC and Marine Technology continues. This summer, Dr. Sprague donated the Lady M, a 25’ Ranger Tug powerboat, valued at $62,500, to the program for student hands-on training. Mike welcomed the new boat.

“Students will spend the next few months learning about and refurbishing the boat,” said Mike. “When they are done, it will be auctioned to the public to provide additional funding for program improvements.”

“This pleases me so much,” Dr. Sprague commented. “I have always had a soft spot in my heart for the Marine Tech program. I am sure they will make the most of the Contribution.”

 

To explore ways you can support SVC’s programs, skagitfoundation.org/support-svc-foundation.