Fordham University Hosts Key Planning Session for Fleet Week NYC

As the city prepares for Fleet Week New York, Fordham University is again playing a central role in ensuring the success of this iconic event. The university recently hosted over 100 representatives from the military, law enforcement, and emergency management agencies for a crucial planning session at Fordham’s Lincoln Center campus.

This year’s Fleet Week theme, “Honoring the Past, Defending the Future: 250 Years of Sea Service Excellence,” marks a milestone in celebrating the history and contributions of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard.

“Fleet Week gives the community an opportunity to come see us and learn more about their Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard team,” said Beth Baker, director of public affairs for Navy Region Mid-Atlantic. “Working with Fordham year after year has been amazing. They provide us with the space to bring together all the key partners—law enforcement, port operations, aviation teams—and ensure everything runs smoothly.”

Since 2017, Fordham has hosted this pivotal planning session, a vital collaboration that brings together a range of agencies to coordinate efforts for Fleet Week. This year’s event will take place from May 21 to 27, welcoming approximately 1,400 Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen to New York City. It will feature ship tours, tactical demonstrations, and public performances by military bands and ceremonial units, offering New Yorkers a chance to engage with those who keep the country safe.

For city officials, Fleet Week is more than just a celebration—it’s a chance to forge meaningful connections with those who’ve served. Commissioner James Hendon, who leads NYC’s Department of Veterans’ Services, said his team plans to have a strong presence at events to “not just say thank you for your service, but to also connect veterans and their families to important services,” such as healthcare, housing, employment, and education.

“Fordham is a rock-solid partner,” he added. “They’ve broken the mold by creating an institution so committed to doing right by those who serve.”

As Fordham’s Office of Military and Veterans’ Services continues to enhance its support for military-connected students, Matthew Butler, senior director, reflected on the university’s ongoing commitment to the military community.

“We’re proud to continue hosting this planning session and playing a role in Fleet Week’s success,” he said. “Our work doesn’t stop here; it’s part of our broader mission to provide a welcoming environment for our military-connected students and to strengthen our ties with the broader military community.”

With Fleet Week just around the corner, Fordham Rams can look forward to a fun-filled week of celebration, reflection, and education. For more information, visit the official Fleet Week New York website.

About the Office of Military and Veterans’ Services at Fordham University: Fordham University’s Office of Military and Veterans’ Services (OMVS) supports veterans, service members, and military-connected students as they transition from military life to college and into professional careers. Through personalized support, benefit navigation, career development, and a strong community network, OMVS ensures student veterans thrive academically, socially, and professionally. As a proud Yellow Ribbon Program participant, Fordham is committed to honoring those who served by investing in their success, on campus and beyond.