Introduction of Dr. James S. C. Chao, Honoree at United States Coast Guard Foundation Tribute dinner

by Thomas Allegretti, President of Coast Guard Foundation

Pier 61

New York, NY

Dr. James S.C. Chao is the Founder and Chairman of the Foremost Group, an American shipping company that charters out some of the largest ships that transport dry bulk products to markets around the world. But the Foremost Group is not just a business; it is an emboldening and inspirational mission. One that has been guided for decades by the ethos of Honor, Integrity, and Performance.  This ethos guides the Company and guides its ships.

As Founder and Chairman, Dr. Chao has been a strong proponent of safety at sea and has made significant contributions to American prosperity, and the strength of the United States. He is also a pioneering steward of the oceans. Dr. Chao took steps to promote sustainability, promote ecologically sound practices and protect the environment long before others began to even think about it. As an early adopter of green technology, the Foremost Group initiated and incorporated fuel-efficient designs and technologies in its fleet of ships which are ranked among the world’s most eco-friendly bulk carriers.  In keeping with its deliberate focus on maintaining young ships with the latest green technology, the average age of ships in its fleet is five years old.

The recipient of many honors and awards, Dr. Chao is well known for his leadership and contributions to the maritime industry. He received the United States Coast Guard Academy’s inaugural Scientiae Cedit Mare award and the American Bureau of Shipping’s inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award.  He was inducted into the International Maritime Hall of Fame at the United Nations, awarded the Seamen’s Church Institute’s highest honor, the Silver Bell Award, and presented a Lifetime Achievement Award by Lloyd’s List America. Dr. Chao has also been honored with the Ellis Island Award. the Horatio Alger Award of Distinguished Americans the United States Supreme Court and the recipient of many Honorary Degrees.

Dr. Chao is a generous and devoted philanthropist and he and his late wife, Mrs. Ruth Mulan Chu Chao, have dedicated their lives to promoting education. Thousands of students have been awarded scholarships through their family foundations. This commitment to education includes supporting initiatives for U.S. Coast Guard Academy cadets and the children of Coast Guard members through the Coast Guard Foundation. They also support scholarships at Harvard Business School, Harvard College, St. John’s University, SUNY Maritime, Massachusetts Maritime, among others.

We’re honored to recognize Dr. Chao for a legacy of excellence and dedication.