Thirteen students from seven nations, including three U.S. Navy military and civilian personnel, received the highest level of academic certification available in hydrography during a ceremony held at the University of Southern Mississippi's Gulf Park Campus, Aug. 4.

Capt. Brian D. Connon, director of the Maritime Safety Division, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, and a 2000 graduate of the program was the keynote speaker.

The Joint International Hydrographic Applied Science Program (JIHASP) is a partnership between the University of Southern Mississippi and the U.S. Navy. The program is one of only two Category A (CAT-A) certification programs in North America recognized by the International Hydrographic Bureau. The Naval Oceanographic Office and its subordinate Fleet Survey Team -- both located at Stennis Space Center, Mississippi -- provide critical equipment, expertise and students for the program.

Hydrography is the area of science devoted to studying, describing, and mapping oceans, lakes and rivers, especially for navigational uses. U.S. Navy hydrographers conduct surveys of ports and harbors around the world to ensure safe navigation of Navy ships during exercises and operations. They also support humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts following natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes and tsunamis.

"Hydrography and related nautical charting enables safety and effectiveness of ships, submarines and other vessels," said Capt. Rich Delgado, chief of staff for Commander, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command, "but it also enables forward presence of our Navy with our partners, the global navy of navies to serve and protect the global economy and international security. Hydrography and nautical charting capabilities provide a common and essential core function for all maritime nations to protect its seaborne interests."

Delgado, a 2002 graduate of the program, presented the Hydrographer of the Navy's Education Award for the 2015-2016 class to Royal Netherlands Navy Lt. Karel Buizer. The award, presented to one student each year, recognizes academic and practical performance.

Commander, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command is also designated as Hydrographer of the Navy.

U.S. Navy graduates included Lt. Weston Coby, Michael Emmer and Lt. Jocelyn Fox, all members of Fleet Survey Team. Other graduates are from Nigeria, the Netherlands, Bahrain, Mauritius, Saudi Arabia, as well as the U.S.

This year marks the 17th graduating class of the program. In June 2011, the International Board recertified the JIHASP program for another six years. In addition to receiving their CAT A certificates, graduates also earn a Master of Science in hydrographic science from the University of Southern Mississippi.

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