A message from
Bill Muller
Chairman, Senior Vice President
As we reflect on the accomplishments and milestones of the past year, it is with great pride and enthusiasm that we present the annual stewardship report that defines our commitment to sustainability and responsible corporate citizenship. In the face of global challenges, our organization has embraced a proactive approach to environmental, social, and governance responsibilities. From innovative eco-friendly practices to community engagement endeavors, this year has seen the embodiment of our values in action. As we delve into the details of our stewardship programs in this end-of-year report, we celebrate the collective efforts that have contributed to our success and positively impacted the world around us.
Company-Wide Initiatives
At Moran Company, a culture of corporate responsibility is deeply ingrained through our company-wide stewardship initiatives. These initiatives extend beyond the workplace and engage every employee. Our goal is to contribute to meaningful causes as well as cultivate a sense of purpose and unity among employees.
American Heart Month and Wear Red Day
In February, we celebrated National Wear Red Day across our company sectors, supporting American Heart Month. In addition to our nationwide visual support, we educated our employees on heart-healthy habits. We made a corporate donation to the American Heart Association in honor of all our employees.
USCG Foundation Run to Remember
Moran Towing Corporation proudly honored Memorial Day by encouraging all company-wide employees to participate in the Coast Guard Foundation’s “Run to Remember” event. Held in remembrance of the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation, we aim to commemorate the sacrifice of our military service members while supporting the families they left behind. Employees participated individually or as a team to run, walk, swim, hike, or any activity to honor Memorial Day 2023.
Pictured: MER Randolph, MA team
Earth Day
Employees participated in our annual Earth Day Challenge. During April, our employees engaged in various activities such as tree planting, community trash collections, and educational workshops to promote eco-friendly practices. Earth Day contributes to a healthier planet and strengthens our sense of corporate social responsibility, fostering a collective commitment to preserving the environment both within and beyond the workplace.
Pictured: Global Diving Seattle, WA Team
To see all of our Earth Day initiatives, click below!
Breast Cancer Awareness
October marked a month of unwavering commitment throughout our organization to support Breast Cancer Awareness. What started with a simple pink ribbon on a tugboat in 2014 quickly grew into our entire fleet, proudly painting our 'M' pink. Our efforts have expanded into a company-wide initiative through runs, walks, donations, and visual support.
From the Pacific Northwest to Texas to Florida and up to New England, our teams participated in various activities to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Our wellness committee shared weekly wellness tips throughout the month, and our mariners, divers, and environmental and industrial field teams visually demonstrated our support on vessels, vehicles, and other assets throughout the company. The company-wide Wear Pink Day brought together teams of employees who wore pink in solidarity.
Pictured: MER and Moran Jacksonville, FL Teams
To see all of our BCA initiatives, click here!
Organizations served:
Green Business Benchmark
Moran maintained our Gold Rating with the Green Business Benchmark. This sustainability rating system helps Moran prioritize and execute the most impactful initiatives for our organizations and the environment. Each year, we examine and adopt principles and practices demonstrating our superior commitment to conserving the environment.
Committing to a "green" business is an ongoing, transformative process. Our company's reputation is increasingly held to higher standards, and stakeholders seek businesses committed to sustainability. We believe our commitment to this certification will continue to positively influence our internal operations and our role in the global community externally. Sustainability goals and practice builds lifelong improvement and growth so MER and its subsidiaries can prosper in a changing world and serve their communities for generations. The Green Business Benchmark seal recognizes our contribution to making the environment healthier for our customers, employees, and community. We appreciate the continued support of all MER employees toward this achievement. We will continue to seek "green" initiatives to strengthen our accreditation with the Green Business Benchmark.
It is with great pleasure and gratitude that we spotlight our corporate philanthropy, industry-related and environmental giving initiatives that have exemplified our unwavering commitment to making a meaningful impact beyond business boundaries. In the spirit of giving back to the communities that sustain us, our organization has dedicated resources and efforts to philanthropic endeavors that align with our core values. From supporting charitable causes to fostering industry advancements, our collective contributions have transcended corporate objectives, leaving a lasting imprint on society and our professional landscape.
Corporate Philanthropy
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
We again support The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society® (LLS) Student Visionaries of the Year this year. The LLS mission is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease, and myeloma and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS funds lifesaving blood cancer research worldwide and is the voice for all blood cancer patients seeking access to quality, affordable, coordinated care.
The LLS Student Visionaries of the Year is a groundbreaking philanthropic leadership development program for high school students. Every year, courageous young leaders embark on an exciting 7-week journey with a goal to create a world without blood cancers, striving to earn the Student Visionary of the Year title.
Baking Memories 4Kids
Drummac once again supported Baking Memories 4Kids this holiday season with cookies for our railroad crews working around the clock every day to keep our clients' passenger trains running safely and on time. Baking Memories 4Kids, a nonprofit 501c3 foundation, utilizes the money generated from cookie sales in a very special way: they make memories. From each container sold and every donation received, children with life threatening and terminal illnesses and their families are given an all-expense paid vacation to ALL the theme parks in Orlando, Florida.
Pictured: Drummac Manassas, VA Team
Environmental Support
North Carolina Coastal Federation
Our Mainstream Charleston office provided funding to the North Carolina Coastal Federation to continue its efforts to clear North Carolina waterways of abandoned, derelict vessels. Mainstream is proud to have had a great partnership with the North Carolina Coastal Federation (NCCF) since this project began in April 2021. This project has meant more to our team than initially expected – furthering our commitment to protecting the environment and great work from NCCF. We are proud to continue to do our part for a cleaner, healthier coast.
Pictured: Mainstream Business Manager Rich Coley (right) and NCCF Representative Ted Wilgis (left)
Alaska Sealife Center
Global Diving Anchorage is again supporting The Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward, Alaska. Our Alaska Global Team also periodically performs projects for the Sealife Center. The Center generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska's marine ecosystems.
The Alaska SeaLife Center is the only facility in Alaska that combines a public aquarium with marine research, education, and wildlife response.
While primarily dedicated to marine research and education, the nonprofit Center is the state's only permanent marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation facility.
Long Live the Kings
A huge thank you to everyone who joined the Global Diving team and participated in the 'Survive the Sound' event by Long Live the Kings. This event raised awareness about the critical state of our Puget Sound wild Chinook salmon and steelhead populations, and we also helped fund the vital research that's making a difference. We're proud to be part of such an important cause.
Global is also honored to partner with Long Live the Kings in their ongoing fish passage project aimed at restoring the salmon and steelhead populations in Washington state. Long Live the King’s (LLTK) mission is to restore wild salmon and steelhead and support sustainable fishing in the Pacific Northwest. Since 1986, they have been advancing science, improving management, and implementing solutions to balance the needs of fish and people.
Pictured: Ben Hertford, Project Engineer, Mack Mason, Project Engineer, Madeline Rennie, Marketing Specialist, and Dirk DeGroot, Director of Major Projects.
Industry Alignment
League of Railway Women
Drummac is pleased to have become a sponsor of the League of Railway Women in 2023. Founded in 1997, the League of Railway Women (LRW) is committed to improving the railroad industry by connecting and cultivating women in rail.
Their mission is to advance women's representation, recognition, and opportunities, thereby promoting diversity and improving the business results of the railroad industry. We are excited to have our Drummac women employees get involved and advance their industry knowledge with the LRW.
SUNY Maritime
This year, Moran Towing Corporation and The Great Lakes Towing Company jointly established a scholarship in honor of Joel Koslen. Joel was the former President of Moran San Juan. He had many years of friendship and service to Great Lakes, and the maritime industry. The scholarship aims to recognize members of the Regiment of Cadets pursuing a USCG license who exhibit outstanding academic and regimental standing and actively participate in the Summer Sea Term.
The 2023 recipient was Chelsea Gostomski, a senior from Bel Air, Maryland, pursuing a bachelor's degree in marine operations with the USCG unlimited tonnage engine license. Chelsea expressed her gratitude, understanding the significance of this scholarship in supporting her educational career and aspirations. With this award, Chelsea is empowered to continue her pursuit of excellence in the maritime industry, carrying forward the legacy of Joel Koslen.
Pacific Railroad Preservation Assoc.
The 2023 recipient of Drummac's annual Chris McLarney Award was Zev Brown. According to his nomination, Zev is always willing to do whatever the company requires without question and with professionalism. He has a great working relationship with Drummac’s clients and has successfully trained new Drummac mechanical staff.
This work ethic captures the essence of the award named after the late Portland OR Supervisor Chris McLarney. To further commemorate the award, a donation is made to the organization founded by Chris McLarney, the Pacific Railroad Preservation Association. The PRPA is a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization dedicated to restoring, maintaining, and operating historic railway equipment of the Pacific Northwest.
Northwest Maritime Center
Members of our Seattle-based crew were thrilled to have supported the fundraising efforts of the Northwest Maritime Center to enhance maritime experiences for youth in the region.
Located in Port Townsend, WA, the mission of the Northwest Maritime Center is to engage and educate people of all generations in traditional and contemporary maritime life in a spirit of adventure and discovery
Pictured: Josh Francingues, Project Manager, Mack Mason, Project Engineer, Lara Mayer, Estimating & Proposals Manager.
USCG Foundation Fire Pit
In early 2023, Moran's contribution to the USCG Foundation resulted in the construction of an outdoor fire pit at Station Sandy Hook, NJ, dedicated to a fallen crew member. Our team, including Moran's Regional Vice President-Northeast, Nathan Hauser, General Manager of Moran NY/NJ, Vinnie Catanese, and Sales Coordinator, Hope Stone, had the privilege of visiting the station, interacting with the crew, and witnessing the significance of the newly built fire pit.
Arthur Foss Tug
Northwest Seaport Maritime Heritage Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and interpreting the maritime heritage of Puget Sound and the Northwest Coast and developing maritime-based educational programs and opportunities for the broad community. The Global Diving team in Seattle provided pro bono ship husbandry services to the Arthur Foss Tug, the oldest wooden floating tug in the world!
Operation Lifesaver, Inc
Every year, our Drummac employees volunteer their time to help spread awareness of track and train safety. Many Drummac employees become certified safety trainers for Operation Lifesaver. They conduct local presentations to schools, civic groups, and local organizations to bring attention to this vital safety message in the communities where they work and live. This safety message aligns with our core values and the industry we serve.
Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI) is a nonprofit organization nationally recognized rail safety education leader. Since 1972, OLI has been committed to preventing collisions, injuries, and fatalities on and around railroad tracks and highway-rail grade crossings, with the support of public education programs in states across the U.S.
Pictured: Alex Jones, Drummac East Regional Manager
Community Impact
As we reflect on the accomplishments and collective spirit of our workforce over the past year, it is with immense pride that we spotlight the success of our employee-driven Community Impact Grant Program. This initiative, fueled by the passion and dedication of our employees, has not only transformed lives within our communities but has also become a shining example of the positive change that can arise when individuals come together with a shared commitment to social responsibility. This program underscores the power of our employees' generosity and their ability to drive meaningful community impact.
Feed the City
Through a Community Impact Grant submitted by Sarah Stasiak in our MER Louisville location, the local office employees conducted a food drive and helped serve meals to support Feed the City. They ended up donating about 15 box fans for the community this summer, as well as about 75 pounds of non-perishable foods.
The mission of Feed the City, based in Louisville, is to assist those in need by providing community-based services like food, clothing, and shelter in a stabilizing environment.
Tornado Relief
Through the United Way of Johnson County and local food bank, The Refuge, MER Franklin IN collected and delivered much needed personal supplies, like diapers, toothpaste, and flashlights, to families affected by tornados in Johnson County, IN, near our MER Franklin office. The supplies were collected by the local office employees and supplemented by a MER Community Impact Grant.
Upton Men’s Club
With a Community Impact Grant submitted by Matt Ronzio, National Acoount Executive, Randolph, we were able to sponsor the Annual Cornhole Tournament to raise funds to support Upton's Men's Club. The Upton Men's Club exists to provide support to the community where public funds fall short. The Club plans and executes activities such as senior dinners and community cleanups and raises funds through special events such as auctions, golf tournaments, and civic events.
Meals on Wheels
Several times a year, our Water Recovery team assists the United Community Outreach Ministry with Meals on Wheels for Jacksonville. Meals on Wheels is a nationwide network of nonprofit, community-based programs that provides nutritious meals and safety checks for local seniors in their homes. We graciously respect and thank this organization for its excellent, selfless work. We take pride in our teams' contributions towards bettering our community and always lending a helping hand.
Pictured: UCOM Mission Partners along with WRI Team- Faith Cooner, Amanda Kimball and Louis Renteria.
Howard Viar Memorial Fund
MER employees participated in the Howard Viar Jr. Memorial golf tournament. The Howard Viar Jr. Memorial Fund provides resources to "low country" children and families needing medical support, equipment, and supplies. The tournament sponsorship was funded by a MER Community Impact Grant submitted by Brad Sexton, Business Manager in Savannah.
Pictured: MER Savannah, GA Team
Side by Side Charter School
Side by Side Charter School in Norwalk, CT's mission is to ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed and that every voice is heard. They engage students in a challenging and relevant curriculum of the highest standard that will reflect and enhance their diversity and promote their unique gifts and talents.
For many years, Adam Norris with Moran in New Canaan has volunteered at the school as Chairman of the Finance Committee and as a member of the Board of Directors.
With funds from a Community Impact Grant, the school was able to update/replace the broken water fountains in the lower school area with modern chilled/filtered water stations.
Fairfax Junior Baseball Club
Michael Marquez was involved with Fairfax Junior Baseball Club – Drummac provided support for the Club's scholarship program that allows all kids to participate.
Fairfax Junior Baseball Club is a volunteer run, privately incorporated, community based, family oriented recreational program whose mission is to promote the sport of baseball and softball through increasing knowledge of the sport’s fundamentals, supporting good sportsmanship, and developing the player as an athlete.
Windwalkers Therapeutic Riding
Stewardship Manager Ashley Dopf has been an active volunteer for Windwalkers Therapeutic Riding for several years. She was pleased to be able to support the program and its clients with a Community Impact Grant this year.
WindWalkers is an equine-assisted learning and therapy center that provides a variety of equine therapies to aid in the development and growth of those with challenges, be they physical, neurological, emotional, behavioral, or psychological.
Pictured: Ashley Dopf, MER Stewardship Manager
Golf4Autism
Tye Vikery and his family have been involved with volunteering and serving the Independence Academy in Indianapolis.
Through a Community Impact Grant, we supported the Golf4Autism event to raise funds that will be used for tuition assistance to economically underserved families of children with autism in Indianapolis and surrounding communities.
The mission of the Independence Academy is to create the most inviting multidimensional school that provides autistic students with access to an evidence-based academic curriculum, sensory-friendly amenities, personal, social, and emotional awareness skill building, and life-affirming success.
Freshwater Mollusk Conservation Society (FMCS)
Charlie Morgan, Malacologist, Mainstream Murray, KY, continues to represent the company at the Freshwater Mollusk Conservation Society's (FMCS) annual workshop. In addition, Mainstream will help sponsor the event with funds from a Community Impact Grant. The workshop was designed to assist conservation professionals in learning or improving sampling and data interpretation techniques, to bring newer professionals up to speed with standardized data collection methods, and to allow more seasoned professionals to learn more advanced methods for freshwater mussel population and community assessment.
Good Sports
MER Safety & Compliance VP Leanne Stegman is running the Boston Marathon. She has chosen to support the nonprofit Good Sports as part of her efforts. The Good Sports organization drives equitable access to youth sports and physical activity by helping children in high-need communities to achieve their greatest potential on the field and in life. With a Community Impact Grant, she can contribute to her fundraising goals to help this vital organization.
Holiday Community Impact
We are pleased to highlight the impactful corporate support and employee volunteerism initiatives undertaken during the holiday season. Our company recognizes the significance of giving back to the community. Throughout the holidays, we engaged in various philanthropic efforts. Employees actively participated in volunteer activities, ranging from assisting local charities and collections to participating in events for underprivileged communities. As we reflect on the year's achievements, our dedication to corporate social responsibility remains a cornerstone of our values, encapsulated by the meaningful impact created through holiday volunteerism.
United States Coast Guard
Global is honored to have had the opportunity to participate in this year's USCG Stuff the Stocking Event. The Coast Guard Family and Community Friends' Organization provides handmade stockings filled with small basic and educational needs and new practical essentials, gifts, and toys for homeless children. They serve infants to teens living in or reached by Puget Sound shelters.
Lowcountry Orphan Relief
Our South Carolina Mainstream team had the opportunity to volunteer at Lowcountry Orphan Relief. Employees collected and sorted donations as well as fill care kits with necessary items for children from area shelters, foster care, and those removed from the custody of their parents. The Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of South Carolina Children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse, or neglect.
Pictured: Mainstream, Charleston, SC Team
Edith Marie Foundation
WRI employees donated 20 backpacks, several books, and school supplies collected by our employees to be given to needy students through the Edith Marie Foundation in Jacksonville, FL. In addition, a Community Impact Grant donation was made to support this amazing organization.
Pictured: Faith Cooner, Amanda Kimball, Terrie Cooper, Jeff Maylon
Daniel House Foundation
This holiday season, our MER Jacksonville team joined to give back to the communities serving us with a toy drive for the Daniel House Foundation. The drive included toys and essentials for children, teens, and young adults. MER understands that all families and individuals need to feel necessary during the holidays and take pride in contributing in all possible ways. Daniel, founded in 1884, is the oldest child-serving agency in Florida. They strive to ensure the most vulnerable children and families are provided with the skills and support necessary to become resilient, healthy, contributing citizens. They offer programs addressing child welfare, adoption, independent living, mental health, case management, and juvenile justice.
Pictured: Irina Tafro, Keith Harmon and Lauren Arbuckle
Food Bank of Alaska
Food Bank of Alaska works with food industry partners to salvage food that would otherwise go to waste from grocery stores, wholesalers, producers, farmers, and the fishing industry. They also collect food donated by community members and administer government food programs. With employee donations and a Community Impact Grant, Global Anchorage supported this vital organization's mission during the holidays.
Maui Strong
The Maui Strong Fund provides financial resources to support the immediate and long-term recovery needs of the people and places affected by the devastating Maui wildfires. Global is working in Lahaina Harbor on Maui in response to the 2023 wildfires. Global further supported the community through a donation and employee toy drive to provide joy to local children during the holidays.
Sacramento Food Bank
Sacramento Food Bank is the largest nonprofit provider of basic human needs in Sacramento County. SFBFS has evolved from a food pantry to a provider of services for lifelong Sacramento residents—as well as immigrants and refugees who have chosen to make Sacramento their home. The Global Diving employees in Sacrament were pleased to support this organization with funds for food and perishable items.
Toys for Tots
Mainstream Charleston and MER Newtown employees supported Toys for Tots this holiday season by collecting and donating toys to their local chapters. Through the gift of a new toy or book, Marine Toys for Tots programs bring the joy of Christmas and sends a message of hope to America's disadvantaged children. Toys for Tots has distributed 652 million toys to 291 million deserving children.
Stewardship Report 2023
Have questions or want to get more involved in our Stewardship program, reach out to Stewardship@MoranEnvironmental.com