Shipping magnate George Economou, the founder of DryShips Inc. and one of the 100 most influential figures in shipping according to Lloyd’s List, was the keynote speaker at the Webb Institute’s 2025 commencement ceremony June 21 on the waterfront campus at Glen Cove, N.Y.
“It is good to feel like being home despite not having studied here,” said Economou, according to an account from Webb officials:
“Economou - an MIT graduate, founder of DryShips Inc., the TMS Group, and the owner of Cardiff Marine - is one of the most influential figures in global shipping. He delivered a very personal and wide-ranging address that championed the values of resilience, curiosity, and bold leadership”
Economou, a billionaire who grew up in Greece and now has dual Greek-American citizenship, told the graduates “I want you to know how blessed you are to be here today, graduating from an American institution and living in this country.”
“Fall in love with the choices you will make. Don’t think about having, but about becoming,” said Economou. “Along with yourself, make others smile. Humor is an essential quality to navigate through human experience. Pursue your choices and goals with vigor, with love, with hard work. Find a cool job, and money will be the reward.“
Webb Institute officials saw Economou’s address as “a powerful moment for the graduating class and reaffirmed Webb’s place at the forefront of the resurgent U.S. maritime industry.”
“George Economou’s story–from Greece to MIT to global maritime leadership - is a testament to what’s possible when passion meets perseverance,” said Mark Martecchini, president of the Webb Institute. “His visit reminds us that Webb’s core values of excellence, community, and opportunity are not just ideals; they are living truths our graduates carry into the world.”
Webb graduates complete an intensive academic program of a dual bachelor’s degree in naval architecture and marine engineering and eight months of hands-on industry internships. Webb officials say Economou’s commencement address “marked a defining moment for Webb, reflecting the growing national and global spotlight on shipbuilding and maritime innovation, as well as Webb’s integral role in shaping its future.”
