The college's new custom-built research vessel was christened the RV John J. Freidhoff on May 11, 2009 in memory of Captain John J. Freidhoff, who died in a tragic diving accident in 2007. Captain John served as the college's field station manager and boat captain since 1994. He was also a lieutenant commander with the United States Coast Guard Reserve, which was leading the naming ceremony. The event was attended by over 100 people and was widely covered by local media.