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Morgan Dawicki

My name is Morgan Gifford Dawicki, and I’m running for the United States Senate – not as a Democrat or Republican, but as an Independent, because I believe the two party system is not working.

I come from a long line of working people. My family came to America from Ostrołęka, Poland, and London, England, not by choice, but because they had to. They were fleeing hardship and persecution. Some were farmers, others were seafarers – people who worked with their hands, who knew what it meant to survive through hard work, faith, and grit. Even though they came from different denominations, Catholic and Protestant, they were united by the sea and by the dream of building a better life in America.

That spirit lives on in my family today. Over the years, we have helped tens of thousands of people find good paying jobs on, in, or near the ocean. From mariners to veterans to young people just starting out, we believe in giving back and the power of hard work.  Our family motto is: “Semper Rederre” – To Always Give Back.

I come from a long line of working people. My family came to America from Ostrołęka, Poland, and London, England, not by choice, but because they had to. They were fleeing hardship and persecution. Some were farmers, others were seafarers – people who worked with their hands, who knew what it meant to survive through hard work, faith, and grit. Even though they came from different denominations, Catholic and Protestant, they were united by the sea and by the dream of building a better life in America.

That spirit lives on in my family today. Over the years, we have helped tens of thousands of people find good paying jobs on, in, or near the ocean. From mariners to veterans to young people just starting out, we believe in giving back and the power of hard work.  Our family motto is: “Sempre Rederre” – To Always Give Back.

I am a captain, a teacher, and someone who knows what it’s like to run a small family business. I know what working families are going through because I watched my parents build something from scratch. I’m not running to play political games; I’m running to bring people together and to give them hope. Especially my generation.

Massachusetts has always led the way in American history, that is why we are called the Spirit of America. Let’s show America how to lead again with decency, common sense, and hope. Let’s start a Movement for a New Washington – one built on mutual understanding, trust, and an undying commitment to We the People.

If you’re tired of the division, the ugliness of attacks on each other as neighbors, friends, and family and are ready for something better, I hope you’ll find a home in my grassroots campaign.

With love,

THE FAMILY BUSINESS

“Honor the Mariner”

Morgan serves as Chief Operating Officer of Northeast Maritime Institute – College of Maritime Science (NMI), the only private maritime college in the United States—a family-founded institution created by his parents, Eric and Angela Dawicki. What began as a small, respected training center has grown into a nationally and internationally recognized college, offering an Associate of Applied Science in Nautical Science degree and Continuing Education programs. Today, NMI is known for preparing the next generation of hard working mariners.

In his role as COO, Morgan oversees operations, strategic initiatives, digital learning platforms, and curriculum development, while also serving on the Board of Trustees and teaching in the Nautical Science Department. His leadership has helped guide the launch of major institutional projects, including NMI’s fast-growing online education program and the creation of the Center for Ocean Policy and Economics (COPE°), an international policy think tank working at the intersection of environmental stewardship, workforce development, and ocean governance.

Morgan’s deep respect for the maritime community and for the people who make their living on, in, and near the sea is what first sparked his belief in the power of education to create opportunity. It’s this belief that continues to guide his work today: building systems that open doors for others, strengthen communities, and prepare America for the challenges ahead.

THE GLOBAL STAGE

Understanding of International Diplomacy

Outside of his work at NMI, Morgan has served as the Director of International Relations for the Dominica Maritime Registry. In this role, Morgan oversees key areas such as treaty compliance, marine casualty investigations, and the development of policy responses to maritime sanctions violations. He has also served as a delegate to the United Nations International Maritime Organization (IMO), where he has participated in issues like illegal fishing, climate impacts, and shipping regulation reform.

Working alongside regulators and diplomats from around the world, Morgan has gained firsthand experience in how global systems work and more importantly, how they can be improved. His ability to assess complex frameworks, strategically advocate for fair solutions, and work for common sense solutions has helped him develop a knack for policy making.

EXPERIENCE ON THE OCEAN

America’s Youngest Tall Ship Captain

In 2017, at just 21 years old, Morgan became the youngest licensed tall ship captain in America at the time, serving as Captain aboard S/V Fritha, a majestic, traditionally rigged brigantine. He conducted sail training and team-building programs for youth. As a youth himself, he had the distinct pleasure of working with the Fairhaven Project, a conflict resolution initiative for Palestinian and Israeli high school students who sailed onboard S/V Fritha together.

His experience in sail training gave him a passion for education and inspiring others to get outside their comfort zone and learn new things.

His experience at sea continues to shape his outlook—merging seamanship with diplomacy, education, and community service.

Educational & Community Background

Focused on People and Policy

Morgan holds a Master of Public Administration from American University, where he completed the prestigious Key Executive Leadership Program, and a Bachelor of International Affairs with a focus on conflict resolution from George Washington University. His academic journey prepared him to think critically, lead ethically, and work across differences to solve complex problems.

During his time in Washington, D.C., Morgan sharpened his skills in public service at the U.S. State Department’s Office of Policy and Public Outreach. There, he played a role in organizing the 2016 Our Ocean Conference, which brought global leaders together around marine protection, and worked on diplomatic permissions for cultural exchanges during the historic U.S.-Cuba détente, an experience that showed him the power of people-to-people diplomacy and strategic communication.

After graduating from college, Morgan chose to return home to Fairhaven, Massachusetts, where he continues to serve his community. He currently chairs the Fairhaven Charter Committee, helping lead the effort to develop the Town’s first charter. He is also the founder of Civic Engagement Night, an event that brings people from different political backgrounds together to help drive communication and mutual understanding.

READ MORGAN'S BLOG

Independent Thinking

Subscribe to Morgan's blog! Learn more about Morgan's worldview and his stance on current events.

In his weekly Substack blog, Morgan writes candidly about leadership, community building, and the maritime sector. His reflections blend humor, humility, and a drive to challenge the status quo, inspiring others to think critically and compassionately about the world around them. 

About the Logo

Morgan chose a humble logo that pays homage to his family and community heritage. The silhouette of the ship is based on the Charles W. Morgan, the last surviving American whaling ship, for which Morgan is named after.

The whaling industry was the lifeblood of the American economy and was one of the first integrated industries in the world. People from all walks of life, every religion, race, and creed were able to work in the whaling industry and earn a living. Diversity made the whaling industry great and successful.

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