Co-Founder, Director,& Treasurer
Dan McSweeney leverages his expertise in communication and management to deliver results for government, nonprofit, and business entities. With graduate degrees in International Affairs and Business Administration from Columbia and Fordham, he is comfortable navigating complex challenges, but what sets Dan apart is his unique blend of military precision, gained from his experience as a Marine officer, and personal dedication to preserving the SS United States, a legacy he inherited from his father, a crew member on the iconic ship. As a co-founder of the SS United States Conservancy, Dan played a pivotal role in driving efforts to preserve this national treasure. Now, as a co-founder of the New York Coalition to Save the SS United States, Dan continues to be dedicated to preserving the SS United States, ensuring the ship remains an iconic symbol of American ingenuity and progress for generations to come.

Preservation Partner & Director

John Quadrozzi, Jr. is a parallel-entrepreneur. With passion & instinct for preservation, John's reach extends to the waterfront, where amongst his projects is his unwavering commitment to GBX™~Gowanus Bay Terminal.

He dubs Columbia St. Quay "on the edge of industry" for environmental restoration, education, and public access. It's there where in 2015 he made a pledge to provide a home for the US Flagship, SS United States, offering her a dock at no cost until viable. Despite the challenges and setbacks, this commitment has never wavered.
Today, John’s vision consists of reimagining the Columbia St. Quay, extending the existing quay's reach over the Rip-Rock Revetment to create a wharf, therefore creating even greater public space and allowing additional waterfront support activities. Furthermore, a new native tidal saltwater marsh - to be called Gota_ Park - is meant to quite literally be “on the edge of industry." This will turn the waterfront into a thriving hub of activity. With the SS United States at it's heart, this project promises to create a unique vibrancy while preserving a piece of our shared history, the beautiful, and one of a kind, SS United States! Additionally, John is a ship owner himself - lending a huge swath of knowledge to the Coalition’s efforts to preserve the Big U.

Co-Founder & Director
As the Founding Partner of Greenberg & Kaplan, LLP, James has spent over 30 years navigating the complexities of taxation law, with a keen eye for detail and a passion for justice - but his story didn’t begin in the courtroom, it began on the streets of New York City - where he fell in love with the rich history and vibrant culture of the five boroughs. As a writer and walking tour historian, James has brought the city's hidden gems and history to life through his words. He's the recipient of a Medal of Excellence from the U.S. Army Adjutant Reserves Corps Retired Officers for his efforts to promote General Horatio Gates, and he's co-founder and former President of the Lower Manhattan Historical Association. With his unique blend of legal expertise, historical knowledge, and community spirit, James is a driving force behind our coalition's efforts to save this iconic vessel.

Preservation Partner & Program Officer
Michael’s lifelong passion for, and career in, the maritime world began while cruising the oceans during his childhood. This early interest led him to serve six years in the US Navy, where he developed a deep appreciation for the intricacies of naval engineering. As a certified senior project manager, Michael has leveraged his expertise to lead high-profile projects, including submarine design work at the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics. He holds two degrees from the Rhode Island School of Design, and has furthered his education through studies at Harvard and the US Navy Civil Engineer Corps Officers School. As a President's Management Council Fellow, he has honed his skills in federal government management, contracts, and leadership. Michael's love for preserving historic landmarks, particularly the SS United States, is rooted in his personal experiences and professional expertise. He is dedicated to ensuring that this iconic vessel is protected for future generations, and he brings his unique blend of skills and passion to the preservation effort.

Chief Preservation Officer & Marketing Officer

Jason's interest in historic preservation began with a childhood fascination of Ocean liners, Egyptology, Archaeology and Paleontology. When visiting the Queen Mary, Jason re-discovered his passion for the iconic ocean liners of a bygone era. Upon learning about the preservation efforts of the SS United States, he decided to pursue a career in preservation. For a decade, Jason has explored and documented urban landscapes, developing a deep understanding of the complex relationships between cities, architecture, and community. His experience has given him a unique perspective on preserving historic sites and landmarks. As Chief Preservation Officer, Jason works to protect and promote the SS United States, bringing a background in videography, photography, and storytelling to the role. He is committed to finding innovative ways to share the ship's story and preserve it for future generations.

Secretary
Mary is the Founder and Executive Director of community based 501C3 nonprofit, QMI. Established in 2012, QMI focuses on preserving the RMS Queen Mary and her history. Hailing from Long Beach, Mary’s passion for history and ocean liners was sparked at an early age during visits to the Queen Mary with her father. Her great-grandfather was a US Navy Captain, and her grandmother worked as a riveter for McDonnell Douglas during WWII. History appreciation was a norm in her family. Regular visits to the Queen Mary and recognizing the need for community involvement led to the establishment of QMI. The foundation provides the global maritime community with a transparent platform for donations, regular updates on progress, and opportunities for involvement.

The historical connection between the SS United States and the Queen Mary has led to two onboard visits to the SS United States and its inclusion in two community QMI exhibits and events at the Queen Mary, all aimed at benefiting the SS United States. Mary has over 30 years of experience in marketing/Contracts management in the Fuel and alternative fuels industry.

She is dedicated to investing in the New York Coalition and supports the ethical and responsible preservation of the SS United States.

The designation of the ship on the National Register of Historic Places takes priority over economic interests. She believes that sinking history is unethical and all alternative opportunities should be considered.

Science Officer
As a geologist with a diverse career spanning amateur high-powered rocketry to environmental remediation, Matt’s unique blend of skills and experience has proven invaluable to the Coalition. His environmental expertise has been instrumental in navigating EPA regulations and protocols related to ship reefing, but his passion for SS United States goes beyond technical expertise – it's driven by a deep appreciation for America's history and symbolism. In his free time, Matthew moonlights as a Revolutionary War reenact. His ultimate dream is to see the SS United States restored to its former glory, serving as a powerful symbol of American ingenuity and progress – and what better 250th birthday gift to the nation? As a dedicated member of our crew, Matthew brings his remarkable expertise, passion, and dedication to the preservation of the SS United States.

Officer, Conceptual Rendering & Webmaster
Gregory is the Co-Founder VISUALL(a themed entertainment and story design company), he is a fifth generation real estate developer who specializes in unconventional projects, was formerly a Project Manager for a graphic design firm, managed a historic Pool & Spa Entertainment Facility for more than half a decade, and has a degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Flagler College. Perhaps most importantly, though, Gregory has always been obsessed with ships - particularly the SS United States - so much so, that he has the ship tattooed down the entire length of his right arm!

Gregory’s love of the Big U began as a child when he inadvertently stumbled upon the ship on a visit to her long-time home, Philadelphia. A little while later, his grandfather - who had spent years working on the docks along the shores of New York and New Jersey when the ship was in service - gifted him a framed print of William James Aylward’s art depicting the “Fastest Ship in the World” - a piece of art which hangs above his desk to this day. Gregory has been a collector of artifacts from the ship and a long-time donor to restoration and preservation efforts surrounding the vessel, as well as a rabid cruiser and passenger aboard many famous ocean liners, including the SS Rotterdam and Queen Mary 2.

Gregory utilizes his extensive experience in hospitality, themed entertainment, and real estate development to work closely with John and the team in developing the conceptual renderings of our vision for the future of the SS United States. Additionally, he is responsible for our brand identity, many of our graphics, and making our website a reality. Gregory believes in preserving the incredible ship that Gibbs & Cox designed more than 70 years ago for future generations to admire, just as he has all his life.

Education Officer
As Supervisor of Curriculum & Instruction at Tenafly Public Schools, David Di Gregorio oversees district-wide programs in the arts, technology, library media, and broadcasting for K–12 students. With more than 30 years of experience in education, including roles as a teacher and library media specialist, he has consistently championed innovative, student-centered learning environments that bridge disciplines and inspire civic engagement.  One of David’s ongoing initiatives integrates the story of the SS United States into high school education. This multifaceted program included a panel discussion featuring members of the Coalition to Save the SS United States, artwork depicting the SS United States, a STEM competition inspired by the ship’s engineering achievements, and an author visit detailing the culminating achievement of William Francis Gibbs—all designed to connect students with the ship’s legacy as a symbol of American innovation, design, and perseverance.  Under his leadership, students gain hands-on experience in media production, digital storytelling, and real-world project design—equipping them to be thoughtful, engaged citizens. His commitment to civic responsibility also extends beyond the classroom. As a former councilman, David has advocated for transparency, accountability, and the long-term well-being of the community. His public service reflects a deep belief in doing what is right, whether it involves preserving a historic landmark or ensuring a better future for the next generation.  David believes that education can play a pivotal role in preservation. Through this initiative, he is helping students not only learn history, but actively participate in shaping its future. By introducing young people to the significance of the SS United States, he fosters awareness, pride, and advocacy for a national treasure—and invites others to join in supporting this vital mission.

Advisor
Scott is a business education teacher with 20 years experience teaching courses ranging from Accounting and Finance to AP Macroeconomics. He’s had a passion for everything "nautical" since his first cruise in 1991 and hasn’t looked back since.
Scott is a 20+ year member of the World Ship Society-Port of New York and has previously served as a travel agent selling cruise vacations, earning a Certified Travel Associate credential from The Travel Institute. He has his BS in Management from Johnson & Wales University and received his MBA from Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Additionally, he holds certifications as both a School Business Administrator and School Supervisor, issued by the NJ Department of Education.
It's Scott’s mission to help preserve this piece of nautical history by educating the public of its national importance, artistic beauty, and historical value. 

Advisor
Peter Feinman received his B.A. in history from the University of Pennsylvania, a M.Ed. from New York University, an MBA from New York University, and an Ed. D. from Columbia University. After a career in banking, he founded the Institute of History, Archaeology, and Education. A key program was bringing teachers to historical sites in New York for professional development credit. His interests cross disciplinary boundaries including American history, ancient civilizations, biblical history, and New York history. He is the president of the Westchester Society of the Archaeological Institute of America and the Vice President of the American Research Center in Egypt, New York Society. He advocates for the importance of local and state history in the curriculum, community, and tourism and is the author of a blogs on The State of New York State History and The State of American Civics about current issues in history and politics. He is a contributor to the Five Views of the Exodus (Zondervan) and the author of The Exodus: An Egyptian Story (Oxbow). He is a member of the American Friends of Lafayette which planned and organized the Marquis de Lafayette Bicentennial in New York City and Westchester in August 2024 and July 2025.