News Release
FOR RELEASE - September 24, 2025
Contact: Shawn Balcomb, press@aapa-ports.org
American Association of Port Authorities
Phone: (202) 792-4033
www.aapa-ports.org
Washington, D.C. — The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) today announced new leadership and members elected to the Foundation for Seaports of the Americas Board of Directors. The Foundation for Seaports of the Americas promotes research and education on topics relevant to ports of the Americas and provides opportunities for charitable fundraising, including the Port Employee Emergency Relief Fund, which delivers aid to port workers and their families impacted by natural disasters and emergencies.
The new board members will play a pivotal role in shaping the future direction of the Foundation, including strategic oversight, fund allocation, research, and fundraising.
Joseph Morris, CEO and Port Director of Port Everglades, has been elected Chair of the Foundation Board. Morris brings extensive experience in port leadership and a commitment to strengthening the maritime community across the Americas.
"I am honored to become the Chair of the Foundation Board. Together, we will work towards enhancing the impact of our ports’ contributions and ensuring their continued growth and success," said Joseph Morris, CEO and Port Director of Port Everglades.
Diahann Howard, Executive Director of the Port of Benton, has been elected Vice Chair, bringing valuable expertise and dedication to advancing the Foundation’s relief and professional development initiatives.
In addition to the Chair and Vice Chair, the following leaders will serve as members of the Foundation for Seaports of the Americas Board for a two-year term:
"It is a privilege to serve alongside dedicated industry leaders who share a commitment to strengthening the resiliency of our ports and the communities they support. Together, we are building out the Foundation's capacity to meet tangible needs at challenging moments for our maritime industry and workforce,” said Cary S. Davis, President & CEO, AAPA.
Administrative Officers of the Foundation will include Shannon McLeod, AAPA Vice President of Member Services as the Foundation Director, Charissa Meikle, AAPA Vice President of Finance, as the Foundation Treasurer and Sumi Cross, AAPA Business Operations Manager, as the Foundation Secretary.
The Foundation for Seaports of the Americas was established by AAPA in 2010 as a separate 501(c)(6) with its own governance and conducts fundraising solely for charitable purposes independent of AAPA’s 501(c)(4) mission and activities. In the past 5 years, the Fund has provided more than $270,000 to over 500 employees at various ports to assist with immediate critical needs.
"We are excited to welcome our new board members and look forward to their contributions in advancing the Foundation's mission," said Shannon McLeod, Director of the Foundation for Seaports of the Americas.
For more information about the Foundation and how to support its mission, please contact Shannon McLeod, Director, Foundation for Seaports of the Americas.
About AAPA:
The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) is the unified voice of port leaders and maritime industry partners across the Western Hemisphere which serve a vital role in job-creation, international competitiveness, and economic prosperity. Connecting small business owners, retailers, and manufacturers to the global marketplace, AAPA member organizations advocate for national policies and infrastructure investments in support of a resilient global supply chain and a positive impact on the way people live, work, travel, and engage in commerce.
