Rev. Dr. Jean Smith on January 1, 2003 assumed the position of Executive Director of Seamen's Church Institute of New York & New Jersey (SCI), the not-for-profit organization, which provides spiritual, personal and professional aid to the well-being of merchant mariners. Formerly headed by the Rev. Canon Peter Larom, the organization will continue to flourish on the foundation that Rev. Canon Larom instilled with new leadership by an experienced leader, who also happens to be the first woman to hold such a position at SCI. Since grabbing the headlines more than one year ago with its highly praised relief effort in wake of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, SCI remains at the forefront of the international maritime industry as an organization that lends a helping hand to those in need.