USS Wisconsin SSBN 827 Association Celebrates Dr. Kelly Geurts as Ship’s Sponsor for Historic Keel Laying Ceremony

August 26, 2025

NORTH KINGSTOWN, Rhode Island — The USS Wisconsin SSBN 827 Association proudly announces Dr. Kelly Geurts, an esteemed Honorary Board Director and Ship’s Sponsor will preside over the official Keel Laying Ceremony for WISCONSIN (SSBN 827) on Aug. 27, 2025, at General Dynamics Electric Boat’s Quonset Point facility in Rhode Island.

The event symbolizes the official start of construction for the U.S. Navy’s newest ballistic missile submarine, highlighting the legacy of the Silent Service and Wisconsin’s maritime heritage.

"It's a profound honor to serve as our Ship’s Sponsor," Dr. Geurts said. "This submarine will embody the resilience and dedication of our Sailors, and I am deeply committed to supporting her future crews and their families throughout their journey."

Dr. Geurts, a retired educator with a distinguished 32-year career, is renowned for her dedication to inclusion, arts integration, and educational access. Her community service, coupled with her experience as a military spouse, deepens her connection to this milestone event. During the Keel Laying ceremony, the Ship’s Sponsor will authenticate the keel by welding her initials onto a metal plate. The plate with her initials will then be permanently affixed to the ship and Dr. Geurts will proclaim the keel to be “truly and fairly laid.”

Grace Stanke, Miss America 2023, Miss Wisconsin 2022 and Honorary USS Wisconsin SSBN 827 Association Board Director, will read Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers’ Proclamation of August 27, 2025 as “USS WISCONSIN SSBN 827 Day” at the Keel Laying ceremony.

The USS Wisconsin SSBN 827 Association connects Wisconsin citizens to their namesake submarine, promoting naval history, educational initiatives, and the Silent Service’s vital mission. Dr. Geurts’ selection underscores the Association’s commitment to building enduring ties between the Navy and Wisconsin communities.

"We are delighted that Dr. Geurts, a core member of our Association and passionate supporter of our mission, is serving as the Keel Authenticator,” said CAPT Jim Harvey, USN (Ret), Association President. "Her life's work in education and advocacy reflects the values of our Association."

The ceremony, occurring symbolically on the submarine’s hull number date of 8/27, marks a critical milestone as the submarine moves from design to physical construction. The Association will also host a Meet the Sponsor Social the evening of Aug. 26 at the Submarine Force Library & Museum in Groton, Connecticut, along with Watch Parties across Wisconsin and in Virginia.

As WISCONSIN (SSBN 827) takes shape, the Association remains dedicated to honoring submariners, celebrating Wisconsin’s naval heritage and shipbuilding legacy, and inspiring future generations.

About the USS Wisconsin SSBN 827 Association:

The USS Wisconsin SSBN 827 Association supports the future crews and families of WISCONSIN (SSBN 827), promotes Wisconsin’s naval legacy, raises awareness of the Silent Service’s critical role, fosters STEM education, and strengthens community connections. Learn more at http://www.usswisconsinsub.org/.

Contact:

CAPT Kathy DiMaggio, USN (Ret), Secretary

USS Wisconsin SSBN 827 Association
Email: dimaggio.kathy@usswisconsinsub.org

 Lisa Phillips, Vice President

USS Wisconsin SSBN 827 Association
Email: phillips.lisa@usswisconsinsub.org

Press release: 20250826 Keel Laying Press Release USS Wisconsin SSBN 827 Association