On August 4th, Robert Herb, Director of Vessel Agency at John S. Connor, Inc. and President of the Seamen’s Church Institute of Philadelphia & South Jersey, welcomed mariners as the host to the North American Maritime Ministry Association (NAMMA) Conference in Philadelphia. 

NAMMA’s 2026 Conference, themed “Windows to the World,” brought together more than 100 delegates from seafarers’ welfare organizations across North America and beyond, alongside partners from the wider maritime community. Seafarers’ welfare organizations operate at the intersection of global trade, human movement, and local port communities.

Local sponsor and partner for the conference, the Seamen’s Church Institute (SCI) of Philadelphia & South Jersey, has been a trusted presence in Greater Philadelphia since 1843. With deep historic roots serving seafarers in the region, SCI has met the changing needs of maritime workers—transitioning from a floating chapel on the Delaware River to a full-service facility in Center City, and now operating out of the Philadelphia Navy Yard.

Robert Herb’s expertise and service to the industry have been recognized by the Ports of Philadelphia Maritime Society, and recently by the Propeller Club of Baltimore, when they awarded Rob as their Port Person of the Year 2026. In honor of Rob’s 45 years of dedication to the maritime business, the Seamen’s Church Institute of Philadelphia presented Rob with the Spirit of the Port Award, honoring individuals who embody the spirit and humanity of the regional port community.

Everyone at Connor extends our heartfelt congratulations and appreciation for Rob’s continued dedication to our industry and community.