Mary gave us the dream and inspiration to be more than a sailing school. Following Mike's passing in 1992 Mary became highly involved in creating access to sailing. She knew the power and path that sailing had brought to her son's life, and wanted the opportunity to be there for others. From fundraising to making lunch Mary was a fixture on our site. Endlessly supportive but always able to inspire us to do more. When the time came to name the building, we initially approached Mary about naming it after her. Humble as always, urged us instead to name it after Mike. Her hope was that what he found in sailing could be shared for years to come. 

A hometown boy, with a checkered past. Mike grew up in Deephaven and sailing on Lake Minnetonka. Later in life, he rediscovered a passion for sailing offshore that changed the course of his life. As one of few Americans racing singlehanded offshore, he challenged the French dominance in the sport on a shoestring budget with hand built boats. Sailing over 100,000 miles in under 5 years he captured several awards but his prize - the coveted Vendee Globe - remained elusive. In exploring Mike's story, it becomes quickly apparent that sailing gave Mike a pathway, a goal, and a productive home for a wanderlust that couldn't be satiated. In Mike we see the refuge, the challenge, and the freedom encapsulated by the sport of sailing. 

As co-founder and team Captain of the UST Sailing Team, Dan Shinozaki has displayed excellent leadership abilities, a remarkable skill with motivating team members, and has always presented himself in a virtuous and respectful manner. At times, it seems as if he retains more pleasure in helping others achieve their goals, than in pursuing his own sailing advancement. Dan's smile, leadership, and energy were infectious. He provided a model for us all. Leaving us too soon, we share Dan's story as an example of those that make life worth living - for themselves and others. He is sorely missed and forever remembered.