Susan Gibbs is the granddaughter of William Francis Gibbs, the naval architect and marine engineer who designed the SS United States. Susan has been actively involved in efforts to promote her grandfather's legacy since 2001 and currently serves as President of the SS United States Conservancy. She is also working on a book manuscript about the SS United States and her grandfather's role in the ship's creation. Susan serves as an independent consultant advising foundations on global population, health and environmental funding issues and strategies. She spent over a decade as a foundation grant maker, holding positions as a program officer for The Pew Charitable Trusts and senior program officer for the Summit Charitable Foundation. She holds a Masters Degree from Columbia University and a Bachelor's degree from Brown University. She and her husband Theodore Piccone live with their three children in Washington, D.C.

Joe Rota, joined the crew of the SS United states in April of 1955 and sailed steady for four years in the Stewards department. His assignments were 1st class elevator operator ,1st Class & Cabin Class Bell Boy , waiter, and two years as ships photographer. During his nine years at sea he also sailed on the America, Independence, and the Constitution. After leaving the sea in 1964, ( Going ON The Beach), Joe was appointed to the Bergen County Police Department until his retirement. He them moved to Up-state N.Y. where he was elected as town supervisor of Dresden. He served on the Washington County Board of Supervisors for twelve years, two as Chairman of the Board.  In 1991, Joe was elected as Chairman of the Adirondack Park local government Review Board, a twelve county board serving the Adirondacks. He retired after twenty five years of government service and is living in the Lake George, N.Y. area.