Celebrity Ascent has sister godmothers to join brother captains

The sisters join brother captains, Dimitrios and Tasos Kafetzis, who were announced earlier this year as masters of the newest Celebrity Cruises ship.

Celebrity Ascent Capts. Tasos Kafetzis and Dimitrios Kafetzis are brothers

Celebrity President Laura Hodges Bethge welcomed the godmothers, 'both inspirational women who have dedicated their lives to making a positive impact in the world. Capt. Sandy’s life story is one of resilience, leadership and strength, as a pioneer in the maritime industry and as an inspirational role model for young women. Her sister Michelle is a tireless advocate for children with autism and shows us what is possible when you follow your vision for a better world.'

Dec. 1 naming festivities

Yawn and Dunham will do the honors during Celebrity Ascent's Dec. 1 naming festivities. 

Capt. Sandy Yawn

Yawn is the embodiment of resilience, surviving a life-threatening accident, cancer and struggles with addiction before launching her career in the yacht industry. Her unwavering integrity and courage have earned her an outstanding reputation, and her remarkable leadership and bravery during a catastrophic fire and pirate threat off the coast of Yemen led to her receiving the Distinguished Crew Award from the International Superyacht Society in 2006.

Michelle Dunham

Dunham and her husband Mark co-founded the Jacksonville School for Autism to give their son Nicholas the best opportunity to learn. Established in 2005, JSA is a not-for-profit private school as a full-service K-12 educational center for students and young adults with autism spectrum disorders, with a focus on whole child development and individualized programs that encourage both family and community involvement. Interwoven into the program is the necessity for each student to develop independence while improving the quality of their lives.