Staff Report / May 14, 2026
A Keuka College graduate has been named the new chief executive officer of the Port of Oswego Authority, becoming what college officials say is the youngest person currently leading a major U.S. port of call.
Tom Drumm, a 2015 graduate of Keuka College, was recently appointed CEO of the Port of Oswego Authority at age 33. The Port of Oswego serves as the first U.S. port of call on the Great Lakes for vessels entering through the St. Lawrence Seaway and handles more than one million tons of cargo annually.
Drumm, a fifth-generation Oswego resident, studied political science and history while attending Keuka College. During his time at the Yates County institution, he completed congressional internships through the school’s Field Period experiential learning program. Shortly after graduating, he successfully ran for a seat in the Oswego County Legislature at age 22.
His career in public service has also included work as a district organizer for Speak Out CNY and as regional director of intergovernmental affairs for the New York State Attorney General’s Office. In his new role, Drumm will oversee operations at the economically significant Lake Ontario shipping hub during a period of anticipated industrial growth in central New York.
Officials connected to the port have said the facility is expected to play an important role in regional supply chains tied to the planned Micron semiconductor manufacturing project in nearby Clay. Drumm said one of his goals will be raising the profile of the Port of Oswego and strengthening its role in future economic development efforts across upstate New York.
