Holland Reporter

Yesterday, Congressman Bill Huizenga of Michigan's Fourth District announced the nomination of 10 outstanding students to the U.S. Service Academies for the class of 2028. These students will be considered for appointment to prestigious institutions such as the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point.

In a statement, Congressman Huizenga expressed his pride in nominating these future leaders from Southwest Michigan. He acknowledged the dedication and passion required to pursue an appointment to a Service Academy, stating, "I applaud these incredibly talented individuals for following their passion. I have the utmost confidence that these students will represent Southwest Michigan with distinction and believe they deserve the highest recognition for their dedication and desire to serve our nation."

The nominations are based on an academy advisory board interview that evaluates criteria such as academic achievement, extracurricular achievement, and leadership abilities. Congressman Huizenga's website provides further information on the requirements for nomination and the application process.

It is important to note that a nomination does not guarantee admission to an academy. An academy must receive a nomination from an authorized source, such as a Member of Congress, before considering a student for an appointment. However, it is worth mentioning that the U.S. Coast Guard Academy does not require a congressional nomination.

The following students have been nominated by Congressman Huizenga for the Class of 2028:

For the United States Air Force Academy:

- Jade Alpert from St. Joseph High School

- Jackson Altwies from Portage Northern High School

- Landon McIver from St. Joseph High School

- Bryce Meyer from Otsego High School

For the United States Naval Academy:

- Jade Alpert from St. Joseph High School

- Daniel Borozan from Lakeview High School

- Katherine Cleypool from Hopkins High School

- Rolls Kerrigan from Battle Creek Central High School

- Joshua Lyon from Lakeview High School

- Bryce Meyer from Otsego High School

For the United States Military Academy at West Point:

- Jade Alpert from St. Joseph High School

- Daniel Borozan from Lakeview High School

- Rolls Kerrigan from Battle Creek Central High School

- Bryce Meyer from Otsego High School

- Madeline Toth from Portage Central High School

For the United States Merchant Marine Academy:

- Jade Alpert from St. Joseph High School

- Jennifer Dyke from Kenowa Hills High School

- Rolls Kerrigan from Battle Creek Central High School

- Joshua Lyon from Lakeview High School

It is a remarkable achievement for these students to receive a nomination from Congressman Huizenga, and it is a testament to their hard work and dedication. Their names will now be forwarded to the respective Service Academies for consideration.