Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today announced her nominations for candidates from Western New York to two of the nation’s leading service institutions: the United States Naval and Air Force Academies.
“I am honored to nominate such dedicated and talented students from Western New York to our nation’s service academies. They have demonstrated exemplary leadership abilities and an outstanding academic record, as well as a passion to serve our nation,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Our service academies cultivate top-tier officers who bravely protect our nation, and I look forward to these nominees’ successes as they further their education and continue their commitment to our country in the armed forces.”
A selection committee formed by Senator Gillibrand chose the nominees from a large group of qualified applicants. Decisions were based on criteria including academic record, leadership potential, and overall achievement. Final acceptance is determined solely by the service academies.
The United States service academies offer a first-class education as well as the chance for young people to serve our country upon graduation as commissioned officers in the United States Armed Services. This year, Senator Gillibrand nominated four candidates from Western New York to the service academies.
Senator Gillibrand’s nominees are listed below by their hometown and academies:
- Isabella Bogucki (Buffalo, Erie County) – U.S. Naval Academy
- Andrew Hartnett (West Seneca, Erie County) – U.S. Naval Academy
- Madeline Szwed (Cheektowaga, Erie County) – U.S. Air Force Academy
- Kirsta Wheelock (Fredonia, Chautauqua County) – U.S. Naval Academy