Preparing the Next Generation of Leaders

Statement

A great deal of work remains to reduce spending, shrink the size of government, and get our economy moving again to restore the American dream for future generations. One of the most important steps we can take to help solve these problems is to provide opportunities for young Nebraskans to receive education and training which will equip them to make a difference in our communities.

U.S. Service Academies provide high-quality education with unmatched opportunities for young people looking to achieve their highest potential in education and service. These schools train young men and women to become leaders in the military while also preparing them to succeed in public or private careers.

Each year, I have the privilege of nominating a select group of individuals to attend one of the U.S. Service Academies. The academies include: the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York; the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland; the U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, Colorado; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York.

In order to be considered for nomination, students are required to complete two steps. First, students must have a postmarked a completed Academy Packet no later than September 30, 2011. The packet provides academic records, letters of recommendation, and other relevant information to help make the decision. For more information about the Academy Packet, please contact my Grand Island Office at (308) 384-3900.

The second step to receive a nomination is the required personal interview. In late October 2011, students who have completed packets within the required timeline will be invited for an interview with the Academic Advisory Committee which has been established to help evaluate applicants for nomination. Members of the Committee live in Nebraska's Third District and have diverse backgrounds which uniquely qualify them for this position.

Receiving a nomination from my office does not guarantee admission for the student. Ultimately, whichever academy the student wishes to attend will make the final decision based on personal merit and academic achievement. Additional criteria for admission include character traits, leadership ability, physical aptitude, and extracurricular involvement.

To provide interested students, parents, and guidance counselors with more information about U.S. Service Academies, I will host my annual All Academy Day on April 16, 2011. The event will take place in the Ockinga Auditorium on the University of Nebraska Kearney campus. All Academy Day provides interested parties with the information they need to determine whether an education at a U.S. Service Academy is the right choice for their future. The event is a unique opportunity to meet with representatives from the Academies to discuss the application process, academy life, and benefits of enrolling. If you would like to attend the All Academy Day, please call (308) 384-3900 or email Academy.Smith@mail.house.gov to R.S.V.P. by Monday, April 11, 2011.

In addition to All Academy Day, each U.S. Service Academy hosts a Summer Seminar for students following completion of their junior year in high school. For six-days, students pay a fee to participate in a fast-paced program at the various academies where they learn firsthand about the academy experience. Students are exposed to campus life, academic expectations, athletic training exercises, and professional development courses.

Throughout our nation's history, U.S. Service Academies have played an important role in preparing young people for service to our country. It is my honor to help students take advantage of the opportunities provided by these institutions because preparing tomorrow's generation of leaders is critical to our future success.

For more information about this issue, the latest developments from Congress, or to sign up for my e-mail newsletter, please visit my website at www.adriansmith.house.gov.

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