Costa Announces Service Academy Nominations
FRESNO - Rep. Jim Costa announced the nomination of four high school seniors from Fresno, Madera, and Merced counties for admission to one of the United States service academies. Each student was assessed on their academic achievements, leadership, and community involvement.
"From excellence in the classroom to making a difference in their communities, these students are ready to take their leadership skills even further," said Costa. "Their choice to pursue a career in the United States military shows how dedicated they are to serving their communities and country. It is an honor to nominate them, and I wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors."
Rep. Costa is proud to announce the following nominations:
Andrew Koenig of Merced, California
Nominated to 2 academies: U.S. Air Force Academy & West Point Academy
Andrew attends El Capitan High School in Merced, has a 4.11 GPA and will graduate in June 2022. He is the son of Steven and Michelle Koenig and comes from a family that has served in the military. His activities include playing water polo and swimming on the varsity team and volunteering in the community and his church.
Thomas Cox of Fresno, California
Nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy
Thomas Cox graduated from Fresno's San Joaquin Memorial in 2021 and is attending Northwestern Preparatory School in Santa Barbara, California. Thomas is the son of Terrance and Kathleen Cox. At San Joaquin Memorial High School Thomas excelled in sports, playing water polo, basketball and swimming. He was also involved in the Chemistry Club and continues to study science at the preparatory school.
Thomas Garner III of Atwater, California
Nominated to 4 academies: U.S. Merchant Marine, the U.S. Naval Academy, West Point Academy, and the U.S. Air Force Academy
Thomas Garner III attends Atwater High School, has a 4.29 GPA, and will graduate in June 2022. Thomas is the son of Thomas Jr. and Heather Garner. At Atwater High School, Thomas is a Cadet Master Sergeant on the Civil Air Patrol in Merced County Composite Squadron 147. He also plays baseball, water polo, and swims. Thomas is also involved in the Future Farmers of America Ag Mechanics Team.
Skylar Hartley of Madera, California
Nominated to 4 Academies: U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Naval Academy, West Point Academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
Skylar Hartley attends Liberty High School in Madera, California, has a 4.2 GPA and will graduate in June 2022. Skylar is the daughter of Michael and Aretha Hartley. At Liberty High School, Skylar plays golf, volleyball, and soccer and is involved in school leadership, serving as Class President, ASB Secretary, and ASB Treasurer. She also serves as President of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and volunteers in the community.
Students wishing to attend a military service academy must obtain a Congressional appointment. Members of Congress nominate individuals each year. If accepted, students receive a full scholarship and must complete a military service obligation requirement upon graduation.
More information can be found on Rep. Costa's website for those interested.