Press Release

Gillibrand Announces 2018 Service Academy Nominations From Rochester – Fingerlakes Region

Jan 23, 2018

Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today announced her nominations for candidates from the Rochester – Finger Lakes region to three of the nation’s leading service institutions: the United States Military, Naval, and Merchant Marine Academies.

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.

“These nominees have taken an extraordinary step. They are committed to serving their country and are on their way toward becoming leaders,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Our service academies cultivate top-tier officers who bravely serve our nation, and it is my honor to nominate such dedicated and talented students to the academies.”

The United States service academies offer a first-class education as well as a chance for young people to serve our country upon graduation as commissioned officers in the United States Armed Services. This year, Senator Gillibrand nominated three candidates from the Rochester – Finger Lakes Region to the service academies.

Senator Gillibrand’s nominees are listed by their hometown and academies:

  • Garrett Nolte (Penfield, Monroe Co.) – U.S. Military Academy
  • Oliver Smith (Rochester, Monroe Co.) – U.S. Naval Academy
  • Brayden O’Connell (Beaver Dam, Schuyler Co.) – U.S. Merchant Marine Academy