New York, NY – Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, announced her nominations for candidates from Western New York to two of the nation’s service academies: the United States Naval Academy and the United States Air Force Academy.
“It is my distinct honor to nominate some of the best and brightest individuals from Western New York to the nation’s service academies,” said Senator Gillibrand. “These young leaders have demonstrated exemplary academic achievement and dedication to their communities and nation. I look forward to seeing all that they achieve, and I thank them for their commitment to our country.”
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 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 five candidates from Western New York to the service academies.
Senator Gillibrand’s nominees are listed below by their hometown and academies:
- Torianne Franke (Niagara Falls, Niagara Co.) – United States Naval Academy
- Brooke Heeter (Lake View, Erie Co.) – United States Naval Academy
- Meer Renschler Pandey (Buffalo, Erie Co.) – United States Naval Academy
- Dominik Engel (Buffalo, Erie Co.) – United States Air Force Academy
- Claire Smaldino (North Collins, Erie Co.) – United States Air Force Academy
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