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WASHINGTON, D.C. -- State Rep. David B. McKinley, R-W.Va., has nominated seven students from the First District of West Virginia to the U.S. Service Academies.
"Nominating exceptional young West Virginians for the academies has always been a highlight," McKinley said.
"These young men and women represent the best of West Virginia. Through their hard work and a commitment to serving their state and country, they have demonstrated true leadership."
Nominations to the academies are based on academic achievement, moral character, leadership potential and physical aptitude among other qualities. Admittance to the service academies is highly competitive, with a small number of cadets being accepted each year.
"I am confident these students will represent West Virginia well and look forward to following their successes in the future," he said.
The nomination is one step in the academy application process as the students must now meet each academy's individual admission requirements to receive an offer of appointment.
Local nominees for 2023-24, Class of 2027, include Weirton residents Jillian Rylie Cottrill and Luke Sweat. Both are students at Weirton Madonna High School.
Cottrill ranks at the top of her graduating class. She serves as president of her class, attended Girls State and is a National Merit Scholarship semifinalist. She was chosen as captain of the volleyball squad and received an OVAC All-Conference Academic Award. She has been nominated to U.S. Naval Academy and U.S. Air Force Academy
Sweat is a leader in student government and is a member of the National Honor Society. He is a second-degree black belt in karate and is a martial arts instructor. He has been nominated to U.S. Air Force Academy and U.S. Naval Academy.