WASHINGTON, D.C. – A Licking County student was recently extended an offer of appointment from a top military service academy. U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) today announced that the U.S. Air Force Academy has extended an Offer of Appointment to Watkins Memorial High School graduate Connor Severino. Brown nominated the Pataskala resident for the Air Force Academy.

“Ohio schools are educating the young people who will become the next generation of military leaders. I am proud that Connor has been offered the opportunity to attend one of our nation’s most prestigious institutions,” said Brown. “Mr. Severino’s family and the entire Pataskala community should be proud of this dynamic young man, who embodies the integrity and courage needed to represent and uphold the values of our nation.”

In 2013, Connor graduated from Watkins Memorial High School where he ran track and played football. He also served as the captain of the Chess Club, as an officer in the student body and National Honor Society, and as a student ambassador and peer tutor.

Each year, Brown nominates up to 10 students for each slot at our nation’s service academies requiring congressional recommendations, including: the Air Force Academy; the Naval Academy; the Military Academy at West Point; and the Merchant Marine Academy. This year, because two openings were available at the Air Force Academy, Brown nominated 20 students to that institution. A nomination does not guarantee acceptance into a service academy. The Academy’s Admissions Board ultimately decides who receives an appointment.

The nominations are based on the recommendation of a Service Academy Selection Advisory Committee assembled by Brown. This committee, comprised of former academy graduates, parents of academy attendees, and community leaders from throughout the state, conducted rigorous interviews before selecting the final candidates.

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