Toledo, OH - Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) proudly welcomed and honored the 2026 Principal and Alternate Nominees from Ohio's 9th Congressional District to the United States Service Academies during a special reception recognizing their commitment to service, leadership, and country. Nominees were selected for nomination to the United States Military Academy at West Point, NY, the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis, MD, the United States Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, CO, the United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, NY, and the United States Coast Guard Academy at New London, CT. Principal and alternate nominees hail from communities across Ohio's 9th Congressional District, including Port Clinton, Monclova, Perrysburg, Maumee, Fremont, Defiance, Clay, Oregon, Milan, Castalia, Genoa, Holland, and Toledo.

"These outstanding young men and women have chosen a path defined by discipline, sacrifice, and service to something greater than themselves," said Congresswoman Kaptur (OH-09). "At a time when easier choices abound, they have stepped forward with courage and conviction to serve our nation. Their willingness to put country above self reflects the very best of Northwest Ohio and the enduring strength of our democracy. I am honored to be able to recognize these bright young minds who represent the future of our nation."

Each year, Congresswoman Kaptur appoints a Citizens Advisory Committee composed of distinguished veterans, public servants, and community leaders to interview candidates and assist in the nomination process. The 2025 Committee was chaired by Anneliese Steele, a 1987 graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, retired US Army Lieutenant Colonel, and Congresswoman Kaptur's first-ever appointment to a US Service Academy. Committee members also included Amy Herrick, Chaplain for Swanton American Legion Post and Detective with the Toledo Police Department; Susan Macias, retired Operational Campaign Analyst for US European Command; Ian Townsend, a 2007 Naval Academy graduate and US Navy Surface Warfare Officer; and Zach Migura, Executive Director of the Wood County Veterans Service Office and US Army Reserve member.

Principal Nominees for Ohio's 9th Congressional District:

• Noah Fitt, senior at Port Clinton High School - United States Air Force Academy
  In support of his nomination, confirmation sponsor James Spicer wrote: "While most teenagers are choosing easier paths and prioritizing immediate gratification, Noah seeks meaning and fulfillment physically, intellectually, and spiritually."
• Garrett Smith, senior at Anthony Wayne High School - United States Naval Academy (also an alternate nominee to the US Air Force Academy)
  Anthony Wayne Assistant Superintendent Kevin Pfefferle noted: "Garrett Smith exemplifies the honor, courage, and commitment that define the United States Naval Academy. He possesses the clarity of purpose and strength of character to serve our nation with distinction."
• Akash Joshi, senior at Maumee Valley Country Day School - United States Military Academy at West Point
  West Point has formally offered Akash an appointment. Dean of Students Jana Smith wrote: "Akash leads by example-on the soccer field, in the robotics lab, and in service to his community-demonstrating a team-first mindset and unwavering reliability."

In addition, Congresswoman Kaptur named a strong slate of Alternate Nominees, who remain highly competitive. Should a Principal Nominee be unable to matriculate, their Alternates will be considered for placement. Their Alternate Nomination also places each student in a national pool to compete for entry to the academies based on academic, athletic, and extracurricular achievements.

Alternate Nominees for Ohio's 9th District for 2025 include:

• Teagan Kennedy, senior at Maumee High School - United States Military Academy, United States Air Force Academy, and United States Naval Academy (recipient of a Letter of Assurance to the US Military Academy)
• Lincoln Ollom, senior at Fremont Ross High School - United States Military Academy
• Emily Schultz, senior at Clay High School - United States Military Academy, United States Air Force Academy, and United States Naval Academy
• Alexander Denkins, senior at Perrysburg High School - United States Military Academy
• Kathryn Cumston, senior at Edison High School - United States Air Force Academy
• James Huston, senior at Genoa High School - United States Military Academy
• Gabe Wensinger, senior at Fremont Ross High School -United States Military Academy
• Hunter Grahl, senior at Margaretta High School - United States Naval Academy, United States Military Academy, and United States Air Force Academy; Nominee to the United States Merchant Marine Academy
• Brady Borton, 2025 graduate of Defiance High School, Northwest State Community College -United States Merchant Marine Academy (recipient of a Letter of Assurance)
• Hayden Holesko, senior at Anthony Wayne High School - United States Air Force Academy
• Harper Slaght, senior at St. Ursula Academy - United States Naval Academy
• Haley Mitchell, senior at Humphreys High School - United States Military Academy

Final admission decisions are made by each Service Academy. Photos of nominees, and their families from the Academy Nomination Ceremony can be found by clicking here.

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