Kean Announces Class of 2030 United States Service Academy Appointees

(June 18, 2026) LEBANON BOROUGH, NJ - Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) announced the names of 16 students who have accepted an offer of Appointment to a U.S. service academy and will be joining the class of 2030 this summer.

Each year, Members of Congress have the honor of nominating high school seniors for appointments to the U.S Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and U.S. Air Force Academy. All congressional nomination applicants must meet strict qualifications and undergo a rigorous selection process, including an interview with Congressman Kean's independent Academy Review Board.

Congressman Kean's office has opened its 2026 online application for students seeking a Service Academy nomination for the class of 2031. The application deadline is October 16, 2026. For more information, click HERE.

"Every year I have the privilege of nominating students to our nation's Service Academies," said Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. "Congratulations to the 16 outstanding students from across our district and state who will be joining the ranks of cadets and midshipmen at our nation's premier service academies. It is tremendous honor and achievement, and I wish them all the best as they begin this next chapter and prepare to serve our nation. "

The following students nominated by Kean have received and accepted an academy appointment:

Student Appointed to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point:

• Ethan Benenson of Califon
• Jaden Lee of Bridgewater
• Robert Niesmertelny of Branchburg
• Ryan Seymour of Summit
• Donovan Tung of Summit

Students Appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy:

• Michael Antonelli of Blairstown
• Rebecca Lubeck of Warren

Students Appointed to the U.S. Air Force Academy:

• Jack Cifuentes of Bridgewater
• Blake Dakin of Gladstone
• Trevor Fornuff of New Providence
• Aiden Foy of Sparta
• Charles Meyer III of Long Valley
• Samantha Petecca of Newton
• Ashley Yenawine of Westfield

Students Appointed to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy:

• Austin Gens of Trenton
• Vincent Giacchi of Lafayette

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