Bourbonnais resident Keeley Schwada accepted into U.S. Naval Academy

Congresswoman Robin Kelly announced today that Bourbonnais resident Keeley Schwada has been offered an appointment to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.

"Keeley possesses the patience and tenacity to become an outstanding Naval officer," Congresswoman Kelly said. "More women in leadership roles across our military and our government can only make American stronger. I have great faith that our younger generation has the know-how and resolve to confront the national security challenges of the 21^st Century."

The daughter of Paul and Kendra Schwada, she is a graduate of Bradley-Bourbonnais High School, where she was captain of the tennis team, a member of the National Honor Society, sang in the chorus, and played the lead role of Annie in the school production of "Annie."

After Congresswoman Kelly first nominated Schwada last year, she was invited to attend the Naval Academy Preparatory School. Rep. Kelly re-nominated Schwada this year as a prep school graduate, and she was accepted to the Academy.

Schwada is the third Kankakee County resident to be offered an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy. In February, Chase LaRoche of Kankakee High School, and Vaughn Studer of Bishop McNamara Catholic High School were accepted into the academy.

The academies have an extremely competitive application process and are ranked among the best colleges in America. Upon graduation, the cadets become U.S. military officers and typically serve at least five years in the armed services.

Each year, Congresswoman Kelly nominates eligible students from the 2^nd Congressional District to attend our nation's four service academies: the U.S. Air Force Academy, Merchant Marine Academy, Military Academy at West Point and the Naval Academy. This year, Rep. Kelly nominated 11 students. More information about the nomination process and eligibility requirements can be found at /services/military-academy-nominations.

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