Loyola College Prep senior Abbie Anderson was appointed to the U.S. Air Force Academy and the U.S. Naval Academy upon her nomination from the United States Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04). Abbie plans to attend the Air Force Academy after graduating from Loyola next month.
“I am so grateful for this opportunity to attend the Air Force Service Academy, as this has been my goal for many years,” Anderson said. “This could not have been possible without Congressman Mike Johnson’s nomination, my LCP community, and my family’s unwavering support.”
Admission to the Service Academies is strenuous. The application process examines academic and extracurricular records, leadership activities, physical fitness test results, and a required nomination. Abbie received a Presidential nomination as well as nominations from Congressman Mike Johnson, Senator Bill Cassidy and Senator John Kennedy.
“It is a true testament to Abbie’s character, intellect and abilities that she received appointments to both the Naval and Air Force Academies,” Rep. Johnson said. “She is an exceptional individual, and I was honored to nominate her to become a part of America’s next generation of military leaders. We are grateful for her love of country and willingness to serve.”
Abbie was named Loyola’s Student of the Year, maintains a GPA of 4.4, and is a leader on the volleyball team receiving several athletic awards for her achievements in the sport. Outside of school Abbie has served on the Civil Air Patrol for the last four years with roles such as Cadet Captain, Training Flight Commander, and Public Affairs Officer. Notably she was named 2021 Squadron Cadet of the Year and received the 2021 FAA Fixed Wing Powered Flight Solo.
“Abbie is an exceptional student, and we are unbelievably proud of her accomplishments at Loyola,” said Anna Beth Clark, Director of Admissions. “To receive appointments at both Academies is something that not many high school students can achieve. Not only is she intelligent, but she is incredibly mature for her age and a natural leader. She is going to achieve great things, and her Loyola family will support her every step of the way.”
Abbie also received an Air Force ROTC Type 1 scholarship which includes full tuition and a monthly stipend for four years to study any major at any college/university that offers Air Force ROTC.
“I want to thank Loyola for getting me to where I am today. The Academies examine a potential candidate’s well-roundedness through academics, extracurriculars, and leadership and Loyola created an environment where I could grow in each aspect in one place. The support system Loyola has provided for me has helped me to determine the direction of my future.”
Abbie plans to start at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO this summer for basic training and will begin classes with the rest of her classmates in the fall.