A Pike Road student is preparing to take the next step toward a career of service after being nominated by U.S. Sen. Katie Britt to attend the U.S. Naval Academy.
April Kim is one of two students from the Montgomery-area region nominated by Britt this year. Kim, of Pike Road, will attend the Naval Academy, while Montgomery student Luke Catchings was nominated to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy.
Britt announced the nominations Aug. 3, recognizing the students as part of a group of Alabama students pursuing appointments to the nation’s service academies.
“It’s a privilege to recognize April for her many achievements and continued commitment to service,” Britt said in announcing Kim’s nomination. “Her appointment reflects years of hard work, and I was proud to nominate her to the U.S. Naval Academy. I know she will honor our state and our nation through her service in the Navy.”
For Kim, the nomination represents an opportunity to continue that commitment to service at one of the country’s premier military institutions.
The Naval Academy, located in Annapolis, Maryland, prepares students to become officers in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Students receive a four-year education while also completing military training and preparing for careers as commissioned officers.
Britt said the students selected from the Montgomery area demonstrate the qualities expected of future military leaders, including leadership, determination and a commitment to serving others.
“I applaud these exceptional students who have chosen a path that exhibits their courage, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to service,” Britt said. “Their nominations reflect not only years of hard work and leadership, but also a willingness to take on this incredible responsibility of serving our great nation.”
Kim is among 31 students from across Alabama nominated by Britt who are scheduled to attend U.S. service academies this fall.
The nomination process is competitive. Members of Congress may nominate qualified Alabama students for appointments to the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. The U.S. Coast Guard Academy has a separate admissions process and does not require a congressional nomination.
A congressional nomination, however, does not by itself guarantee admission. The individual service academies make the final admission decisions.
For Pike Road, Kim’s nomination adds another local name to the growing list of Alabama students pursuing military service through the nation’s service academies.
As she begins the next chapter of her education at the Naval Academy, Kim will join a long tradition of young Americans who have chosen to combine their college education with a commitment to serving their country.
Applications for the 2026-27 service academy nomination cycle through Britt’s office open Aug. 15, 2026. Learn more here.
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