Franken nominates three local students to service academies

U.S. Senator Al Franken (D-Minn.) has nominated three local students for admission to a U.S. Service Academy. If chosen for an appointment, they will enter this summer and be part of the class of 2019.

Jackson Roche, the son of Edward and Kimberly Roche, is currently a senior at Southwest High School. Roche was nominated to the U.S. Air Force Academy He participates in varsity cross country, track and field, and is a member of the National Honor Society.  He has served his local community through volunteering for events like the YWCA Women’s Triathlon.

Ellen Gantenbein, the daughter of Sarah Reilly and Anthony Gantenbein, is currently a senior at South High School, and was nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy. She participates in both varsity swimming and choir.  She also is a member of the National Honor Society, Math Team, and Gender Equality Club.

Karl Schwarzkopf, son of Leighann and Erik Schwarzkopf, is currently a senior at Southwest High School. He was also nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy. He participates in both varsity swimming and jazz band.  He also serves his local community as a volunteer at the Southdale YMCA as a swim coach.

Each year, Sen. Franken nominates qualified young Minnesotans to the four U.S. Service Academies, and the individual service academies make the final admission decisions and began notifying nominees of their status in February.