Front & Center News from Fork Union Military Academy – April 26, 2024

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Stories in this issue:

  • Fork Union Military Academy Announces Nehemiah Allen as Board of Trustees Scholarship Recipient
  • Fork Union Military Academy Announces Honor Roll for Term 4
  • Fork Union Takes Top Honors at Inaugural Virginia Military School State Drill Competition
  • The Academy is Set for Alumni Weekend: Sagamore Sweepstakes
  • Happy Birthday to the April Babies
  • Fork Union Announces Cadet and Leader of the Term
  • Upcoming Admissions Events
  • Do you want to be a part of our Cadet Corps?

Fork Union Military Academy Announces Nehemiah Allen as Board of Trustees Scholarship Recipient

Fork Union Military Academy, the esteemed college preparatory boarding school for boys in central Virginia, is proud to announce Nehemiah Allen as the recipient of the 2024-2025 Board of Trustees Scholarship. Nehemiah, an incoming sophomore from Beaverdam, Virginia, impressed the selection committee with his academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and future goals.

Nehemiah is a rising star at Patrick Henry High School, excelling in both football and track and field. He aspires to play college football and pursue a career in culinary arts. Demonstrating his commitment to academics, Nehemiah has been on the honor roll for three consecutive years and is a member of the Beta Honor Society. His leadership potential is evident through his participation in the VTSS Student Council and his receipt of the DAR Citizenship Award in 2022.

The Board of Trustees Scholarship is a highly competitive merit-based award that provides full tuition, room and board, and uniforms to a deserving student entering eighth, ninth, or tenth grade. This year, Fork Union Military Academy received applications from exceptional students across the nation and internationally. After careful consideration, the Scholarship Committee narrowed the field to three finalists who participated in individual interviews in April.

“We were incredibly impressed with the caliber of applications we received this year,” shared Jackie Montero-Sharpe, Director of Enrollment Management, “Nehemiah stood out for his well-rounded achievements and his potential to excel within our unique academic and military environment. We are thrilled to welcome him to Fork Union Military Academy.”

Fork Union Military Academy is a private boarding and day school for boys in grades 7-12, offering a one-year postgraduate program as well. The school's structured, military-style atmosphere fosters responsibility, self-discipline, leadership, respect, and the pursuit of ambitious goals in young men.

For more information about Fork Union Military Academy or the Board of Trustees Scholarship, please visit our website at: forkunion.com/trustee-scholarship

Fork Union Military Academy Announces Honor Roll for Term 4

Fork Union Military Academy is proud to announce its Honor Roll for Term 4 of the 2023-2024 academic year. This distinguished group of cadets exemplifies dedication and commitment to academic achievement.

To qualify for the Honor Roll, cadets must demonstrate exceptional academic performance throughout the term, receiving grades of a B- or higher as their final grade for the term.

Here is the Honor Roll for Term 4 of the 2023-2024 academic year:

Grade 7:

  • Preston Inman
  • Ethan Wells

Grade 8:

  • Everett Amos
  • Asher Athar
  • Ryder Carignan
  • Ever Castillo Vecino
  • Ryan Hunt
  • Dominic Jackson
  • Rohan Jonnala
  • Austin Knowlton
  • Farouk Mandour
  • Brody Miles
  • Joseph Moreno
  • Ian Nizeyimana
  • Benedict Noller
  • Joshua Preston
  • Bradley Ray
  • Eeziyah Velez
  • Gregory Wells III
  • Elijah White
  • Kaydan Whiteside
  • Kebron Zulla

Grade 9:

  • Jayden Anderson
  • Adley Angelidi
  • Braden Arenella
  • Riley Belden
  • Nico Brown
  • Caden Canedo
  • David Eaton
  • Balin Frerichs
  • Adrian Gomez
  • Cameron Gray
  • Jeremy Herron
  • Alex Jackson
  • Tyran Johnson
  • Elliott Jones
  • Levi Jones
  • Gabriel Keener
  • Destin Lamadrid-Burkett
  • Christian Lopez
  • Jase McClung
  • Joshua McGuire
  • David Mehl
  • Chase Meriweather
  • Traycen Morgan
  • Tyson Morris
  • Kaiden Myer
  • Kenneth Radtke
  • Isaiah Schnuckel
  • Jaxon Sims
  • Kadin Stremlau
  • Connor Tarrant
  • Zhichen Xie

Grade 10:

  • Prince Ajao
  • Mason Alston
  • Caleb Barber
  • Robert Callahan
  • Justin Canty
  • Colton Childers
  • Nicholas Coleman
  • Zaden Cottam
  • Francisco Duarte
  • Haggai Dulo, Jr.
  • Tyler Hill
  • Nhan Hoang
  • Elijah Hunt
  • Val Kelestyn
  • Braedan Kelly
  • Isaiah Kittrell
  • Shaun Matthews
  • Isaiah McDaniel
  • Yannick McLean
  • Julius Mondesir
  • Matthias Moyer
  • Josue Mukendi
  • Christian Mukhisa
  • Charles Osborn
  • Chrysander Rahardjo
  • Ellis Roberts
  • Brandon Scheel, Jr.
  • Jackson Sereno
  • Brendan Smith
  • Godwin Vander Weide
  • Isaia Vilardo
  • Cooper Williams
  • Taylor Williams

Grade 11:

  • Alexander Abron
  • Daley Adams
  • Joseph Athey
  • Benjamin Block
  • Luke Boucher-Zazzar
  • Solomon Brown
  • Maddox Caddell
  • Seth Cella
  • Peyton Cottey
  • Ian Egbert
  • Miles Graybill
  • Lucius Havens
  • Bowofoluwa Immanuel
  • Josiah Johnson
  • Sheldon Kates-Offord
  • Philippe Lianavwa, Jr.
  • Laine Luke
  • Mason Ng
  • Cayden Oliver
  • John Parks
  • Niv Patel
  • Jyvion Perkins
  • Simon Price
  • Jaheim Scott
  • Mekyi Shepard
  • Allan Smith
  • Carmelo Spaulding
  • Vu Tran
  • Malachi Walsh
  • Levi Wikoff
  • Jaimin Woods

Grade 12:

  • Tyler Ackenbom
  • Christopher Acosta-Serrano
  • Jonie-Galton Ansah
  • Jaren Austin
  • Jafar Bah
  • Ayden Bland
  • Charles Bost
  • Jaxon Brooks-Powell
  • Lucian Brucker
  • Benjamin Burtram
  • Kadin Busser
  • Jacob Clodfelter
  • John Cottey III
  • Gordon Currey
  • Sebastian Espino Jimenez
  • Jonathan Farmer
  • Jayden Ginty
  • William Girod
  • Abdul Gueye
  • George Gurney
  • Laith Haddad
  • Ethan Hanley
  • Phillip Johnson
  • Juan Leyva Saavedra
  • Tyler Manglicmot
  • Nehemiah Mayuga
  • Aaron McDaniel
  • Tucker Miller
  • Everett Mitchell
  • Harry Momolu
  • Brady Moring
  • Daouda Niang
  • Kenny Nzamwita
  • Cameron Oppenheim
  • David Owen
  • Thinh Pham
  • Jaydn Pieron
  • Pranav Puchakayala
  • Pierce Roberts
  • Clayton Rosen
  • Dylan Rwagasana
  • Ethan Schroyer
  • Emerson Smith
  • Matthew Snyder
  • Isaiah Stewart
  • Kameron Taylor

Grade PG:

  • Jordan Anderson
  • Omarion Barber
  • Joseph Billingsley
  • Carmello Cinsere
  • DeSean Goode
  • Jaden Johnson
  • Charlie Tierney Sr.
  • Carter Wesson
  • Max Williams
  • Michael Wilson Jr.

Fork Union Takes Top Honors at Inaugural Virginia Military School State Drill Competition

Four of Virginia's esteemed military schools came together this past weekend, April 20th, for the first annual Virginia Military School State Drill Competition, held at Benedictine College Preparatory. Fork Union Military Academy emerged as a top competitor, showcasing exceptional drill skills and teamwork, against the host Benedictine, Randolph-Macon Academy, and Hargrave Military Academy.

Seventeen dedicated cadets from Fork Union’s Retan Rifles participated in the competition, representing the school in five individual and team events. The cadets poured their hearts into rigorous practice sessions over the past month, meticulously honing their drill routines and movements in preparation for the competition. Their hard work and dedication paid off in impressive results.

Fork Union achieved podium finishes in every category they participated in, including:

  • 1st Place: Duo Exhibition - John Cottey and Owen Girod
  • 1st Place: Overall Team Inspection
  • 2nd Place: Solo Exhibition - Everett Mitchell
  • 2nd Place: Unarmed Squad Regulation Drill
  • 3rd Place: Armed Squad Regulation Drill

The competition served as a thrilling display of discipline, precision, and camaraderie amongst cadets from Virginia's military schools.

“For Retan Rifles, this success is a significant milestone, fueling their motivation for even greater accomplishments in the future,” said ETN1(SS) John Warren, the faculty advisor for Retan Rifles. “The cadets are already setting their sights on next year's competition, eager to build upon their achievements and further solidify FUMA's position as a leader in drill excellence.”

Next year’s competition will be held at Randolph-Macon Academy.

Fork Union Military Academy Set for Alumni Weekend, May 3-5

Fork Union Military Academy is excited to host Alumni Weekend, taking place Friday, May 3 through Sunday, May 5, 2024. All alumni, cadet parents and community members are invited to reconnect with classmates, faculty, and friends, and celebrate the rich tradition of Fork Union.

The weekend starts with an Alumni BBQ on Friday evening. Throughout Saturday, enjoy a variety of on-campus and off-campus events, culminating in the Alumni Day Parade on Sunday.

We ask that you register to all events you plan to attend.

2024 Alumni Weekend

Friday, May 3, 2024

  • Alumni BBQ | Pruitt Lake | 6:00 PM | Free

Saturday, May 4, 2024

  • Alumni Golf Tournament | Lake Monticello Golf Club | 7:30 AM | $90
  • Cornhole Tournament | Fork Union's Social Center | 10:00 AM | Free
  • Retired Faculty Luncheon | Estes Dining Hall | 12:00 PM | Free
  • Alumni Lacrosse Game | Stadium Field | 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM | Free
  • Alumni Dinner | Westin Hotel | 6:30 PM | $50

Sunday, May 5, 2024

  • Veterans Memorial Ceremony | Veterans Memorial | 10:00 AM | Free
  • Alumni Class Photos | Hatcher Hall | 11:00 AM | Free
  • Lunch | Estes Dining Hall | 12:00 PM | Free
  • Alumni Day Parade | Stadium Field | 1:30 PM | Free

Click here to register for any event you would like to attend this weekend.

If you are staying the weekend and need a hotel, click here to find the hotels have blocks of rooms available at a special rate for our Alumni Weekend.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Win a Baltimore Getaway!

As part of Alumni Weekend and thanks to the generosity of Kevin Plank (Class of 1991), you have a chance to win an unforgettable Baltimore experience with the Sagamore Sweepstakes! Purchase a $350 raffle ticket to be entered to win this amazing prize package:

Luxurious Staycation: Enjoy a one-night stay in a Harbor View King room at the Sagamore Pendry Baltimore (valued at $369). Immerse yourself in luxury and take in stunning harbor views. (Please note that incidentals are not included).

Culinary Delights: Treat your taste buds to a delicious meal with a $200 gift card to Nick's Fish House, a Baltimore staple known for its fresh seafood.

Spirits Adventure: Embark on a tour for two at Sagamore Spirit Distillery, where you can learn about the distillery's process and sample their award-winning spirits.

How to Win:

Purchase a raffle ticket for $350 by Sunday, May 5, 2024, to be automatically entered into the raffle drawing.

The Winner Will Be Announced:

The lucky winner of the Sagamore Sweepstakes will be announced on Monday, May 6, 2024.

Happy Birthday to the April Babies

Fork Union Military Academy celebrated all cadets, staff and faculty who have birthdays in April with prayer, cupcakes and fellowship at the Social Center during the morning break on Thursday, April 25.

A huge thank you to SAGE Dining who continues to surprise us with amazing desserts each month.

Happy Birthday to:

Staff & Faculty:

  • Alexander Welch
  • Joshua Adams
  • Regina Delman
  • Steve McCoy
  • Michael DeMatteo
  • Liz Zito
  • Ben Jamison
  • Sara Gurney
  • Gary Leydig

Cadets

  • Isaiah Stewart
  • Lucian Brucker
  • Asher Athar
  • Jackson Sereno
  • Brandon Scheel
  • Chase Meriweather
  • Benedict Noller
  • Luc Havens
  • Benjamin Burtram
  • Christopher Acosta-Serrano
  • Bradley Ray
  • Connor Tarrant
  • Godwin Vander Weide
  • Tristan Via
  • Joseph Athey

Fork Union Announces Cadet and Cadet Leader of the Term for Term 4

In a proud tradition of recognizing excellence and leadership among its cadet corps, Fork Union Military Academy recently unveiled the standout cadets for the term. GySgt Charlie Coulter, the Commandant of Cadets, proudly announced the Cadet Leader and Cadet of the Term, recognizing their dedication, exemplary conduct, and outstanding leadership qualities.

For Term 4, the honorees are c/1SG Nicholas Coleman, who has been named the Cadet Leader of the Term, and c/PVT Joshua Preston, also from Charlie Company, who has been awarded the Cadet of the Term.

Cadet Coleman, the son of Jennifer and Brian Coleman, is a sophomore from Woodbridge, Virginia and is in his third year at the Academy.

Cadet Preston, a first-year cadet, is the son of Tony and Alethea Preston of Jacksonville, Florida.

The selection process for these prestigious titles is rigorous and comprehensive. Each company conducts an internal review and nominates one cadet for each of the two categories. Category 1 encompasses cadets from Privates to Corporals, while Category 2 is designated for Cadet Sergeants to Captains.

The board, held on Wednesday, April 10, was composed of esteemed members, including Command Sergeant Major Glenn Sidwell and four senior cadets from the Battalion Staff. Cadets faced a thorough examination, donning their Class A uniforms adorned with all awards and decorations, as they were grilled on various aspects including the Academy’s history, core values, Cadet Regulations (Blue Book), leadership traits and the Honor Code.

Throughout the interview, candidates were evaluated across seven distinct areas, with a maximum of points allocated to each:

  • Personal Appearance, Bearing, and Self-Confidence (max 20 points)
  • Oral Expression and Conversation Skills (max 15 points)
  • Knowledge of Current Events (world affairs) (max 15 points)
  • Achievements-Academy Standing, Awards, and Demerits (max 20 points)
  • Awareness of Military Subjects (max 15 points)
  • Room and Bed/Wall-locker Displays (max 10 points)

For their exceptional performance across these criteria, both Cadet Coleman and Cadet Preston will be honored with a $25.00 gift card and the opportunity to participate in the Cadet/Leader of the Year board. This recognition not only celebrates their individual achievements but also serves as a testament to their commitment to excellence and leadership within the Fork Union Military Academy community.

“Congratulations to Cadet Coleman and Cadet Preston on their well-deserved accolades, and may they continue to inspire their peers with their dedication and exemplary conduct,” said GySgt Coulter.

Upcoming Admissions Events

The best way to learn about Fork Union Military Academy is to schedule an appointment with our Admissions Office and come for a family visit and receive your own individual tour of the campus.

We also schedule a number of Admissions Events on campus and in various cities and regions throughout the year.

Friday, May 17 | Admissions Event in Phoenix, AZ

  • Interested in learning more about Fork Union Military Academy? An admissions team representative will be in Phoenix, Arizona on Friday, May 17th, from 2 PM to 6 PM, for an Admissions Event held at Black Rifle Coffee located at: 4126 E Indian School Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85018. Registration for this event is required. Click here to register by going to the appointment calendar for this event and selecting your preferred time slot on May 17th.

Saturday, May 18 | First Annual HBCU High School Football Camp

  • Interested in learning more about Fork Union Military Academy? An Admissions Team representative will be attending the Arizona's First Annual Historically Black College and University (HBCU) High School Football Camp on Saturday, May 18th, from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. This event will be held at the Higley High School Football Field located at: 4068 E Pecos Rd., Gilbert, AZ 85295. To learn more about this event: OrthoArizona to Sponsor State’s First HBCU Football Camp. Come see us!

Saturday, May 18 | Admissions Event in Mesa, Arizona

  • Interested in learning more about Fork Union Military Academy? An admissions team representative will be in Mesa, Arizona on Saturday, May 18th, from 5 PM to 8 PM, for an Admissions Event held at Black Rifle Coffee located at: 5105 S Power Rd., Mesa, AZ 85212. Registration for this event is required. Click here to register by going to the appointment calendar for this event and selecting your preferred time slot on May 18th.

Monday, May 27, 2024 | Open House on Campus

  • We would like to invite you to our Memorial Day Admissions Open House on the campus of Fork Union Military Academy on Monday, May 27th, from 9:00AM to 12:00PM. You will be able to go on a cadet-led tour of our campus, participate in an information session to learn more about the Academy, speak directly with members of our admissions team to get answers to all of your questions, and enjoy lunch in our dining facility. Registration to this event is required.

Do you want to be a part of our Cadet Corps?

Are you a young man in the 7th to 12th grade? Do you want to be a man known for integrity, respect for yourself and others, faith, character, and discipline?

We encourage you to fill out an application for enrollment and join our cadets here at Fork Union Military Academy.

Thank you!