Central South Dakota News

U.S. Senator Mike Rounds has announced his nominations for appointments to the United States service academies for the 2025-2026 school year. Among those nominated are Brody Weinmeister of Aberdeen, Rowdy Baldwin of Pierre, and Hollie Wise of Spearfish as principal nominees to the U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Military Academy at West Point, and U.S. Air Force Academy respectively.

Rounds expressed his pride in nominating these students: “It’s an honor to nominate our nation’s future military leaders to U.S. service academies,” he said. He highlighted the quality education provided by these institutions and acknowledged the students' commitment to serving their country.

Brody Weinmeister is a senior at Aberdeen Roncalli High School with a 3.9 GPA and is involved in various extracurricular activities including being captain of the varsity football team. He stated, “I am committed to upholding the values of integrity, discipline, and leadership that the United States Naval Academy instills in its midshipmen.”

Rowdy Baldwin holds a 4.0 GPA and participates in trap shooting among other activities while volunteering in his community. “I'm profoundly excited and grateful to receive a nomination to the United States Military Academy at West Point from Senator Mike Rounds,” Baldwin said.

Hollie Wise maintains a 4.0 GPA at Spearfish High School where she serves as Vice President of student council among other roles. She expressed her gratitude saying, “This incredible opportunity would not have been possible without the unwavering support of my family.”

In addition to principal nominees, Rounds may send up to 14 competitive nominees per academy for consideration by each academy's admission board which will determine final appointments.

Two students received Letters of Assurance from their respective academies: Lexi Brandt for the U.S. Naval Academy and Joseph Juenger for West Point.

The application process for these nominations involves meeting eligibility requirements across several areas including leadership and academics.

Individuals interested in applying for future nominations should apply by October 1, 2025.