Amata Congratulates Student Upon Prestigious Acceptance to Service Academies

Washington, D.C. – Friday, Congresswoman Aumua AmataAmata is delighted to congratulate a student, Serenalia Iona, upon acceptance to one of the nation's prestigious service academies. Congresswoman Amata was notified that Serenalia Iona has been offered an appointment by the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado, pending final medical review.

"Congratulations to Serenalia Iona on this superb offer to join the fine tradition at the Air Force Academy," said Aumua Amata. "This offer is only possible through exceptional overall qualifications and real effort, including top-notch grades."

Additionally, two other students have been offered opportunities at preparatory school for the service academies: Dorvida Fuiava has been offered this start by the USAFA prep school; and Daniel T. McMoore has been offered that opportunity by the U.S. Naval Academy prep school.

"We're so proud of our students when they earn opportunities to strive for some of the best educations available in the U.S.," continued Amata. "Congratulations also to Dorvida Fuiava and Daniel McMoore on these open doors as you decide the next steps in your futures."

Serenalia Iona upon acceptance to USAFA with thanks to her mother Fili Iona (pictured)and also sending her thanks to her second mother Elielia Galemoa

In January, Amata announced a group of ten advanced students as congressional nominees, including five female and five male students.

• Baby-Serenalia May Iona is from Leone High School.
• Dorvida Fonoifafo Gretalei Fuiava is from Manumalo High School.
• Daniel T. McMoore is from Samoana High School.

The service academies are fully funded federal colleges whose mission is to train future officers and leaders to serve in their respective armed service. The admissions process is extremely competitive, as the academies seek candidates with high potential to become leaders as commissioned officers in the United States Armed Forces.

The prep schools allow for concentrated studies in one area, and are only possible for students that the service academy has evaluated as a good future prospect for the academy.

"I know this accomplishment makes your family proud," concluded Amata. "You bring credit to your schools, teachers and villages. American Samoa cheers on our own as they pursue all of life's possibilities."

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