Today, Congressman Paul Tonko met with and congratulated two local young women on their appointments to the United States Naval Academy and United States Military Academy. Joined by his Academy Nomination Panel and Colonie Supervisor Paula Mahan, Congressman Tonko presented letters of congratulations and took a photograph with Andrea Kim and Justice Constantine.

“As a Member of Congress, I am humbled to have the opportunity to work with my Academy Nomination Panel to screen and select candidates for nomination to our nation’s service academies,” said Congressman Tonko. “Andrea and Justice represent the best of America’s future and will make our area proud in their service to our country. They have demonstrated a desire to serve and have proven themselves as leaders in the classroom and community. I am honored to have the opportunity to join with them today as we celebrate their past achievements and look forward to their future successes.”

Andrea Kim, of Colonie, New York will be joining the United States Military Academy’s Class of 2016.  A member of South Colonie High School’s class of 2012, Andrea took it upon herself to start a “Pencils for Ethiopia” program, showing not only a commitment to volunteerism and service, but an awareness of global events and compassion for the less fortunate.  Andrea is also an active member of her high school class, including as a member of the varsity tennis team, serving on the year book club, theater, student government, Key Club, Chamber and PIT Orchestra, the National Honor Society, and more. 

Justice Constantine, of Niskayuna, New York will be joining the United States Naval Academy’s Class of 2016.  A graduate of the FBI’s National Academy Youth Leadership Program in 2010 and Outward Bound’s Northern Cascades Program, Justice has demonstrated a commitment to leadership and service.  As member of the National Honor Society and a standout varsity soccer player, Justice will graduate from Niskayuna High School near the top of her class. 

A photograph of this afternoon’s ceremony can be found herehttp://bit.ly/GLgGUR and http://bit.ly/GSSkYu.

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