WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) today announced that Lexi Brandt, a senior at Hill City High School, has received a competitive nomination to the United States Naval Academy with a Letter of Assurance. A Letter of Assurance is a conditional offer of admission from the Academy, dependent on the applicant receiving a nomination from a member of their Congressional delegation, as well as passing their medical and fitness screenings. Letters of Assurance are relatively rare and reflect a high level of confidence in the applicant’s potential to succeed and contribute to the academy.
Lexi is the daughter of Coni and Scott Brandt of Hill City, South Dakota. Lexi is a senior at Hill City High School, where she serves as President of the Student Council and Vice President of State Student Council. Lexi volunteers with the Humane Society and Children’s Miracle Network. Lexi serves as President of her National Honor Society chapter and currently holds a 4.0 GPA.
“Congratulations to Lexi on receiving a competitive nomination to the U.S. Naval Academy,” said Rounds. “Lexi is committed to serving her country in the United States Navy. I am proud to nominate her to the Naval Academy. She’s worked hard to meet the strict requirements to not only attend but excel at one of our nation’s service academies. We wish Lexi all the best as she begins her journey in Annapolis next fall.”
“I am deeply honored to receive Senator Mike Rounds’ nomination to the United States Naval Academy,” said Brandt. “Serving my country has been a dream of mine since middle school, and this milestone would not have been possible without the unwavering support of my family, friends, and teachers. I am eager to begin this journey, knowing it will be both challenging and incredibly rewarding. The Naval Academy will shape me into a leader of character and prepare me to serve with honor and dedication as an officer in the United States Navy.”
Students interested in attending a service academy go through a rigorous application process. Because the academies are highly competitive, students must meet eligibility requirements in leadership, physical fitness, character and academics. The young people joining the military directly from the academies are among the highest caliber our country has to offer, which is a result of the challenging training and education they received at service academies. Students applying for service academies are required to receive a Congressional nomination as part of the application process. Those appointed receive a scholarship and military appointment and are required to serve in the military for at least five years upon graduation.
Individuals interested in applying for a service academy nomination for academic year 2026-2027 (Class of 2030) should apply by October 1, 2025. Questions about the academy nomination application process can be directed to Rounds’ Rapid City office by calling (605) 343-5035 or by emailing Academy_Nominations@rounds.senate.gov.
An informational packet and the application packet can be found on Senator Rounds’ website at https://www.rounds.senate.gov/constituents/academy-nominations.
