Congressman Stephen F. Lynch recently announced that he has nominated Zoeé Kanellias for appointment to the United States Naval Academy and the United States Air Force Academy. Zoeé, the daughter of Paraskevi and Athanasios Kanellias, is a senior at Needham High School.

As part of his annual Congressional responsibilities, Congressman Lynch nominates exemplary candidates to the service academies. “Since September 11, 2001, the quality of applicants has steadily improved every year, and this year was no exception. These candidates are the best of the best, and I am proud of their desire to serve our country.”

“Zoeé was highly recommended by her teachers and coaches at Needham High School. She is a remarkable young woman, and we are fortunate that young people like Zoeé are willing to serve our nation,” said Congressman Lynch.

Congressman Lynch and his Congressional Liaison for Military Affairs, Bob Fowkes, examined each candidate’s record of academic, athletic, and service achievements, as well as letters of recommendation. After an extensive review process and a personal interview, Zoeé Kanellias was selected as someone whose scholastic record and community contributions elevated her to the top of a list of well-qualified candidates.

Congressman Lynch said, “There were many impressive candidates this year from the Ninth Congressional District for the U.S. Naval Academy and the U.S. Air Force Academy. Zoeé stood out as a young woman of keen intelligence and strong character. She is a wonderful reflection of her parents, Paraskevi and Athanasios. The Kanellias family, the town of Needham, and the entire state should be proud of Zoeé in this achievement.”

Students interested in attending one of the United States Service Academies should contact Mr. Robert Fowkes in Congressman Lynch’s Boston office at 617-428-2000.

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