Four Bolles seniors from the Class of 2026 earned Service Academy nominations this year. Elisabeth “Ellie” Stewart ’26, Michael Gumino ’26, David “Drew” Nussbaum ’26 and Ryan Rodenbarger ’26 were each recognized for earning nominations to prestigious U.S. service academies.

Stewart earned two nominations to the United States Military Academy at West Point — one from U.S. Representative Aaron Bean (FL‑4) and another from U.S. Senator Ashley Moody (Florida), who issues nominations statewide. Stewart also carries a meaningful connection to Bolles history: her great-aunts were among the earliest female students to attend the School, adding to a multigenerational pattern of strong Bolles women who have embraced leadership and new opportunities.

United States Representative John H. Rutherford (FL‑5) recognized the additional seniors—Gumino, Nussbaum and Rodenbarger—at the Class of 2030 Service Academy Nomination Ceremony on February 17. Gumino received a nomination to the United States Military Academy, while both Nussbaum and Rodenbarger earned nominations to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis.

The Service Academy Nomination program allows Members of Congress (Representatives and Senators), the Vice President and certain military‑affiliated authorities to nominate qualified students for appointment to four of the five U.S. service academies. These nominations are a required part of the admissions process for all academies except the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.

Congressional nominations are selective and chosen from thousands of applicants based on personal merit. Criteria include character, leadership, academic excellence, physical aptitude and extracurricular involvement.

Founded in 1933 as a military school for boys, Bolles carried a cadet tradition through 1962 before evolving into the coeducational college‑preparatory community it is today. That legacy of service and leadership remains a proud part of the School’s identity, and these nominations continue that tradition. Congratulations to Ellie, Michael, Drew and Ryan on this outstanding achievement! #BulldogProud