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A Selma resident was recently nominated U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) to attend the U.S. Naval Academy.

Marion Military Institute student Madeleine Annabel Evangeline Hope received a nomination from Shelby. She was one of 24 students across the state nominated by Shelby.

“I am honored to nominate Madeleine Hope to the U.S. Naval Academy,” Shelby said. “Her dedication to academic excellence and her many achievements outside the classroom give me confidence in her ability to succeed in this new endeavor.  I believe she will represent Alabama with distinction and look forward to her future accomplishments.”

Hope, who graduated from the School of Math and Science two years ago, is the daughter of Jessica and Duncan Hope.

Both Jessica and Duncan said they are overjoyed at their daughter’s nomination into the Navy.

“Madeleine has worked so hard for this and she’s put in so much effort,” Jessica Hope said.

Added Duncan Hope: “Jessica and I are both over the moon. Madeleine has put in a lot of hard work to get there. We’re proud parents.”

To get considered for a service academy nomination, applicants must be residents of Alabama and complete the required ACT or SAT exams. They must also provide letters of recommendation, an official school transcript, a qualifying medical examination, and a completed application form.

While Shelby nominated Hope, the Navy will make the final admission decision.