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The United States Air Force Academy instills cadets with pride and integrity while preparing them to serve their country and succeed.
Vandenberg Hall, the second-largest university dorm in the country, houses living quarters, store, post office, barbershops, and launderette.
The latest issue of the U.S. Air Force Academy's newsletter highlights cadet, faculty, academic, research, and sporting achievements.
The latest issue of the U.S. Air Force Academy's newsletter highlights cadet, faculty, academic, research, and sporting achievements.
The latest issue of the U.S. Air Force Academy's newsletter highlights cadet, faculty, academic, research, and sporting achievements.
Winter issue of the U.S. Air Force Academy's newsletter highlights cadet, faculty, academic, research, and sporting achievements.
Effectively communicate and support this new chapter of your cadet’s life! Here are the frequently asked questions (FAQ) from parents.
Listing of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) regarding the United States Air Force Academy that will help cadets prepare for life at USAFA.
The Air Force Academy graduation is an exciting time for cadets, family and friends. Find upcoming dates, events schedule, photos and more.
1. Welcome Back, MTIs Military Training Instructors return to the Air Force Academy after a 10-year absence. The Cadet Wing will add five NCOs who served as basic training instructors at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, to the Cadet Wing by the end of February. Read more at https://www.usafa.edu/news/academy-brings-back-mtis-as-cw-refocuses-on-training-fundamentals 2. Definition of Character Cadet Candidates select their 2020 exemplar, Capt. Victoria A. “Tori” Pinckney, Jan. 24, and honored her for her service and sacrifice. https://www.usafa.edu/news/usafa-prep-school-inducts-shell-77-pilot-capt-tori-pinckney-as-2020-exemplar 3. Cadets Go to Court Cadets pursuing law degrees competed in a national-level collegiate mock trial event. https://www.usafa.edu/news/academy-cadets-make-playoffs-at-national-moot-court-competition/ 4. Moving Forward A cadet helps children...
The Weekly Lead Celebrating All of Us The chief of staff of the Air Force announced changes to the third verse of the Air Force song to highlight the sacrifice and service of all Airmen. Read about here: https://www.usafa.edu/news/updating-our-alma-mater-to-celebrate-all-of-us Link to the Past Cadet 1st Class Manzi Masozera dedicated his senior capstone to examining racism and the human condition. Here’s what the English major had to say about how an example of Civil War-era prejudice encourages him to be a leader of character. Read more at: https://www.usafa.edu/news/shining-a-light-on-the-forgotten-story-of-fortune-wright No ExcusesThe 10th Air Base Wing staged intimate-partner violence scenarios Feb. 25 to...
Continue Reading The Weekly Lead: Updating the AF Alma Mater, Learning from the Past, NCLS & more
Just as Air Force Academy cadets support each other, parents of cadets support each other. Join one of the 100+ parent clubs across the country.
The American Studies minor at the U.S. Air Force Academy prepares students for leadership as officers for our military and as citizens for our nation.
Beyond helping to understand culture and broadening your worldview, studying a foreign language can influence your military career.
Beyond helping to understand culture and broadening your worldview, studying a foreign language can influence your military career.
Beyond helping to understand culture and broadening your worldview, studying a foreign language can influence your military career.
Beyond helping to understand culture and broadening your worldview, studying a foreign language can influence your military career.
Beyond helping to understand culture and broadening your worldview, studying a foreign language can influence your military career.
Beyond helping to understand culture and broadening your worldview, studying a foreign language can influence your military career.
The Weekly Lead 1. Scholarship Round Up (Graphic by Tech. Sgt. Ben Stratton) Five cadets at the Air Force Academy are getting ready to study abroad next year, courtesy of Marshall and Scharzman scholarships. It’s not just every cadet who earns these prestigious opportunities. Read about it here: https://www.usafa.edu/news/cadet-scholars-to-study-in-u-k-china-next-year 2. Healthy Options The Academy’s commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle means cadets have more dining options next year. https://www.usafa.edu/news/academy-to-launch-dining-card-system-expand-options-for-cadets 3. Another Big Cyber Win U.S. Air Force Academy Cadet 1st Class Sears Schulz (middle) took first place in the President’s Cup, a Department of Homeland Security cyber competition Dec. 12,...
Continue Reading The Weekly Lead: Scholarship winners, a big cyber win & more
Beyond helping to understand culture and broadening your worldview, studying a foreign language can influence your military career.
Beyond helping to understand culture and broadening your worldview, studying a foreign language can influence your military career.
Staff Reports, May 14, 2019 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- The Air Force Academy released its security guidelines for the Class of 2019 graduation ceremony, May 30 at Falcon Stadium. Earlier this month, 19,000 tickets to the ceremony were given to graduating cadets and their families and friends. Since then, all available tickets to the ceremony have been distributed to the general public. Service members and civilian employees at the Academy are encouraged to check at their place of work for extra tickets. Service members, their families, civilian employees and cadets at the Academy are encouraged to return any extra...
Continue Reading AF Academy releases security guidelines for graduation ceremony
Seventeen basic cadets join Hants and Caroline White (right) and their daughter Elizabeth (center front) at their home for Doolie Day Out, July 9, 2022. (courtesy photo by Caroline White) U.S. Air Force Academy Strategic Communications U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. – Caroline and Hants White planned to host six basic cadets for Doolie Day Out this year. For various reasons, they ended up with 17 basic cadets in their home for a day filled with food, fellowship and laughter. That is typical of the White’s 15 years of experience as a sponsor family. Shortly after the couple and their...
Continue Reading Sponsor family opens home and hearts to cadets
Major Jessica Gronert, USAFA Class of 2009, in Jerash, Jordan. Photo courtesy Maj Jessica Gronert. By Rachelle Stoll, Strategic Communications The sudden abruptness of the Afghanistan withdrawal left so many American and coalition veterans with what could only be described as an all-encompassing gamut of human emotion. For who bore the sword that delivered the blow? The little boy and little girl, who grew up having seen two towers in a once-boundless American sky, crumble mercilessly to the ground. The young man and woman with pimples on their cheeks and fire in their eyes, saying “send me!” Going--maybe not with...
Continue Reading How a group of Academy grads are providing humanitarian relief after Afghanistan
By Ray Bowden/Aug. 30, 2017 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, COLO -- When Hurricane Harvey struck Texas, the North Texas Parent Club “got mobilized” and organized a dinner Sept. 1 at a Colorado Springs restaurant for cadets from the Gulf Coast. Hurricane Harvey, the largest rainstorm in the history of the continental U.S. according to some meteorologists, began pounding the region Aug. 26. It’s since been downgraded to a tropical storm, but heavy rainfall again drubbed Texas and parts of Louisiana Aug. 30. In all, 113 cadets at the Air Force Academy and six cadet candidates at the Prep School hail from...
Continue Reading Parent groups reach out to cadets from hurricane-struck gulf coast
Tech. Sgt. Julius Delos Reyes/May 10, 2017 A cadet and professor at the U.S. Air Force Academy concocted a thick gel that can stop a bullet fired from a .44 Magnum. Cadet 1st Class Hayley Weir and military and strategic studies professor Ryan Burke created the gel that enhances body armor when inserted into the right material. They designed the materiel for the body armor, too. Their model uses 75-percent less fabric than typical military-style body armor, weighs far less and is half as thick. So far, their invention has grabbed the attention of the Department of Homeland Security, various...
Continue Reading Cadet, professor improve body armor technology
Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs , April 11, 2019 ARLINGTON, Va (AFNS) -- The Air Force now has an enterprise-wide mobile app designed to provide Airmen with streamlined access to information they need for their lives and careers. Air Force Connect was one of six ideas to compete as a finalist in the 2018 Spark Tank competition, which provided the authority and funding to launch the app Air Force-wide. The app is designed to offer Air Force organizations at all levels a way to deliver timely and relevant information to Airmen, their families and members of the local community....
Continue Reading New mobile app enables, engages, empowers Airmen
10th Mission Support Group / Published March 16, 2017. U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- Spring starts March 20 and Black bears living on or near the Air Force Academy are leaving their hibernation and looking for food. If the bears found food in a trash container last year near your home or office, chances are they’ll come back. Access to food and trash makes bears comfortable around people, so close and properly latch the doors on your bear-resistant dumpster or tote-receptacles. Trash containing medicine, chemicals and plastic can kill and injure a bear. By regulation, residents in base...
Senior Master Sgt. Patrick Hunt, an enlisted faculty member at the U.S. Air Force Academy. Story by Ray Bowden, all photos by Trevor Cokley U.S. Air Force Academy Strategic Communications U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. – Look no further than the U.S. Air Force Academy if you need proof of the shrinking education gap between today’s commissioned officers and enlisted personnel. Senior Master Sgt. Patrick Hunt, one of 10 senior noncommissioned officers in the Academy’s enlisted faculty program, possesses credentials to impress even the most polished academic. The Buffalo, New York, native holds a master’s degree in business administration-human resource...
Continue Reading Enlisted faculty member speaks out on teaching Air Force Academy cadets
By Laurie Wilson, U.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs / Published March 15, 2017. U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- Three Air Force Academy employees say supporting cadets isn’t just their job, it’s their way of life. Carey Bonnin, wife Bonnie Bonnin, and their daughter, Kim Williams, spend their work time supporting the Academy’s mission of developing leaders of character, and their time-off supporting cadets and showing their Falcon pride. U.S. Air Force Academy supporters Bonnie Bonnin (left), her granddaughter Kayla (middle), and daughter Kim Williams, were featured on a 2014 Falcons basketball season billboard on Interstate 25 near...
A basic cadet gets briefed by members of the cadet cadre during Basic Cadet Training June 28, 2018 at the U.S. Air Force Academy. In all, 1,170 young men and women were scheduled to report to BCT, the most diverse class in Air Force Academy history. (U.S. Air Force photo/Christopher DeWitt) Story by Ray Bowden, June 26, 2018 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- Droves of young men and women reported to Basic Cadet Training at the Air Force Academy June 28. The 1,170 basic cadets make up the most diverse class ever admitted to the Academy, with roughly 34...
U.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs/April 24, 2017 The Astronautics Department here is scheduled to transfer control of its longest-running satellite to amateur radio operators. FalconSAT-3, built by cadets and faculty at the Astronautics Department, launched into space in March 2007 atop an Atlas V rocket for a one-year scientific mission. “FalconSAT-3 has an amazing history,” said Maj. Anna Gunn-Golkin, astronautics instructor. “It’s been an Air Force science and training workhorse for 10 years. FalconSAT-3’s science mission continued well past its design lifetime and, since it's still flying high after its primary mission was completed, the Air Force Academy has...
Continue Reading Astronautics Department to retire ‘workhorse’ satellite
U.S Air Force Academy Public Affairs U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- Natural Resources officials at the Air Force Academy are not surprised by the abundant reports of wildlife. Brain Mihlbachler, Natural Resources official, said surprise visits from wildlife in base housing can be reduced if residents use animal-resistant trash containers with working doors and lids that can be locked or latched. “[Garbage] is dangerous, unnatural and unhealthy for bears and other wildlife,” he said. “It can make wildlife comfortable in populated areas, so remove and secure food or garbage. Mihlbachler said female bears could return to the base housing...
Continue Reading Natural Resources Official Says Getting Rid of Trash is 1 Step to Avoiding Wildlife
Brig. Gen. Gavin Marks accepts command from Brig. Gen. Paul Moga as U.S. Air Force Academy commandant of cadets in a ceremony at Stillman Field June 21, 2023. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Justin Pacheco) By Randy Roughton U.S. Air Force Academy Strategic Communications U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. – As he assumed command of the Cadet Wing, Brig. Gen. Gavin Marks described returning to the U.S. Air Force Academy as “an indescribable honor, deeply personal and uniquely familiar.” Superintendent Lt. Gen. Richard Clark presided over the ceremony at Stillman Field where Marks became the Academy’s 31st commandant when he took...
Continue Reading Brig. Gen. Marks takes command of Cadet Wing
With 29 intercollegiate sports and 10 intramurals, strength and sportsmanship are at the heart of United States Air Force Academy Athletics.
THE GENERAL ENGINEERING MAJOR AT A GLANCE: The General Engineering major is recommended for cadets who prefer a broad, flexible curriculum with a high degree of individual choice.
Journal of Character & Leadership Development and other scholarly publications fosters conversation and research on character and leadership.
Continue Reading Journal of Character and Leadership Development
The Center for Character & Leadership Development (CCLD) ensures integrity and honor are built into ever aspect of the cadet experience.
THE SOCIAL SCIENCE MAJOR AT A GLANCE: Social Sciences deals with human behavior in its social and cultural aspects. At the U.S. Air Force Academy, the following disciplines are within the social sciences: Economics, Geospatial Science, Management, Law, PoliticalScience, Behavioral Science, and Military & Strategic Studies.
The Weekly Lead Senior Capstone focuses on Banned Substances Cadets at the Air Force Academy designed their senior capstone project to educate cadets and Airmen on the Defense Department’s banned substances list, which changes regularly. The project promoted awareness of over-the-counter products containing hemp material and Cannabinol – “CBD – two of many substances you can’t use if you wear a U.S. military uniform. Read about their project here: https://www.usafa.edu/news/af-academy-senior-capstone-increases-awareness-of-banned-substances/ Coronavirus Update The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, has accessed the risk of the Novel Coronavirus to the...
Continue Reading The Weekly Lead: A focus on DoD’s banned substances; coronavirus update & more
Fairchild Hall is home to academic classrooms, science labs, departmental offices and an expanded cadet medical and dental clinic.
Information on page provides transparency into accountability and discipline outcomes pertaining to sexual misconduct disciplinary actions.
Mountaineering Club is deeply rooted in the institution's dedication to physical fitness, resilience, leadership, and teamwork.
Are you someone who cares about the deeper meanings of life? Consider adding the Philosophy minor to your course load. Check out course requirements today.
Each year, a select group of young men and women are offered the opportunity to attend the Academy's 10-month Prep School program.
The Weekly Lead Legacy of Honor Here are a few very notable achievements by black service members who have set the standards for service and sacrifice, brought you by the Air Force Academy’s National African-American Black History Month Observance Committee. https://www.usafa.edu/news/honoring-the-past-securing-the-future-air-force-academy-celebrates-black-history-month Preserving and Protecting The Air Force Academy is committed to preserving natural open land and space at the installation. https://www.usafa.edu/news/usafa-renews-commitment-to-preserve-more-than-16000-acres-of-natural-open-space-land/ The Jabara Award Read about the accomplishments that helped two Academy graduates take home the 2019 Jabara Award. Col. Nick Hague, an astronaut, and Maj. Caitlin Reilly were recognized in a ceremony at the staff tower with Lt. Gen....
Continue Reading The Weekly Lead: Celebrating black history, protecting natural lands & more
Air Force Academy Registrar and Student Academic Affairs offers academic advising, transcripts and resources. Your success is our mission.
The U.S. Air Force Academy has had a common reading program, One Book, One USAFA that creates a shared experience among the basic cadets.
Consider adding the Diversity and Inclusion minor to your course load. Check out course requirements today.
THE BASIC SCIENCES MAJOR AT A GLANCE: The Basic Sciences major is a divisional major incorporating the basic sciences of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics. This divisional program is recommended for cadets already declared in either a Basic Sciences or an Engineering disciplinary major who, for a variety of reasons, find the divisional approach more suited to fulfilling graduation requirements.
Broaden your understanding of the space warfighting domain through a greater socio-cultural understanding of the principle.
With a minor in Religion Studies, cadets can develop a better understanding of cultural and ethical issues within the United States and around the world.
Cadets push themselves each day in pursuit of becoming a leader of character. Take a peek into a day in the life of an Air Force Academy cadet.
Arnold Hall is the cadet social center. It houses a theater, ballroom and numerous lounges and recreation facilities for cadets and visitors.
Staff report, March 24, 2020 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- The U.S. Air Force Academy installation commander declared a public health emergency for the base March 23 due to the evolving threat of COVID-19. Additionally, base officials elevated the Academy's health protection condition to HPCON-Charlie to further safeguard service members, community and the national defense missions supported here. We will continue to put updated information on our Academy social media outlets and at https://www.usafa.af.mil/Coronavirus/ and https://www.usafa.edu/Coronavirus. The declaration of a public health emergency allows the base commander to take certain protective measures, such as restricting base movement and limiting services. The emergency order is in...
Continue Reading AF Academy declares public health emergency
INSS focuses on arms control, strategic stability/security and advising the Air Force arms control community on current and emerging issues of interest.
Story by Whitney Wetsig, Air Force Research Laboratory Public Affairs, Aug. 7, 2020 WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio – With support from the Air Force Research Laboratory, the Air Force Academy expanded its summer research program for undergraduate cadets and is provided virtual research opportunities to the largest group ever in the school’s history. “Thanks to AFRL, many more of our future Air Force and Space Force leaders will be exposed to research during their undergraduate studies,” said Col. Chris McClernon, the Academy's associate dean of research. Seventy-four scientists and engineers from the AFRL advised 165 cadets and worked with them remotely to...
Continue Reading Air Force Research Laboratory supports cadet research
All events held at the Academy are vetted and reviewed for adherence. Learn more about the process and how to host your next event here!
U.S. Air Force Academy Cadets 1st Ciera White (left) and Class Samantha Potter (Courtesy photo from Gina Iberri-Shea) By Ray Bowden, March 8, 2019 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- Two senior cadets have made a name for themselves and the Air Force Academy on the global forensics competition circuit. Air Force Cadets 1st Class Samantha Potter and Ciera White have debated against students at Harvard and Stanford, the universities of Oxford and Cape Town, the London School of Economics and Political Science, and others in the last year. “Forensics is not about dead bodies -- it’s a debate program,”...
Continue Reading Cadets grab attention on world-wide debate stage
By Laurie Wilson, April 8, 2019 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. –- Thanksgiving is months from now but outdoorsmen will be able to hunt wild turkeys on Academy grounds well before the holiday during two 10-person sessions April 13-May 3 and May 4-26. The archery-only event is hosted by the 10th Civil Engineering Squadron’s Natural Resources office to manage the wild turkey overpopulation. Participants are registered and have been selected in a random drawing held in March. Crossbows are not allowed. Brian Mihlbachler, 10th Air Base Wing natural resources planner, said face-to-face briefings with Academy staff were mandated for all participants...
Continue Reading Air Force Academy offers spring wild turkey hunting
From the space shuttle program to honorable graduates, learn about the history of the Air Force Academy—The Expansion Years (1970 – 1999).
The Prep School athletic program mirrors that of the Academy, focusing on competitive sports, physical conditioning/education and fitness testing.
From the birth of the Air Force to breaking ground in Colorado Springs, see how the Air Force Academy got its start—The Early Years (1947 – 1954).
The traditional celebration of the legacy and future of the U.S. Air Force Academy and its founders with speaking engagements and a parade.
The Air Force Academy academic calendar provides cadets an at-a-glance look at upcoming Commander's Calls, exams, holiday breaks and more.
Ring Dance is a milestone event for cadets that traditionally takes place towards the end of their junior year.
Inspire and equip the next generation of leaders. Learn more about STEM Outreach for K-12 students at the United States Air Force Academy.
Vice President Kamala D. Harris U.S. Air Force Academy Strategic Communications U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo. – Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Richard M. Clark and the Class of 2024 are honored to announce Vice President of the United States Kamala Harris as the commencement speaker for the Academy’s graduation ceremony on May 30 in Falcon Stadium. Harris was sworn into office on Jan. 20, 2021 – the first woman to be elected to this position. Her Constitutional responsibilities include serving as the President of the Senate. The 2024 U.S. Air Force Academy Graduation is planned to be open to ticket-holding...
Continue Reading U.S. vice president named Class of 2024 commencement speaker
Check out our collection of past symposium video playlists, photo albums, and programs! All are available at NCLS in Review.
No matter what your background, life as a cadet will be different from anything you’ve experienced before.
Broadcasting live from the United States Air Force Academy, 97.7 The Academy is a cadet run radio station. Tune in to never miss a beat.
Lt. Gen. Richard M. Clark, superintendent of the Air Force Academy (U.S. Air Force photo/Trevor Cokley) Story by Ray Bowden, Sept. 23, 2020 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- Lt. Gen. Richard M. Clark is excited. He’s the new superintendent at the Air Force Academy and while he knows he’s got big responsibilities to handle as the school’s top officer, he said the weight of those duties is eased by the enthusiasm he feels about cadets. “They are why I’m here. They are why we’re all here,” he said. “Doing all I can to enhance their development and make their dreams...
Continue Reading Academy’s 21st superintendent reports for duty
By Ray Bowden, U.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- National Cyber Security Awareness Month ends Oct. 31, but an Air Force Academy information security expert said computer security is worthy of year-round attention. “It’s a daily concern,” said Angie Thorpe, the Academy's Information System security manager. “Last year, numerous department stores and corporations were hacked. Various restaurants and customer-service businesses found their computer security breached and, in many cases, hackers gained access to the credit card information of thousands of consumers.” Last year, the National Security Administration and the CIA investigated a computer attack...
Continue Reading Academy Marks Cyber Security Awareness Month
Exposing cadets to hands-on experiences in surveying, construction methods and construction materials in a “construct first, design later” methodology.
News feature: 'Read the Ingredients' Cadet 1st Class Melissa Brunkal speaks to a class of law students at the Air Force Academy, Feb. 25. She and Cadets 1st Class Alex Hankhouse, Hailee Macias and Isaac Turner presented their capstone project concerning Defense Department and Air Force drug policies and familiarizing cadets and Airmen with the DoD banned substances list. Story by Ray Bowden, photos by Trang Le, Feb. 5, 2020 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- Four law students hope their senior capstone project helps cadets at the Air Force Academy make smart decisions about products containing ingredients and substances banned...
Continue Reading AF Academy senior capstone increases awareness of banned substances
Maj Erin Almand tests COVID samples By Nicole Cox, USAFA Graduate Liaison When the United States Air Force Academy made the difficult decision to send the majority of the cadet wing home in March, its faculty and staff immediately got to work to find ways to protect cadets and the Academy mission. Experts from multiple disciplines came together to tackle the problem and answer an important question from the Superintendent: how might we safely return the entire cadet wing to the Academy for in-person instruction during the ongoing pandemic? Maj Erin Almand, a 2009 Graduate and Assistant Professor in the...
by Ashley D. Murphy, Strategic Communications The U.S. Air Force Academy has created a new position to help further develop cadets into future rated Air Force officers through purposeful and intentional exposure to aviation and Airmanship. The term “rated” refers to an aeronautical Air Force Specialty Code with job duties which entail piloting an aircraft or the operation of aircraft systems and sensors. The Academy’s Operations Career Field Manager responsibilities include scheduling, advising and advocating for cadets and cadet involvement in Airmanship programs while working hand-in-hand with the Cadet Wing and all Academy mission elements to implement a four-year Airmanship...
Continue Reading Academy creates more operations-focused opportunities
THE HUMANITIES MAJOR AT A GLANCE: The Humanities major at USAFA provides cadets with the opportunities to explore the breadth of the humanities disciplines and to pursueinterdisciplinary as well as individualized learning and research.
The Cadet Chapel is the most recognizable building at the Air Force Academy and the most visited man-made tourist attraction in Colorado.
These helping agencies support and enhance the physical, spiritual, social, and mental wellbeing of our Academy community.
About 75% of cadets are involved in at least one of the Academy’s more than 90 active clubs, covering everything from fishing to falconry.
Basic Cadet Training (BCT), the first of many challenges at the Academy, where a commitment to pushing your limits is key to succeeding.
Members of the Long Blue Line, graduates of the Academy, can find alumni news, events and ways to connect with the Academy family.
JOHNSON SPACE CENTER, Texas -- U.S. Air Force Academy graduate and NASA astronaut Col. Nick Hague, discusses his upcoming trip to the International Space Station during a news conference at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, June 18, 2018. Hague and Alexey Ovchinin, Russian Roscosmos cosmonaut, will journey to the ISS on Oct. 11, 2018, aboard the Roscosmos Soyuz MS-10 spacecraft, launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. R.J. Biermann) Story and photo by Tech. Sgt. R.J. Biermann, Air Forces Cyber Public Affairs, June 22, 2018 JOHNSON SPACE CENTER, Texas (AFNS) -- Surrounded by media representatives and...
By Ray Bowden, May 18, 2020 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- The Air Force Academy’s superintendent announced May 7 that the school is preparing for the June arrival of its next class of cadets. “We’re establishing quarantine guidance, testing, and restriction of movement policies that mirror the guidelines and policies of the Defense Department and State of Colorado,” said Lt. Gen. Jay Silveria, the Academy’s superintendent. Brig. Gen. Michele Edmondson, commandant of cadets, said despite the coronavirus outbreak posing more than a few challenges to the school and U.S. military at large, the Academy’s military and academic training continues....
Continue Reading ‘I-Day’ Update: Academy preps for arrival of class of 2024
Cadets learn skills to survive. Combat Survival Training teaches skills needed to survive in an austere environment.
The Air Force Academy’s planetarium project manager grew up in Ashtead, Surrey, a village 25 miles southwest of London. Her father was an art director and her mother ran the home. She loved learning and channeled her father’s drive to succeed. At 10-years-old, following her father’s death, she applied to a prestigious all-girls private school where she earned a full scholarship. Now, she could make her father proud. Judy Cara may have grown up in England, but a young Marine serving at the embassy, where they both worked, stole her heart and they moved to the U.S. She now lives just...
Continue Reading England native ups Academy planetarium’s STEM center to next level
By Meade Warthen/Sept. 14, 2017 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. – The Air Force Academy received several top college rankings from the U.S. News & World Report this week. The Academy ranked number two in Aerospace/Aeronautical/Astronautical Engineering at schools where doctorate degrees are not offered, just behind Emory Riddle Aeronautical University, Prescott, Ariz. The school also tied for second place with the U.S. Military Academy (West Point) in High School Counselor Ranking at Liberal Arts Colleges. The number 3 ranking for Top Public Schools Ranking also went to the Academy. The Academy tied for fifth place with U.S. Naval Academy...
Sending mail to cadets is easier when family and friends have the correct mailing information. Here are our postmaster's tips and guidance.
Discover the architecture, cutting-edge learning centers, historic relics, and outdoor retreats that the Air Force Academy has to offer.
Staff report, March 12, 2020 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. – As a precautionary measure, and in response to the world and nationwide spread of COVID-19, the U.S. Air Force Academy will temporarily close to visitors as of Friday, March 13, 2020 at 5 p.m. While we understand this action will be disappointing to some, your health and safety as well as that of our military, civilian personnel, family members and base community is our top priority. There are no reported cases of COVID-19 on the Academy; however, Academy leadership will continue to evaluate the situation and take risk-based measures...
Continue Reading Air Force Academy to temporarily close to visitors starting March 13
Parents Weekend schedule of events include Cadet Wing Parade, Information Fair, and Academic, Squadron, Athletic and Airfield open houses.
DoD Warrior Games Public Affairs, Feb. 16, 2018 COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AFNS) -- Community and business leaders joined military representatives at the Air Force Academy Feb. 15 to mark the 100-day countdown until athletes arrive in Colorado for the 2018 Department of Defense Warrior Games. Now in its ninth year, the Warrior Games are returning to Colorado Springs, the city that hosted the inaugural Games in 2010. The event is free and open to the public throughout the competition, June 2-9. The Warrior Games are a Paralympic-style competition between the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force and Special Operations Command. The...
Continue Reading Warrior Games to return to Colorado Springs
Expand your horizons at the U.S. Air Force Academy, a public university and a military academy with an experience that is unlike any other!
Cadet records, registration, scheduling and information updates. Welcome to Customer Services at the United States Air Force Academy.
(Courtesy photo) By Jennifer Spradlin, Jan. 28, 2019 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- Earlier this month the competitive parachute team from the Air Force Wings of Blue won 37 medals at the National Collegiate Parachuting Championship in Eloy, Arizona. Seventy-three skydivers from 13 universities, including other service academies, participated in the multi-day event. The cadets said they look forward to the annual competition, which is the longest-running skydiving competition in the U.S., although their primary mission is training other cadets in the Airmanship program here. “The experience is truly something to be cherished,” said Cadet 1st Class Daniel Zivney. “The...
Continue Reading AF Wings of Blue wins big at collegiate championships
PACE Profession of Arms Center of Excellence, Nov 9, 2017 Today marks the 50th Anniversary of the day Capt. Sijan ejected over North Vietnam. Ejected from his fighter jet over Laos in 1967, Sijan spent 46 days and nights evading capture from the Viet Cong. When captured he was 80 pounds and close to death. But he was a million miles away from giving up. Lance believed in freedom and his fellow Airmen. He died on January 22, 1968 and was the first Air Force Academy graduate to receive the Medal of Honor. He lived the code of conduct to...
Continue Reading Unbroken Will: The Captain Lance P. Sijan Story
The Cadet Chapel peeks through the fog on a cold November day at the U.S. Air Force Academy. (Photo /Tech. Sgt. Benjamin W. Stratton) Public Affairs staff report, Dec. 13, 2019 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. – Services will not be held at the Cadet Chapel on Christmas Eve this year. The chapel is undergoing major structural work and is predicted to be closed for four years. We know holiday services at the Cadet Chapel can be an important tradition for many and appreciate the patience of our guests as the vital restoration and repairs on this historical building continue....
Continue Reading Cadet Chapel renovations alter Christmas service schedule
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(U.S. Air Force Academy photo) By Ray Bowden, Feb. 19, 2019 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- Air Force Academy officials are close to putting a stamp on the report they’ll show the Higher Learning Commission in April. The report or argument as the HLC refers to it, is a document that shows how the school stays in line with the commission’s criteria. “Our argument really walks through our institutional structure pretty well,” said Col. Dan Uribe, Academy point man for the academic side of the accreditation and head of the school’s foreign languages department. “The argument shows the quality of...
Continue Reading Academy officials host final accreditation town hall meeting
1st Lt. Abraham Eaton goes inverted on a T-38 test flight. Photo courtesy 1st Lt. Abraham Eaton. By Rachelle Stoll, Strategic Communications. Did you know the Air Force Academy is a pipeline for the Air Force Test Pilot School? The process has been recently been optimized and two former cadets share their experiences with TPS and tell us how the Academy prepared them for success. 1st Lt. Abraham Eaton recalls getting motion sickness on playground swings as a young child, but that never kept him from wanting to fly. Once he became a cadet at the Air Force Academy, he found...
Continue Reading Want to fly without being a pilot? Here’s how.
Continue Reading Project on Advanced Systems and Concepts for Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction
Story and Photos by Jennifer Spradlin, Feb. 27, 2020 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. – The 10th Air Base Wing drew attention to the topic of intimate partner violence with the installation’s first Black Eye Campaign, Feb. 25. Civilian and military volunteers wore makeup to simulate abuse-related injuries on their faces and upper torsos. The volunteers worked a normal schedule in their duty areas and reported reactions to their injuries. “I have had several people approach me after bystander prevention training [in the past] and say, ‘this is great, but is there a way we can get some hands-on training,’”...
Continue Reading 10th ABW focuses on intimate partner violence with Black Eye Campaign
The Academy SAPR team provides awareness and prevention programs, and caring and dedicated response to victims of sexual assault.
U.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs, Nov. 19, 2019 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. – – Leon E. Panetta, former Secretary of Defense and director of the Central Intelligence Agency, is scheduled to be a keynote speaker for the annual National Character and Leadership Symposium at the Air Force Academy, Feb. 21-22. The annual event brings together thought leaders from diverse backgrounds to speak about the importance of sound moral character and leadership. Also scheduled to present are Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Kaleth Wright and Caryl Stern, president and CEO of United Nations International Children’s Emergency...
Continue Reading Academy to host former SECDEF at Leadership Symposium
An intricate framework of glass and steel, Polaris Hall is the state-of-the-art home of our character and leadership development programs.
(U.S. Air Force photo/Trevor Cokley) Story by Ray Bowden, April 12, 2019 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- The Air Force Academy’s top officer hosted his State of the U.S. Air Force Academy briefing in Polaris Hall, April 12. Lieutenant Gen. Jay Silveria, the Academy's superintendent, said the annual briefings are among the many ways the Academy communicates with its community and encouraged the audience and those viewing the event online to stay in touch. “It’s certainly a pleasure for me to talk about my alma mater,” he said. Among other topics, Silveria announced the Air Force had postponed repairs...
Continue Reading Academy supt shares successes, challenges at annual ‘State of the Academy’ brief
Story by Jennifer Spradlin, photo by Sarah Goldblum, Oct. 23, 2020 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- The Air Force Academy will host its 12th Annual Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Forum virtually, Oct. 27 and 29. SoTL uses a systematic research approach to understanding teaching and learning to improve student’s academic outcomes. For example, instructors might examine the impact of adding technology to the classroom or the implementation of team-based learning. This year’s keynote speaker is Dr. Jeff Karpicke, a renowned cognitive psychologist from Purdue University who has researched learning and memory in laboratory settings. Results from his lab illustrate the...
Staff Reports, Aug. 20, 2019 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. – The iconic Cadet Chapel at the United States Air Force Academy will close for more than three years beginning Sept. 4 for necessary repairs. After removing the Chapel’s furnishings and other preparations, the actual work on the $158 million project will begin on Nov. 1 and projected for completion on Nov. 1, 2022. Visitors now have a little more than two weeks to visit this registered National Historic Landmark, also ranked Colorado’s No. 1 man-made attraction, before the preservation and restoration process begins. The Chapel will be open through...
Continue Reading Cadet Chapel to close for restoration project Sept. 4
By U.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs/Aug. 24, 2017 U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo. – Forty-six members stationed at the U.S. Air Force Academy have been selected for promotion to staff sergeant. Overall, there were 14,181 selected to enter the non-commissioned officer ranks out of 32,006 eligible, for a selection rate of 44.31 percent. Those selected for staff sergeant will be promoted beginning Sept. 1, according to their promotion sequence number. For more information about Air Force personnel programs, go to myPers: https://mypers.af.mil/. 10th Air Base Wing Tyler Alexander Erin Barriga Evan Bauder Christopher Blackmon James Blashka Blake Boren Travis...
Continue Reading AF selects 46 USAFA Airmen for promotion to staff sergeant
(Photo / Trevor Cokely) U.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs staff report U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. – The Air Force Academy's Natural Resources Office will host a controlled deer hunt Dec. 7-8 and Dec. 14-15. Frequently used roads and trails in the hunting areas will be posted with bright orange "Area Closed: Authorized Personnel Only" signs. The Falcon Trail, archery range, Pine Valley horse pastures, and parcourse will also be posted and closed during the hunting dates. Academy officials urge personnel and visitors to avoid roads and trails leading to the hunting areas. The hunt is designed to control the deer...
Continue Reading Academy deer hunt set for Dec 7-8, Dec 14-15
Story by Jennifer Spradlin, June 25, 2019 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- Two Air Force Academy graduates from the Class of 2019 have been nominated to attend the Air Force Test Pilot School in 2022 as part of a new training partnership between the two institutions. Test Pilot School is a highly competitive, 48-week, educational opportunity for aviators, combat systems officers, remotely piloted aircraft pilots and engineers. Graduates of the course receive a master’s of science in flight test engineering and go on to test a variety of aerospace weapon systems for use in the Air Force. Col. Brian Neff,...
Continue Reading AF Academy teams up with Test Pilot School in new candidacy program
U.S. Air Force Academy Cadet Ethan Haley prepares his sling during the rifle marksmanship portion of the international military competition. United States service members participated in the 2019 Interallied Confederation of Reserve Officers (CIOR) Military Competition Commission in Tallinn, Estonia, Aug 4-10, 2019. (Staff Sgt. Nina Ramon ) 205th Press Camp Headquarters By Ray Bowden, Sept. 10, 2019 U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo. -- Two cadets and an officer at the Air Force Academy helped Team USA win several medals at a military challenge in Estonia last month. Cadets Ethan Haley and Thomas Walker, and Lt. Col. Rob Marshall, competed in...
Continue Reading AF Academy cadets compete for 1st time in reserve officers’ competition in Estonia
U.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs, May 6, 2020 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- A satellite built by Air Force Academy cadets will launch into space May 16 aboard the X-37B, Orbital Test Vehicle sponsored by the Department of the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office and built by Boeing. This is the first time a satellite built and designed by cadets will catch a ride into space aboard the X-37B. (See the May 6 report from the Secretary of the Air Force about the launch here: https://www.spaceforce.mil/News/Article/2177702/next-x-37b-orbital-test-vehicle-scheduled-to-launch) Lt. Col. Dan Showalter, assistant astronautics professor at the Academy, said “as novel as this...
Continue Reading Air Force Academy satellite to launch aboard X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle
Brig. Gen. Christian Funk, a 1985 graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, chats with Troy Calhoun, head coach of the Air Force Falcons football team. Story and photo by Master Sgt. Chance Babin, Air Force Reserve Command Public Affairs, April 1, 2019 ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Brig. Gen. Christian Funk has come a long way since his days as a standout defensive end on the Air Force Academy football team in the early 1980s. From fighter pilot to wing commander to his current assignment as the deputy director of strategy, concepts and assessments for the deputy chief of...
Continue Reading AFRC general, Air Force Academy football standout, reflects on career
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Story by Jennifer Spradlin, Aug. 23, 2019 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. – Leanne Trump grew up listening to stories about service and aviation dating back to World War II. A self-described military brat who grew up on Air Force Bases across the country, Trump developed a love for flying before she ever climbed into a cockpit. Now a senior at the Academy, Trump recently completed her first solo flight at the Flight Training Center and is pursuing her private pilot’s license. Exposure to the Academy’s Aero Club staff and additional flight lessons have helped Trump decide to pursue aviation...
Continue Reading Flight Training Center benefits cadets, Academy community
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WASHINGTON (Jan. 23, 2021) Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III poses for his official portrait in the Army portrait studio at the Pentagon in Arlington, Va., Jan 23, 2020.(U.S. Army photo by Spc. XaViera Masline) By U.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. - U.S. Air Force Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Richard M. Clark and the Class of 2022 are honored to announce the 28th Secretary of Defense, Lloyd Austin III, will be the commencement speaker for the Class of 2022 Graduation Ceremony May 25, 2022. Austin was sworn in as the 28th Secretary of Defense January 22, 2021. He's is...
Continue Reading Secretary of Defense Austin named Class of ‘22 commencement speaker