Watertown High Senior Malia Kranz Receives Principal Nomination to U.S. Air Force Academy

Steve Jurrens
Dec 2
2 min read

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - Watertown High School senior Malia Kranz has received a highly competitive principal nomination to the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) in Colorado Springs, U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) announced today.

The principal nomination signifies that Kranz is the top choice candidate selected by Senator Rounds’ office for the Academy. While not a guarantee of appointment, the designation ensures the Academy will offer a guaranteed appointment to the nominee, provided they meet all academic, physical, and medical admission requirements.

Kranz, the daughter of Raymond and Julianne Kranz, is known for her excellence both in academics and athletics. She currently maintains a 4.0 GPA and is a member of the National Honor Society. On the field, Kranz is a two-time state champion track and field athlete and plays on the varsity basketball team.

Beyond her academic and athletic achievements, Kranz is actively involved in the Watertown community, serving as an Arrow Ambassador and on the Watertown High School student council. Her commitment to service extends to younger students, where she volunteers as a mentor at Watertown Intermediate School, a Kindness Lesson Leader for elementary students, and a recess monitor at Mellette Elementary.

Senator Rounds commended Kranz’s achievement. “Malia is committed to serving our country in the United States Air Force after receiving a top-notch education at Colorado Springs,” said Rounds. “She’s worked hard to get to this point, and we know she will excel at the Air Force Academy.”

Kranz expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “I am deeply grateful to Senator Mike Rounds for the principal nomination to the United States Air Force Academy. Without the relentless encouragement from my family, friends, and community, this opportunity would not have been possible. I am eager to take on the challenges ahead and honored to serve our nation with integrity, discipline, and dedication.”

Admission to a service academy requires a rigorous application process, including a required Congressional nomination. Those who receive an appointment are awarded a full scholarship and a military commission, requiring a service commitment of at least five years upon graduation.