Gila Ridge High School senior Sarah Marceau received her appointment to join the Air Force Academy on Monday. Marceau was joined by her family, school staff, and Air Force members in a recognition ceremony held at the school.

Marceau will receive the equivalent of a 4-year, full-ride scholarship during her time at the academy. She plans on majoring in aerospace engineering with a minor in a language, and eventually work on an advanced degree.

“I’ve been given an amazing opportunity to continue my education, learn more, and hopefully protect the people living in the United States and those outside that we also protect,” Marceau said. “It feels like a tremendous gift that I was selected and they saw the potential in me.”

During her time at GRHS, Marceau has been a member of the National Honor Society, ran cross country, danced ballet, tutored math at Arizona Western College, and volunteered in the community. Next month, she will graduate from high school with five associate degrees from AWC in engineering, physics, math, arts, and science. 

“She’s the first student in three years from Yuma to join the Air Force,” Retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Kristin Pereira said. “She will be a wonderful cadet and will be a wonderful representative of Yuma and Arizona.”  

More than 10,000 applicants apply to the Air Force Academy each year with only 1,250 from around the nation appointed to join. Candidates selected to join the academy are those with high academic achievements, demonstrable leadership, outstanding athletic ability, good moral character, and has shown a commitment to volunteer service. 

“I am speechless.” her mother Carmen Marceau said. “We are witnessing that behind this award to the Air Force Academy there is lots of love and support from family members, teachers, friends, and community. Because together we encouraged a young woman to fulfill a dream, my lovely daughter, Sarah. And for that I am extremely grateful. My heart is full of admiration and respect for my daughter's dedication, hard work, and focus.”

Marceau will be attending the academy in Colorado Springs, CO and will begin bootcamp to become an officer on June 29. 

“Sarah is an inspirational young lady,” GHRS Counselor Aurora Frost said. “She realizes more than many that one must always be willing to work hard in order to obtain lofty goals. I have no doubt that she will do amazing wherever life takes her.”