DATA senior receives West Point appointment

Staff Reports | Photo Courtesy Steven Willaford |

Cadet LTC Evan Pape is the Battalion Commander and a senior at the Design and Technology Academy. He recently completed the intensive application and screening process for nomination and admission as a cadet at the United States Military Academy at West Point.  On March 20, Evan was recognized for his achievement at a morning reception in his honor.  Congressman Henry Cuellar (his nominator), Evan’s parents and family, NEISD Associate Superintendent Dr. Donna Newman, NEISD Board of Trustee Members Mrs. Shannon Grona and Mr. Jim Wheat, Principal Melvin Echard, DATA Director Russell Claughton, ROTC Commander LTC (R) Robert Foutz, NEISD Director of Army Instruction Col. (R) Robert Henson and other guests were present at the ceremony.

“I knew in middle school that I wanted to serve my country in the armed forces. In my ninth grade year my physics teacher Mr. G and Co.l Foutz talked to me about the academies,” Pape said.

Being accepted for admission to the United States Military Academy (USMA) at West Point is a very rare feat. Each year, approximately 15,000 apply, 4000 are nominated, and after a thorough screening process, approximately 1100 cadets become a member of the “Long Gray Line.”

“It’s an honor to be part of such a small group,” Pape said. “It’s really cool. ”

The USMA looks at students with top grades who are physically fit and of outstanding character. Pape will receive a college education that is unparalleled in the world with tuition, room and board and expenses fully paid.

“The Academy opens more doors because it’s a more prestigious school,” Pape said.

During his senior year he will find out what specialized field he will enter.  Upon graduation, Evan will be commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army and serve for five years on active duty. He hopes to ultimately become a helicopter pilot or part of the Core of Engineers.