Theodore Roosevelt Association Announces 2026 Wings Over America Scholarship Recipients
June19, 2026
The Theodore Roosevelt Association (TRA) is proud to announce the recipients of the
2026 Wings Over America Scholarship Program, providing educational support to family members of sailors who have served aboard the
USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71).
This year, the TRA awarded $10,000 in scholarships among five outstanding recipients—the largest scholarship commitment in the program's history provided by the Theodore Roosevelt Association. Through this partnership, the TRA continues to honor the legacy of President Theodore Roosevelt by investing in the next generation of leaders.
"We are honored to recognize these outstanding students whose achievements reflect the enduring values of Theodore Roosevelt and the proud tradition of service represented by the USS Theodore Roosevelt," said Chris Cosentino, Executive Director of the Theodore Roosevelt Association. "Their dedication to academic success, community engagement, and personal growth gives us confidence that they will make meaningful contributions to their professions, their communities, and our nation."
This year's scholarship recipients embody the values that Theodore Roosevelt championed throughout his life—courage, perseverance, service, leadership, and a commitment to excellence. Coming from military families who have experienced the unique challenges and opportunities of Navy life, these students have distinguished themselves through academic achievement, community service, and leadership in their schools and communities.
Brady Semones – East Carolina University
A graduate from Moyock, North Carolina,
Brady Semones, sponsored by
CDR Travis Semones, will attend
East Carolina University as a freshman pursuing engineering or cybersecurity with a minor in computer science. Brady has demonstrated leadership as the National English Honor Society president and treasurer, served as a student representative for the Knights of the Round Table, and contributed extensively through volunteer work with the American Red Cross and the Currituck County Animal Shelter. Brady views the scholarship as both an honor and a responsibility, inspiring him to continue leading through service and action while pursuing his academic and professional goals.
Campbell Fox – Virginia Tech
Campbell Fox of Norfolk, Virginia, sponsored by
LT Andrew Fox, is entering his junior year at
Virginia Tech, where he studies
Crop and Soil Environmental Sciences. An active member of Virginia Tech's nationally recognized soil judging team, Campbell has embraced the university's motto, Ut Prosim ("That I May Serve"), as a guiding principle. Drawing inspiration from his father's service aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt, Campbell hopes to contribute to environmental conservation and stewardship while continuing his academic research and field studies.
Maximilian Gammache – Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Representing Oak Harbor, Washington,
Maximilian Gammache, sponsored by
CAPT Nathan Gammache, is a junior majoring in
Computer Science at
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. A CyberPatriot captain, Civil Air Patrol participant, and community volunteer, Maximilian credits his military family background with providing opportunities to experience diverse communities across the country. Through numerous moves and new beginnings, he has developed resilience and a commitment to improving the communities around him through service, fundraising, and youth arts initiatives.
Katelynn Jackson – Texas A&M University
Katelynn Jackson of San Antonio, Texas, sponsored by
LCDR Christopher Jackson, will begin her freshman year at
Texas A&M University, studying
Forensic Investigative Science. Throughout her life as part of a Navy family, Katelynn has developed resilience, adaptability, and perseverance while balancing academic achievement with volunteer service. Her involvement with the National Charity League, Ronald McDonald House, and retirement community outreach programs reflects her dedication to helping others. Katelynn sees the scholarship as an affirmation of her commitment to leadership, integrity, service, and academic excellence.
Joshua Knicely – West Virginia University
A sophomore at
West Virginia University, Joshua Knicely of Parkersburg, West Virginia, sponsored by
PO3 Jeffrey Knicely, is pursuing a degree in
Engineering. Joshua has remained active through engineering organizations, volunteer service, athletics, and academic honor societies. He credits his father's Navy service for instilling the values of discipline and perseverance that have guided his educational journey. Joshua expressed gratitude not only for the financial support but also for the encouragement that allows him to remain focused on achieving excellence in his studies.
The Theodore Roosevelt Association's support of the Wings Over America Scholarship Program reflects the organization's ongoing commitment to fostering leadership, character, and service among young Americans. Like Theodore Roosevelt himself, these scholarship recipients have demonstrated a willingness to embrace challenges, pursue excellence, and contribute to something larger than themselves.
The Theodore Roosevelt Association congratulates Brady Semones, Campbell Fox, Maximilian Gammache, Katelynn Jackson, and Joshua Knicely and wishes them continued success as they pursue their educational and professional aspirations.