Kenneth Hawkins Appointed to U.S. Merchant Marine Academy

Kenneth Hawkins, a Huachuca City resident and 2025 graduate of Benson High School, has earned an appointment to the prestigious United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA). Hawkins, who finished in the Top 10 of his graduating class, was recognized for his achievements during a special ceremony with his family at the Cochise College Benson campus on Thursday, May 29, 2025. During the event, he received a Congressional Certificate of Recognition and a Congressional coin.

Throughout high school, Hawkins demonstrated outstanding academic and extracurricular involvement. He was named to the Dean’s List all four years, participated in the National Honor Society, and was active in the FCCLA Club. As a Student Council Senior Class Representative, he exemplified leadership among his peers.

Hawkins’s passion for soccer has been a defining part of his journey, starting from the age of three and culminating in his role as Team Captain for the Benson High School Varsity Soccer Team. Under his leadership, the team reached the State Championship for the first time in more than a decade. Beyond soccer, he is a percussionist and an avid indoor go-kart racer.

Hawkins aspires to become an officer and aviation pilot after completing the rigorous curriculum at the Merchant Marine Academy. He is eager to develop his leadership skills through real-world experiences and sees the academy as a gateway to exploring the world and advancing his professional career.

His path to the USMMA was not easy. Hawkins participated in a competitive and highly selective nomination process, which required applicants to be interviewed by a selection board. The board then recommended their nominations to the Congressman, and those nominated were invited to apply for admission to a service academy. This month, Congressman Ciscomani hosted a send-off ceremony for U.S. Service Academy appointees, including Hector Lepley from Tombstone High School and Nathan Whitworth from Buena High School, both also appointed to the USMMA.

Kenneth said this appointment comes after a long road of hard work and determination. He is ready to embark on this new chapter, dedicating himself to serving the United States.