by CCSD-1 Staff

Custer County graduate Celestina Barnes is in a select group. This past spring she was awarded a Air Force Academy nomination by the office of Colorado Senator Michael Bennett. Although Barnes did not receive an appointment to the Academy, she is still passionate about her dream of becoming a pilot in the Air Force.
“I remember seeing planes take off and land at the Silver Cliff Airport,” recalls Barnes. “And this has inspired me to chase the dream of becoming a pilot in the Air Force!” To fulfill this dream, Barnes began the process of applying to the Air Force Academy. Her journey began during her freshman year when school volunteer Walter van Woudenberg connected Barnes with mentor Monty Lee. It was a perfect match as Lee graduated from the Academy and served 26 years in the Air Force and in addition was an Academy Liaison Officer for four years with the Air Force. “My role as a Liaison Officer was to counsel students interested in the Air Force Academy,” noted Lee. “So it was a natural fit to work with Celestina and her desire to attend the Academy.” Continue reading CCHS Graduate Continues To Chase Her Dream →