Scholarship Class of 2022

Rachel Keisling

Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Rachel Keisling is a 2022 graduating senior from the JROTC detachment in Derry, NH, and is the 2022 recipient of the Capt. Phaneuf Aviation Scholarship. Rachel accumulated over 35 hours towards her private pilot's license at the time of her scholarship award. In addition to her impressive flight experience, Rachel is an academic all-star: she ranks in the top 1% of her academic class, is a member of the National Honor Society and the National Foreign Language Society, and is the recipient of the Randolph College Book Award. Rachel's athletic achievements rival her academic prowess as well: she is a four-time recipient of the Scholar Athlete Award (twice in volleyball and twice in softball); was selected for Division 1 First Team All-State in softball; received the Presidential Physical Fitness award; and as a member of the U.S. Telemark Ski Association, she placed twice in Nationals competitions earning third place in Women's Overall in 2020 and second place in Women's Overall in 2022. Rachel's academic and sports participation was enhanced by her demonstrated leadership capabilities in and out of JROTC. Within the JROTC program, she held the position of Operations Support Squadron Commander (where she has responsibility for over 130 cadets), among other previous leadership positions of Flight Commander, Flight Sergeant, and Element Leader. Outside of the JROTC program, she furthermore held leadership positions as a part of her school's student council, as a part of the school's Leadership Council of Athletes, and as a Girl Scout member. She was further recognized for her leadership influence as the recipient of the AMVETS Recognition for Leadership, Discipline, and Character; and the Daedalian's award for Outstanding Performance as a Cadet. All of this is on top of her service to her community and her church. UPDATE: As of July 2022, Rachel completed her student pilot training, earning her aeronautical certification as a private pilot! Rachel has enrolled at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University where she will pursue her baccalaureate degree starting Fall 2022.