March 2009

Kiosk this weekend - Commandant's Department - LTC Ivens

LTC Al Ivens, FUMA Commandant and alumnus, will be at the kiosk this weekend. LTC Ivens brings a unique perspective to the Academy as he has been on "both sides of the fence" as a cadet and now as the Head of the military program in our Upper School. LTC Ivens also works in admissions when school is not in session, and can answer any questions you may have regarding possible enrollment.

Reenrollment forms are on the way

Current families should keep an eye out for the re-enrollment packets which were mailed earlier this week. While it is hard to believe that this year is almost over, we are always looking toward the future. Please call the admissions office if you have not received your packet by early next week. 434.842.4205

"You take anyone, don't you?"

I recently had a discussion with a colleague regarding the number of times we get asked the question: "Don't you take anyone who applies?" Believe it or not, the admissions process to FUMA is as stringent as other college preparatory schools. We look closely at a student's background and general ability level and try to make sure each young man that comes to the Academy is "mission appropriate." We want to afford young men an opportunity to be successful at FUMA, and not merely to "throw caution to the wind" and accept a student "hoping" it might work out.

Summer ESL being offered at FUMA

I am pleased to report, as a service to our international students, we have developed an ESL course for the summer program. This credited course will include classroom instruction and provide opportunities for cultural immersion through trips to Washington, DC, Williamsburg, VA and other locations new our campus. In addition to ESL, students will also participate in our summer sports as part of the summer program. For more information please contact our International Student Coordinator, Cindi McIlnay at 434.842.4202 or via email at mcilnayc@fuma.org.

Kiosk this weekend

I will be at the Tysons kiosk (yes, again!) this weekend. Please stop by if you have any questions about Fork Union or military school in general.

Spring Break at FUMA

The cadets and faculty are enjoying some well deserved time off this week. Please note that the admissions office is open and you are WELCOME TO VISIT if you would like to see the campus. Please give us a call at 434.842.4358 if you would like to set up an appointment.

Recent events on campus

A summary of some of the recent events we have had on and off campus to strengthen the cadets' spiritual lives. In addition to our chapel services three times a week, there are various opportunities for spiritual formation. On Sunday, March 1, CPT Mavrick took a group of our participants in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) to do some volunteer work at the Special Olympics event in Richmond. On Friday, March 6, the musical group The Isaacs performed to a full house in the Wicker Chapel.

No phones!

Yes, unfortunately, we are without phones right now, due to our recent winter weather. Please email us for any information or to schedule a visit. You can reach the Admissions office at the following email addresses: Kim Shaver, shaverk@fuma.org; Mike Williams, williamm@fuma.org; Cindi McIlnay at mcilnayc@fuma.org; or Steve Macek at maceks@fuma.org. If you live in the Northern Virginia area, feel free to stop by and see me at the kiosk in Tysons Corner Center this Saturday or Sunday.

Tyson's Corner this Weekend

I will be at Tyson's Corner Center again this weekend - Saturday and Sunday. We are enrolling students for our summer and fall programs at this time. Not sure if a college preparatory military school is a good option for your son? I would be happy to discuss the advantages that attending FUMA might offer.