When Michael Evenhouse applied for a nomination for admission into the United States Air Force Academy (AFA) and was denied, he didn’t let it get him down. Instead, he used that denial as motivation to become a better candidate so the next time he applied, the outcome would be different. He is proof that good things do come to those who wait and to those who work hard for what they want.

Evenhouse was recently honored at a special event at Davenport University’s W.A. Lettinga Grand Rapids Campus, where Dr. Richard J. Pappas, president, presented him with his appointment to the AFA.

“It was so meaningful to be recognized and celebrated for receiving this appointment. It was a great experience that marked my transition from civilian life as a student to military life as a cadet,” Evenhouse said.

He first applied for a nomination when he was a freshman studying computer science at Davenport. After receiving the disappointing denial, he began working hard to improve his application because he knew he had the potential to succeed.

As Evenhouse can attest, the process of being accepted to the AFA is a long and difficult one. First, a candidate who wishes to be accepted to a U.S. service academy must secure a nomination from a congressman or senator. In order to clear this first hurdle, one must submit an impressive application and perform well during a personal interview. If nominated, the candidate’s application then goes to the AFA for another round of stringent reviews.

“Over the last year, I improved my application in three major areas: academics, athleticism, and extracurricular activities,” said Evenhouse. “I made the Dean’s List both semesters at Davenport with a 3.8 GPA and improved my SAT score by over 100 points. I also continued training and competing in boxing, as well as doing volunteer work.” 

In January, Evenhouse received the news he’d been waiting for. “I received a call from Congressman Bill Huizenga in January notifying me of my appointment,” he said. “I was relieved and proud — it felt like the work I put in and the risks I took paid off.” 

Evenhouse credits Davenport’s learning environment and professors for contributing to his growth, which ultimately led to his acceptance into the U.S. AFA. “Having knowledgeable professors who were truly invested in my success helped me stay motivated and focused throughout my time at Davenport,” he said. “Access to resources like computer labs and athletic centers provided the support I needed to thrive both academically and physically.”

One of Evenhouse’s biggest supporters is his mother, Kristen. She worked at Davenport for ten years, in Customer Service, Admissions, and as a partner manager for the College of Urban Education.

She said her son cherished his time at Davenport and made many connections by embracing campus life, participating in on-campus events and forming strong friendships with his roommates.

“Michael’s time at Davenport has not only been academically enriching but also personally meaningful,” she said. “Recently, he reflected on how much he will miss being on campus and purchased DU gear as a reminder of the place that played a significant role in helping him achieve his goal of getting accepted to the AFA.”

Evenhouse leaves for Colorado Springs, CO, next week to start basic training. Once completed, he will begin four years of schooling, where he hopes to study systems engineering or strategic studies. With a bachelor’s degree in hand, Evenhouse will have an eight-year service commitment to fulfill with the USAF. He is excited about the opportunities the Air Force will provide and hopes to see the world while serving his country as a pilot, engineer or intelligence officer.

“I want to serve my country and its people to the fullest of my ability, and training at the Air Force Academy is the best way to do that,” Evenhouse said. “The opportunities and challenges I will face can’t be found anywhere else.”