West Orange Teen Earns Spot At West Point Military Academy

WEST ORANGE, NJ — A West Orange student has earned his way into West Point Military Academy.

West Orange Public School District officials recently announced that Royson Folas, a senior at the high school, accepted an appointment to the prestigious military academy.

Folas said he got a call from the office of Rep. Mikie Sherrill in April, as he was warming up for a tennis match. Needless to say, he was ecstatic – especially after the nail-biting admissions process.

“I felt a great sense of pride, accomplishment, and most of all relief because West Point was the only school I applied to,” Folas said. “Luckily, I was able to capture this moment on camera because a photographer had come in to take pictures of the seniors for the yearbook.”

“I have been part of the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC) all four years of high school, and it was, without a doubt, my main reason for going to West Point,” Folas stated.

“I think AFJROTC is one of, if not the, most significant programs that our school has to offer,” the teen added. “Whether it's wearing your uniform properly, doing physical training or community service, every single aspect of the program teaches young students invaluable lessons such as leadership, teamwork, and a sense of responsibility.”

Folas said the program is unique because it “goes beyond a book” and can be applied to real life.

“Any student with a positive mindset can reap the benefits,” Folas said. “If not for the lessons and opportunities granted to me in AFJROTC, my appointment to West Point wouldn't be possible. That's why I'm thankful to Major Marchesini and Chief Thurston, who are instrumental figures in the program's success year upon year.”

Royson serves as squadron commander in the AFROTC.

According to a news release from his alma mater:

“Folas attended Mt. Pleasant Elementary School, Edison Middle School, and Liberty Middle School before attending the high school. In addition to his involvement in the AFJROTC, he has played on the Boys Soccer Team and Boys Tennis Team for four years. He has been the goalkeeper on the soccer team for two years plays second singles on the tennis team. In 2020 he tried out for wrestling and was able to wrestle on the varsity level as well. Folas attended the Institute of Citizen Empowerment (ICE) during his sophomore year and is a member of the National Honor Society. He has served as managing editor for the Pioneer, the WOHS newspaper for the past two years.”

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