U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- U.S. Air Force Academy Cadet 1st Class Alexandra Skeen, Class of 2026, has been selected for the Holaday Scholarship, a fully-funded, two-year postgraduate program in the United Kingdom.
“Cadet Skeen’s selection as a Holaday Scholar is a testament to her exceptional character and the world-class mentorship provided by our faculty, staff, coaches, and command teams,” said U.S. Air Force Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind. “Her success shows what happens when a cadet’s immense potential is paired with hard work and our mission to forge warrior-leaders. She will be an outstanding ambassador for the Academy.”
Skeen is an aeronautical engineering major who will graduate and commission into the U.S. Air Force as a second lieutenant in May. The Reston, Va., native will continue her aeronautics studies at Oxford, pursuing a two-year Master of Science in Engineering with a focus on experimental aerodynamics for sustainable aviation. Once her time in the United Kingdom ends, Skeen will enter the Air Force’s undergraduate pilot training program.
“Cadet Skeen’s selection as a Holaday scholar is an incredible achievement and is a demonstration of her abilities as a warfighter-scholar, her commitment to service, and her exemplary character,” said Col. Steven C. M. Hasstedt, Academy Acting Dean of the Faculty. “It is a great honor to recognize her achievements with this scholarship and also the incredible leadership of the Academy faculty and staff who helped guide her during her journey here at the Air Force Academy.”
“It is an honor to be named this year's Holaday Scholar,” said Skeen. “The Holaday Scholarship will allow me to continue my Aeronautics education, improve my critical thinking, and teach me to seek answers to challenging problems. These skills will equip me to be a better pilot and leader in the Air Force.”
She is a member of the Martinson Honors Program. Skeen’s current research focus is applied aerodynamics, developing and testing helicopter sling load modifications to improve safety and efficiency of U.S. Army operations. She has interned with the Air Force Seek Eagle Office and Air Force Research Laboratory.
Outside of the classroom, Skeen plays on the Women’s Rugby Team and was the Cadet-in-Charge of the Cadet Outdoor Leadership Experience. Skeen has also served as a liaison to the Academy’s Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office and Integrated Resiliency Office, providing resources to survivors of sexual assault, sexual harassment, and domestic violence.
“The Academy taught me to lean on others for support and to be there for others whenever possible. Academics, athletics, and military operations are all team sports, and I would not have made it to where I am today without the support of others,” said Lexi. “I am incredibly grateful to the instructors, mentors, friends, and family who helped me get to this point.
“At Oxford and throughout my Air Force career, I hope to be that source of support for others and continue seeking help from those around me, creating an environment where people can grow both as individuals and as a team.”
“I have no doubt Skeen will excel during her future studies and as a leader in the Air Force,” said Hasstedt.
After graduating from the Academy in 1965, Bart Holaday spent two years as a Rhodes Scholar at Exeter College at Oxford University. He and his late wife, Lynn, created the Holaday Scholarship to provide a deserving Academy cadet with the same educational opportunity he benefited from as a young man. The scholarship funds two years of graduate study for a master’s degree in any field.
Official Photo: Cadet First Class Alexandra Skeen