Smithfield High School Class of 2025 graduate Madelyn Berry has earned an appointment to the prestigious United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, joining a select group of students from across the nation chosen for their academic excellence, physical aptitude, and demonstrated leadership.
Madelyn’s path to the Naval Academy began with a love for triathlon racing. While exploring colleges with competitive athletic programs, she discovered that the Naval Academy had recently launched a triathlon team. After attending overnight camps and immersing herself in the Academy’s unique blend of academic rigor and athletic intensity, she knew it was the right fit.
“I really fell in love with the mix of athletic and academic culture at the academy that is embraced by everyone,” said Madelyn.
Her commitment to excellence has been evident throughout her high school career. She was a standout athlete on Smithfield’s Cross Country, Swimming, and Indoor/Outdoor Track and Field teams, and actively participated in club sports such as soccer and triathlon. Academically, she challenged herself with a rigorous schedule, including Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment courses, even adding DE Chemistry her senior year in preparation for the Academy’s demanding curriculum.
Madelyn credits her family, especially her parents, for unwavering support throughout the application process and her many athletic commitments. She also recalls being inspired by the Veterans Day events she attended as a student at Hardy and Westside Elementary Schools.
“I received the actual call notifying me of my acceptance the day after Christmas, much earlier than I expected. I can’t describe how excited and relieved I was that I made it in,” Madelyn shared.
At the Naval Academy, she plans to major in Mechanical Engineering, with potential interest in the Nuclear Engineering field. While she is still exploring career paths, she is currently leaning toward Submarine service—an area recently opened to women, which adds a layer of excitement to her aspirations.
“I'm excited to meet new people who share the same interests as me, plus see how much I can improve both academically and athletically to reach my full potential,” she said.
Madelyn’s appointment is a rare and honorable achievement for Isle of Wight County Schools and serves as an inspiring example for other students who may consider service academies as a pathway to higher education and military leadership.
“She represents the very best of Smithfield High School and Isle of Wight County,” said [Principal’s Name], principal of Smithfield High School. “We are so proud of all she’s accomplished and confident she will continue to make an impact in all that she does.”
Photo Credit: Elly Condit