Billerica, MA – Shawsheen Valley Technical High School proudly announces that senior Eliot Hong has made history as the first Shawsheen student to receive an appointment to the United States Naval Academy (USNA). A standout in the Electrical Program, Eliot exemplifies Shawsheen’s core values of accountability, integrity, and respect. As he prepares to graduate this June, he will carry these principles forward when he joins the brigade as a 4th Class Midshipmen (Plebe) on June 26, 2025.

Eliot’s exceptional academic and athletic performance set him apart as an ideal candidate for the USNA. He was recognized as a John and Abigail Adams Scholar for his outstanding academic achievements, excelling both in the classroom and on the MCAS exam. A tri-sport athlete, Eliot has competed in soccer, track and field, and most notably, swimming, earning numerous accolades. In swimming he is a two-time MVP, CAC All-Star, and Coaches’ Award recipient, and holds Shawsheen’s record in the Men’s 100-Yard Breaststroke and the Men’s 200-Yard Medley Relay.

Beyond sports and academics, Eliot is a dedicated leader in the school community, serving on the student cabinet and mentoring students in Shawsheen’s Diversity and English Language Learners program. His guidance counselor, Kelly McFadden, describes him as "a hardworking, diligent, and enthusiastic young man who constantly strives to be his best."

Eliots passion for military service was inspired by his family’s long tradition of service and a visit to the U.S. Naval Academy to see his older brother. “Witnessing the purpose-driven, service-centered individuals combined with my family’s long history of military service is what inspired me to commit myself to a life of service and duty of defending our nation and the values it is founded upon,” Eliot shared.

Gaining admission to the U.S. Naval Academy is an extremely competitive process, requiring candidates to meet rigorous academic, physical, and medical standards. Eliot successfully completed the Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA), met stringent standardized test score requirements, passed the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DoDMERB), and received a Congressional Nomination from U.S. Representative Lori Trahan of Massachusetts’ 3rd Congressional District.

Upon Induction on June 26, 2025, Eliot will officially begin 4 years of academic and military training at the highest caliber, whereupon graduation he will commit to a minimum of five years of service in the U.S. Navy.

Expressing his gratitude for this prestigious opportunity, Eliot stated, “I feel truly grateful and blessed for this opportunity to serve our country and to pave the way for other like-minded students to take up this privilege and duty of service.”

Eliot credits his older brother and Shawsheen teachers John Bagni and Michael Furey, for instilling in him a strong work ethic and enduring values. “Although the electrical trade is not what I desired in the end, they helped me understand the meaning of hard work and taught me key principles and values that will last a lifetime,” he said.

At the Naval Academy, Eliot plans to study Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, with aspirations of serving in elite military roles such as Navy SEALs, Marine Raiders, or Marine Infantry. Beyond his military career, he envisions building a family—and even getting a pet monkey.

Shawsheen is incredibly proud of Eliot for achieving this historic milestone, setting an example for future students. His appointment highlights the strength of Shawsheen’s academic, vocational, and athletic programs, demonstrating how students can excel in all areas and achieve success.

About Shawsheen Valley Regional Vocational Technical School District

Established in 1965, Shawsheen Valley Regional Vocational Technical School District (SVRVTSD) stands as a beacon of educational excellence, placing students at the center of its mission. Proudly serving the communities of Billerica, Bedford, Burlington, Tewksbury, and Wilmington, Shawsheen caters to the diverse needs of over 1,300 students in grades 9-12.

Dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in education, Shawsheen seamlessly integrates academics with a dynamic range of over 20 vocational-technical career pathways. Located in Billerica, Massachusetts, Shawsheen's expansive 100-acre campus hosts an exceptional school building adorned with high-end and industry relevant equipment, athletic fields, twenty-four varsity sports, and a plethora of extra-curricular clubs and activities.

With a passionate faculty and staff, Shawsheen remains committed to its mission: "to provide a positive learning experience in a safe educational environment that encourages all students to reach their full potential, emphasizes the value of a strong work ethic, and prepares them for adult life in a competitive world."

Beyond its traditional academic offerings, Shawsheen Valley Technical School extends its educational reach through Adult Education, Afterschool Enrichment Programs, Community-focused Events, and Summer Programs. The district continually strives to expand its rich and diverse programming, embracing the belief that education is a lifelong, continuous process with numerous paths leading to a successful and fulfilling life.