Athens Academy was pleased to welcome Representative Mike Collins (GA-10) to campus for

service academy signing ceremony honoring Brinkley Williams on Monday, April 21, 2025.

Brinkley, who is the daughter of Annie B. and Philip Williams of Madison, has been appointed to

the United States Naval Academy. She will join her sister, ClaraJane Williams, Athens Academy Class of

2023, who is currently finishing her second year at the Naval Academy.

Upper School Director Susan Zalac reflected on Brinkley’s enthusiasm, energy, and commitment

throughout her time at Athens Academy. Brinkley has attended Athens Academy since the seventh

grade. She is a member of the National Honor Society and the Spanish Honor Society. She served as a

member of 17, the school’s ambassador program and is also an AP Scholar. Brinkley has been a member

of the cross country and track teams throughout her time in high school.

“Brinkley’s dedication and commitment, both in and out of the classroom, continue to impress

us,” said Head of School John Thorsen. “She sets a powerful example for her peers and younger

students, and her positive impact on our school community is very important. We’re excited to see all

that the future holds for Brinkley.”

According to a press release from Representative Collins’ office, “Congressman Collins is

privileged to nominate eligible students for consideration for appointment to the United States Military,

Naval, Air Force, and Merchant Marine academies. An academy appointment entitles a student to the

equivalent of a full undergraduate scholarship, including room and board, medical and dental care, and a

monthly pay allowance. Upon graduation from the academy, the student becomes a commissioned

officer in the United States Armed Forces.

“The U.S. Service Academies are prestigious academic institutions, recognized as the world’s

finest leadership development laboratories, and are laser focused on preparing bright and talented

young Americans to become commissioned officers and future leaders in the United States Armed and

Maritime Forces.

“Securing nominations from members of Congress and other sources are the required first steps

in any candidate’s application process. However, the academies ultimately decide who receives

appointments of admission to their respective institutions. Selection to U.S. Service Academies is among

the most competitive and rigorous in the country.”

Athens Academy is an independent, co-educational school for students in K3 through 12th

grade, located on a beautiful 152-acre campus in Northeast Georgia. Now in its 57th year, Athens

Academy pursues its mission of “excellence with honor” through academics, athletics, fine arts,and service and leadership. Ranked the #1 private school in Athens, #6 private school in the

state of Georgia (out of 400+ schools), and #1 private school in North Georgia (Niche.com).

For more information, please contact Kelley Cuneo, communications director, at

[email protected] or 706-433-2410.