Kirsten Votaw, of Cameron, is among U.S. Sen. Kay Hagan's 2013 nominees to the U.S. Service Academies.

Votaw is one of the nine nominees for the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.

As some of the most selective institutions of higher education in the country, the U.S. Service Academies require applicants to receive a nomination from a member of Congress in addition to meeting eligibility and entrance requirements, a news release from Hagan's office said.

"Congratulations to this year's nominees, who are truly among the best of the best," Hagan said. "These young men and women have distinguished themselves in the classroom, on the athletic field and within their communities. I wish them the best of luck as they continue the application process, and I commend them for seeking a world-class education while serving our country."

Each year, Hagan hosts Academy Day for middle and high school students interested in applying to a U.S. Service Academy. The event provides an opportunity for students to meet with cadets and midshipmen from the service academies and learn more about the nomination process through Hagan's office.

Hagan, who serves on the Senate Armed Services Committee, comes from a military family.