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                         June 14, 2002

USMA to hold annual MALO conference

By Spc. Nate Jastrzemski
Staff Writer

West Point is hosting its 32nd annual Military Academy Liaison Conference -- or MALO -- June 17 to 21.

Maj. James McNulty, executive officer of the Directorate of Admissions here, explained the purpose of the conference as a means of training the admissions field force in U.S. Military Academy policies and practices.

"West Point has roughly 250 Army reserve officers and 1000 civilian admissions participants that assist with the USMA admissions operations throughout the country," he said. "This conference ensures they understand not only admissions procedures, but also the academy’s leadership, military, academic, athletic and development programs."

McNulty explained that having the people involved with the admissions process attend this event helps ensure West Point’s continued success in getting the top applicants.

"Up to 100 of those admissions participants come to the academy each year to learn how to nurture candidates, help with processing, conduct interviews and attend college fairs," he said. "What they learn here is essential to the success of the USMA."

Athletic Admissions Officer, Capt. Bruce Ryba, said the conference incorporates a family atmosphere, and they focus on inviting admissions assistants who are new to the program or who have not participated in more than three years.

"The people who attend this event are very important to the West Point mission," he added, "Many times, they are the first contact between high school students and the academy.

"We want to make sure the candidates receive a realistic view of West Point so they can make an educated decision if offered admission."