Return to Pointer View home page July 1,  2005

Academy looking for a few good liaisons

By Jennifer Dowing
Public Affairs Intern

Have you ever thought about helping West Point recruit cadets? This may be your chance.

The admissions office is looking for a few good Military Academy Liaison Officers, also known as MALOs. These officers help future cadets get through the admissions process. They also serve as mentors to them when they arrive here.

“This is an opportunity to develop relationships,” said Lt. Col. Dean Chang, who is the current MALO officer for New Jersey. “If someone wants to give back to West Point, this is a good way to do it.”

According to Chang, only reserve officers hold the position of a MALO; however, anyone can volunteer to help.

Maj. Shelly Jackson, a media officer for the admissions office, said there are 231 MALOs and 1,436 volunteers.

Who can volunteer? Anyone who wants to make a difference, Chang said.

“Nurturing and steering these qualified candidates is a wonderful thing,” he explained.

MALOs are broken down by congressional districts and have to undergo some training, including completing an online tutorial, shadowing a current liaison officer for roughly a year and attending the yearly MALO conference at West Point, Jackson said.

“Liaison candidates also have the opportunity to learn more about the admissions procedures, sit in on cadet classes and meet with the leadership,” he added.

However, Chang said, the most rewarding parts are the relationships you develop and the benefits you give the academy.

“If you’re still undecided about whether you want to help, think of this as your way to help us beat Navy,” Jackson said with a smile.