USAFA Interfaith Council Garners Presidential Recognition

The US Air Force Academy has been recognized on the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll, which is at least partly related to its role in “developing interfaith programs.”

The Academy is one of 98 higher education institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and Corporation for National Community Service for its leadership in developing interfaith programs and working to solve community challenges.

The article notes

The Cadet Interfaith Council here [is] comprised of 18 cadets representing 10 distinctive faith groups…

The CIC combines community service and “interfaith cooperation.”

“The purpose of the challenge is to merge interfaith cooperation and community service,” said Chaplain (Capt.) Michael Carey, the council liaison. “It allows cadets to give back to the community and recognize the importance of respect in our pluralistic, diverse Air Force.”

After criticisms about religious sensitivity in recent years, USAFA has made a point of emphasizing its interfaith cooperation.

Cadet 1st Class Kristi Tanaka, cadet in charge of the council, said the group’s mission is unique…

“The group consists of people of very different faiths and backgrounds but with similar values and goals. We’re diverse but sit at the same table and discuss issues that affect the entire cadet wing. It brings cohesiveness to the wing.”

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