Military Service Award in Honor of Candace C.W. Antwine
What is the Military Service Award in Honor of Candace C.W. Antwine?
The Military Service Award in Honor of Candace C.W. Antwine, established in 2021, honors the dedication and service of Ms. Antwine, a Navy veteran and former member of the Anne Arundel County Board of Education. Throughout her life, Ms. Antwine was a passionate advocate for military families and children in need, tirelessly working to improve the lives of those around her. This award carries forward her legacy by supporting students who have committed to serving our country.
Why Should I Apply?
This one-of-a-kind award provides financial assistance to graduating AACPS students who have enlisted in the U.S. military, helping cover initial expenses such as basic training supplies and uniforms — costs that are often deducted from a service member's pay. By easing these financial burdens, the award helps students transition smoothly into military service, which may also include personal costs like moving and relocation.
In honoring Candace Antwine’s legacy, this award not only supports students in their commitment to serve but also recognizes their dedication to making a difference in our country.
Who was Candace C.W. Antwine?
A U.S. Navy veteran, Ms. Antwine was elected in November 2018 to a six-year term representing District 1 on the Board of Education of Anne Arundel County. She took her oath of office on December 3, 2018. Ms. Antwine was a committed voice for children in need and for military families throughout Anne Arundel County. She also concentrated her efforts on eradicating bullying and racial tension in schools and expanding specialized accommodations to assist students with disabilities. Ms. Antwine tirelessly advocated for students, veterans, and animals through various nonprofits, such as the Meade High School PTSA and the Maryland State Boys Choir, as well as faith-based organizations.
Ms. Antwine served our country in active duty, reserve, and civil servant capacities, including positions with the National Security Agency via the Naval Security Group, the Department of Defense, and the Department of Homeland Security. She held a bachelor’s degree in Broadcasting from the Mississippi University for Women and a master’s degree in Acquisition and Procurement from Webster University. She also completed graduate work in Communication, Leadership and Organizational Change at Hawaii Pacific University.
Apply for this Award
Please provide the following:
Proof of Enlistment in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard (may be sent after application is submitted but must be received by May 15 of application year).
CV/Resume (you may use your resume from Naviance) which outlines your achievements/accolades, sports, extra-curricular activities, community service, etc.
Character Reference - (fillable pdf) - Can be any trusted adult including teacher, counselor, coach, job supervisor, clergy, etc. who is not a relative. (Formulario en español)Completed Application - (fillable pdf) with the following open-ended essay question (no more than 300 words) - Why are you enlisting to serve our country in the military? (Formulario en español)
NOTE: Please name the files that you submit using the following file names:
YourName_application
YourName_resume
YourName_enlistment
This application is also available through Naviance.
Submitting Your Application
Deadline for Submittal
April 21, 2025 @ 11:59 p.m.
Submit all materials listed on the left by e-mail to:
Email AACPS Board Office with the subject: “Military Service Award in Honor of Candace C.W. Antwine” or by mail to:
Diane Howell
Attn: Military Service Award in Honor of Candace C.W. Antwine
Board of Education of Anne Arundel County
2644 Riva Rd
Annapolis, MD 21401
Finalist Interviews
Finalists will be interviewed by the MIlitary Service Award Review Panel. This interview may be conducted either virtually or in-person.
A Note to All Awardees
Awardees must report back to the Board the April after the award is given by attending the annual awards ceremony or by submitting a video message detailing the highlights of your first year of service in the military and how this award benefited you.