University of Arkansas Air Force ROTC Cadet Vashti Smith received the highly competitive United States Automobile Association Scholarship (USAA) award for her demonstrative achievements in leadership, organizational ability, teamwork, and academics.

"Cadet Smith is a key member of our Cadet Wing and her selection for this award comes as no surprise," said Lt. Col. Brian W. Capps, detachment commander. "I look forward to seeing her achieve new heights as she transitions to the active duty Air Force."

"Vashti is always willing to go the extra mile and assume leadership when the cadet corps and leadership cadre need her," said Ms. Estes, detachment office manager.

To be eligible for the USAA scholarship award, a candidate is boarded against other highly qualified cadets across 36 Air Force ROTC programs within the Southwest region; must rank in the upper 10% of their class, in the upper 25% of his or her graduating class; and have a balance of academic achievement, leadership, and teamwork in complex academic studies versus simply a high grade point average. The award consists of an engraved brass mantle clock and $1,500.