WEST POINT - Approximately 1,150 cadet candidates, including more than 322 minorities, 15 international cadets and 35 combat veterans reported to the United States Military Academy on Monday, the annual Reception Day.

The incoming Class of 2016 was selected from a pool of more than 15,000 applicants. There are 190 women, who comprise 16 percent of the class.  Minority enrollment, roughly 27 percent, includes 105 African-Americans, 87 Asian-Americans; 115 Hispanic Americans and 15 Native Americans.

“I’ve never been more impressed than I am with caliber of student entering West Point with the Class of 2016,” said Col. Deborah McDonald, Director of Admissions. “Their overall performance in academics, leadership and athletics is exceptional and provides the foundation for successful completion of the challenging West Point experience.

The Class of 2016 includes cadets from every state in the nation and 15 international cadets entering the class under the sponsorship of their respective countries. The countries represented include Afghanistan (2), Bulgaria, Gabon, Guyana, Haiti, Kazakhstan (2), Malaysia, Mongolia, Philippines, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Thailand.  Upon graduation, these cadets will return to their respective countries as officers in their armed forces.