Zac was raised in Sandy Lake, Pennsylvania, where his intellect and sense of service emerged early. Gifted in math, he began taking college-level computer science courses at Grove City College while still in eighth grade. He graduated from Lakeview High School in 1998 after a well- rounded and active student life—competing in football, basketball, and track; playing trombone in the school band; and participating in numerous church and community activities.
At the United States Military Academy at West Point, Zac stood out as a scholar, athlete, and leader. Balancing a double major with varsity athletics and extensive volunteer work, he still found time to tutor fellow cadets in math and economics, often holding informal study sessions in his room. He captained the Army Rugby Team, earned the 2002 Rugby Scholar-Athlete Award, and volunteered with Big Brothers Big Sisters and Special Olympics. In the summer of 2000, he graduated from Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia, and served as a platoon leader for an Air Defense Artillery unit in Wackernheim, Germany. The following summer, he completed an internship in Baku, Azerbaijan, working with refugee children and advising local citizens on human rights issues. On June 1, 2002, he graduated 11th in a class of 957 with a degree in math and computer science. He was named West Point’s top graduate in math, computer science, and the basic sciences. Commissioned as a second lieutenant, he received his diploma from President George W. Bush. He was both a Truman and Rhodes Scholar.
Tragically, Zac died of hyperthermia during a land navigation training exercise at Fort Benning, Georgia, on July 1, 2002—just one month after graduating. Though his life was short, his legacy endures—defined by brilliance, humility, and service. He embraced each opportunity with purpose and grace, mentoring others and leading by quiet example. Remembered as much for his compassion and character as for his accomplishments, Zac continues to inspire all who strive to live with integrity and meaning.
