Air Force Lacrosse Star Mark Tang to Intern for Vice President JD Vance Following Graduation
Photo by Lance Wendt
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Few student-athletes can match the résumé that Mark Tang has built during his time at the U.S. Air Force Academy.
A four-time All-American in men’s lacrosse, Tang has distinguished himself not only on the field but also in the classroom, earning national recognition as one of the Academy’s top scholar-athletes. His latest achievement adds another chapter to an already remarkable career: Tang will spend this summer interning for Vice President JD Vance following his graduation from Air Force.
The opportunity comes after years of excellence in athletics, academics, and leadership, making Tang one of the most accomplished cadets in recent Academy history.
A Record-Setting Career on the Field
Tang leaves Air Force as one of the most productive players in program history. Over the course of his collegiate lacrosse career, he accumulated:
137 goals
72 assists
209 total points
His consistent performance earned him four All-American selections, cementing his place among the elite players in college lacrosse. Tang’s impact helped elevate the Air Force program while showcasing the discipline and competitiveness that have defined his career.
Recognition at Graduation
Tang’s achievements received national attention during Air Force Academy graduation ceremonies, where he was highlighted by Vice President JD Vance.
The recognition reflected Tang’s standing as a model “warrior-scholar” — a cadet who excelled in both military and academic pursuits while competing at the highest level of collegiate athletics.
Air Force Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind praised Tang’s accomplishments, describing him as an example of a cadet who forged his own path to excellence through the Academy’s rigorous and nationally recognized academic program.
Academic Excellence Beyond the Academy
While Tang’s athletic accomplishments are impressive on their own, his academic achievements may be even more notable.
Tang was selected as a Marshall Scholar, one of the most prestigious international scholarship programs available to American students. The scholarship will allow him to continue his education in the United Kingdom beginning this fall.
As part of the program, Tang is set to pursue two master’s degrees, studying at both King’s College London and the London School of Economics.
The opportunity places him among a select group of scholars chosen each year for their academic achievement, leadership potential, and commitment to public service.
Summer in Washington Before Graduate Studies
Before beginning graduate studies overseas, Tang will spend the summer in Washington, D.C., interning in the office of Vice President JD Vance.
The internship provides another unique leadership and public service opportunity for the Air Force graduate as he prepares for the next phase of his academic and professional journey.
A Model Scholar
Mark Tang’s path from standout lacrosse player to Marshall Scholar and Vice Presidential intern reflects the Air Force Academy’s mission of developing leaders of character for military and public service.
With a decorated athletic career behind him and graduate studies at two world-renowned institutions ahead, Tang’s future appears as promising as his accomplishments to date.
For Air Force lacrosse fans, fellow cadets, and aspiring student-athletes, Tang’s story serves as a reminder that excellence in competition can go hand-in-hand with achievement in the classroom and leadership beyond it.