billie with diploma

2019 Mercer graduate Billie Botes completed the mission she left Mercer with when she became a graduate of the United States Air Force Academy this May 2025. As a Mercer student, Billie would tell anyone who asked what she was going to do after she left Mercer that she was going to attend the Air Force Academy. Now, six years later, she has done it.

billie grad photo\

Billie's mom, dad and sister, Zoe, also a Mercer alum, attended the ceremony, which consisted of three events: a parade, the commissioning, and then the graduation. Billie's family got to participate in the commissioning by switching her epaulets.

billie and Zoe

Mercer is very proud of Billie and can't wait to see what's next for her!