RAIMONDO HONORS 2 EAST PROVIDENCE STUDENTS

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – General Treasurer Gina M. Raimondo recently presented the Treasury Young Leader Award to 41 students, 2 of which were from East Providence. The award recognizes high school juniors who have demonstrated an interest in entrepreneurship and outstanding achievement in math, economics, and business-related classes.

“The Young Leader Award gives outstanding students the recognition they deserve for excelling at their studies and serving their communities,” said Raimondo. “They are great examples to us all by showcasing the traits Rhode Islanders need for a successful future.”

Ximedica, a leading medical product development and healthcare company worldwide, was selected as the host site for this award ceremony due to the company’s commitment to innovation. Ximedica also hosted the event in 2013. Ximedica Senior Vice President and Head of Technology and Operations, Michael Pereira, spoke about the importance of innovation and advancing technology.

“To have innovation, it is important to encourage young people to consider the possibilities and opportunities that are right here in their backyard,” said Pereira. “We are proud to host these young leaders, their teachers, guidance counselors and families.”

About the students

• Leslie Vongphakdy, a junior at East Providence Career and Technical Center, is enrolled in a pre-engineering program, President of DECA, and has mentored at Brown University’s summer engineering camp.

• Sam Lawrence, a junior at East Providence High School, is in the National Honor Society, Vice President of DECA, and is enrolled in college credit courses.