Secretary of State Mollis Honors Four East Providence Students for Public Service

PROVIDENCE, RI -- Secretary of State A. Ralph Mollis honored four East Providence residents with his office’s 2012 Civic Leadership Awards, which are given annually to members of the senior class who make outstanding contributions to their school and their community.

“This award recognizes students who show an understanding of the importance public service has in a democratic society. They take the principles of civics and put them into action at home and at school,” said Mollis.

This year’s award winners from East Providence include Natalie Beauparlant and Austin Faria of East Providence High School and Amanda Horton and Samuel Hawkins of East Providence High School Career & Technical Center.

Beauparlant was Class President and a member of the golf team, student council, National Honor Society, Athletic Board and Golf team. In addition, she participated in a RI Autism Project and volunteered as a peer tutor.

Faria's activities included student government, Boy Scouts, Townie Volunteer Group, CYO, Marching Band, Volleyball, Cross-Country, International Club and Photography Club.

Horton was a member of the National Honor Society and Townie Volunteer Group, on the indoor track & field and , JV and varsity Softball teams and was a college application process mentor.

Hawkins was a member of the R.I. Honor Society, a Drum Major with the Marching Band, was in Concert Band, and is a volunteer church musician at the Zion Gospel Temple.

As hundreds of their family and friends looked on, nearly 100 students received awards at a State House ceremony.

Mollis asked high schools around the state to nominate one female and one male member of the Class of 2012 based on their record of public service, leadership ability and academic achievement.

Nearly 70 high schools ranging from Barrington High to Woonsocket High nominated seniors for the honor. This is the sixth consecutive year Mollis has presented the awards.

“My goal is to encourage young people to get involved. Their enthusiasm and willingness to participate in the civic life of their school and community are vital to the strength of our democracy. I hope their example inspires next year’s senior class," said Mollis.

Secretary of State Mollis is committed to making it easier to vote, helping businesses grow and making government more open and accessible. For more information on the programs and services offered by the Secretary of State, visit sos.ri.gov.