PROVIDENCE, RI -- Secretary of State A. Ralph Mollis honored high school students from all over Rhode Island with his 2013 Civic Leadership Awards, which are given annually to members of the senior class who make outstanding contributions to their school and their community.
Students were honored for work ranging from tutoring recent immigrants to volunteering with organizations including the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and Ronald McDonald House. Others served as president of their student governments.
"This award recognizes students who show an understanding of the importance public service has in a democratic society," said Mollis. "These students take the principles of civics and put them into action at home and at school."
SEE PHOTOS, VIDEO AND THE COMPLETE LIST OF AWARD RECIPIENTS
As hundreds of family and friends looked on, Mollis honored nearly 100 students with awards during a ceremony on the main plaza of the State House grounds.
Nick, Ron and Pete Cardi of Cardi's Furniture gave the keynote address. Well known for their support for charitable causes, the Cardis encouraged the award winners to continue their commitment to civic leadership after graduation.
Mollis asked high schools around the state to nominate members of the Class of 2013 who best met the ideals of the award: 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 seventh 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, making it easier to do business in Rhode Island 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.
MEDIA CONTACT: Chris Barnett at 222-4293
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