Secretary of State Nellie M. Gorbea recently honored Genesis Aldona and Alfred Lizarda from Cranston High School East with the 2019 Rhode Island Civic Leadership Award.

The award is given annually to recognize high school students who have made outstanding contributions to their schools and communities over the past year.

“It’s an honor to meet with young Rhode Islanders who are determined to have a positive impact on the world around them,” Gorbea said. “These students represent a bright future for our state. I hope each will remain at the forefront as civic leaders, connecting with others to strengthen our communities.”

“We were extremely proud to have Genesis and Alfred represent our school and Bolt’s Pride as Civic Leadership Award recipients,” said Joseph Potemri, Cranston East’s assistant principal for academic affairs. “They are both outstanding examples of the type of talented scholars, school leaders and community servants that we strive to develop in Cranston.”

Each year, high schools across Rhode Island are invited to nominate two students in the junior class who best meet the ideals of the Civic Leadership Award. These ideals include public service, leadership ability and academic achievement.

This year, 153 students from 77 schools were honored for their civic efforts, which ranged from mentoring young children to volunteering to help feed the homeless and activity in student government. The students were honored at a State House ceremony and received special citations from Gorbea in front of family members and friends.

The Civic Leadership Awards are part of Gorbea’s mission to engage and empower Rhode Islanders by connecting them with their government and encouraging civic pride.