Portsmouth High Student Lands High-Tech Scholarship

PORTSMOUTH, RI — A Portsmouth high school student will receive a $2,000 scholarship from Cox Communications. Daniel J. Kent, a senior at Portsmouth High School, plans to pursue a degree in information technology from the New England Institute of Technology. Following graduation, he hopes to remain in Rhode Island to pursue a career in the computing field, with a possible emphasis on software engineering.

Daniel was among eight Rhode Island high school seniors recognized Tuesday at the Statehouse. The students won the scholarships for academic excellence, community involvement and desire to pursue a degree in communications, telecommunications, technology or engineering. Secretary of State Nellie M. Gorbea officiated as the honorary chairwoman and presented each student with the scholarship.

The other scholarship recipients:

· Bridget McLean, a senior at Tolman High School, plans to attend Worcester Polytechnic Institute to pursue a degree in computer programming.

· Madison Leon, a senior at Toll Gate High School, plans to pursue a degree in computer engineering.

· Naia Barruetabena, a senior at Middletown High School, plans to attend the University of New Hampshire to pursue a degree in bioengineering.

· Zeke S. Cohen, a senior at Classical High School, plans to attend Cornell University to pursue a degree in computer science.

· Derek Byrne, a senior at Bishop Hendricken High School, plans to attend Worcester Polytechnic Institute to pursue a degree in computer and electrical engineering.

· Jonathan Wahl, a senior at Ponaganset High School, plans to attend Assumption College to pursue a degree in economics.

· Kieran Maynard, a senior at Narragansett High School, plans to attend Stonehill College to pursue a degree in engineering.

Photo Caption: Jennifer Bramley, left, vice president of government and public affairs for Cox Communications; RI state Sen. James A. Seveney; Daniel J. Kent; Secy. of State Nellie Gorbea; State Rep. Dennis Canario.