LAREDO, TEXAS – Andrea Miranda Paez, a senior at United South High School, was selected as the Laredo Sector Border Patrol Youth of the Year for 2017. Laredo Sector Border Patrol Acting Chief Patrol Agent Robert Boatright made the announcement of the selection by program partners during the 2017 International Bank of Commerce (IBC) Youth Night celebration.
The Youth of the Year ceremony culminates the Youth of the Month program that recognizes eleven students each month from all Laredo area high schools. Students are selected for the honor based on academic achievement, community involvement and demonstration of their fortitude to succeed.
“What a better reason to come together than for the children. Over the course of their educational career, we have watched them mature into young men and women. I applaud them on their success and wish them the best in their future endeavors. We truly have bright leaders in our future,” said Acting Chief Patrol Agent Robert Boatright.
Laredo Sector Leadership Staff: Juan
C. Barberena, Joe Martinez, Jaime
Fierro, Joel Martinez, Youth of the
Year Andrea Miranda Paez, Robert
Boatright, Jason Owens, Gabe Acosta.
Border Patrol Agent Cynthia Canales.
The Youth of the Year was established by Border Patrol as an effort to recognize the youth for their outstanding achievements. Program partners, such as IBC, play an integral role in the Border Patrol Youth of the Month program, as they reflect the commitment and dedication in supporting education by highlighting Laredo’s young leaders.
Community partner IBC hosted the event at the IBC Annex, and Andrea Miranda Paez was honored with a beautiful sash that she will wear on her graduation day. partners provided Andrea with various awards for her selection as Youth of the Year. Glen Ruiz from Royal Laser Wash, Pediatrician Dr. Sara Campos, and Blue Knights Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club each donated a $1,000 scholarship, and Meals 4 lbs. and AHEC gave a $500 scholarship. Laredo Energy Arena presented the student with tickets an upcoming concert, and Mattress Firm provided a $1,000 shopping spree. Awardmasterz donated a beautiful plaque that was presented at the ceremony.
U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar presented the student with a Congressional Certificate of Recognition. The honoree will have the opportunity to receive a tour of the Texas State Capitol, where she will be presented on the senate floor and a special reception will be held in her honor by State Senator Judith Zaffirini.
This year marks the 29th anniversary of participation by the Laredo Sector Border Patrol.