Thao Nguyen is the 2008 Medallion Scholarship Award recipient. Thao arrived from Vietnam in September 2004. She is a student at the Excel High School at South Boston. Thoa had the highest grade point average during freshman, sophomore and junior years. She has received numerous honor awards and is recognized by her school as a compassionate, humble and caring leader. Her life’s story is layered with diversity issues, challenges and success. Her work ethic is noteworthy. Thao’s guidance counselor Mrs. Zenga stated that “this young woman has been able to accomplish more in her time at Excel than any other student I have met in my career.”

Some of Thao’s intelligence and leadership abilities are manifested by her promotion as the first female company commander at her school’s ROTC program. In just three years she learned to speak English fluently.

Thao worked at the Van Lang Vietnamese School teaching children and adults the Vietnamese language. At the Excel High School, she has organized a support group for the purpose of assisting foreign students in adapting to American culture and education. Currently she works at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, Public and Community Affairs Department and volunteers at the Marian Manor Nursing Home.

The NEHRA Diversity Scholarship Committee proudly recognizes Thao Nguyen as the recipient of the 2008 Medallion Scholarship Award.