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  4. Laredo Sector Border Patrol’s Youth of the Year is recognized at the Texas Capitol

Laredo Sector Border Patrol’s Youth of the Year is recognized at the Texas Capitol

Release Date
Thu, 08/10/2017

LAREDO, TEXAS – Andrea Miranda Paez, a graduate of United South High School, was selected as the Laredo Sector Border Patrol Youth of the Year for 2017. Laredo Sector Border Patrol made the announcement of her selection during the 2017 International Bank of Commerce (IBC) Youth Night celebration earlier this year.

Youth of the Year
Assistant Chief Gabriel Acosta,
Rep. Richard Raymond, Honoree
Andrea Miranda Paez, and Border
Patrol agent Mike Lopez

On August 8, 2017, the Laredo Sector Border Patrol and the United Independent School District participated in an event at the State Capitol of Texas in Austin where the 2017 Youth of the Year winner, Andrea Miranda Paez, was honored by Texas State Representative Richard Raymond from District 42 - Laredo. Participating in the event were Border Patrol agents from the Laredo Sector, the family of Andrea Miranda Paez, Representative Richard Raymond and a representative from the office of Texas State Senator Judith Zaffirini. The event included a meet and greet with Rep. Richard Raymond and a special ceremony where Andrea was presented with a plaque displaying H.R. No. 2623, a Resolution passed by the Texas House of Representatives in her honor. Andrea was also recognized in front of the Texas House of Representatives during their session.

United South High School faculty member Ms. Griselda Dozal nominated Andrea for the prestigious award. “Andrea is a dedicated and extremely intelligent young lady who never gives up and sets her standards immensely high. At United South High School, Andrea has proved her worth as she has excelled tremendously both personally and in her academics. Andrea held many leadership positions where she served as a true inspiration to many in her community.” In addition, she held the top number 1 spot of her class out of 763 students. Andrea has found herself having to overcome some large obstacles in her life and has managed to stay on top of her academics and juggle a vast variety of organizations.

Andrea is passionate for succeeding in all academic and professional settings. She plans to continue her education in Biomedical Science and continue into graduate school upon graduation. Andrea is a true role model at United South High School, her heart and soul have encouraged and inspired many,”said Dozal.

“I want to thank Representative Raymond and his staff for hosting our Youth of the Year at the Texas State Capitol this year. It was an amazing experience for an amazing student and her family. We are also grateful for the continued support Senator Zaffirrini has provided this remarkable program since its inception, 29 years ago. We congratulate Andrea on her achievements and wish her continued success,” said Assistant Chief Gabriel Acosta.

The Youth of the Year ceremony at the Texas Capital culminates the Youth of the Month program that recognizes ten 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.

The Youth of the Month Program was established by Border Patrol as an effort to recognize local youth for their outstanding achievements. This year will mark the 30- year anniversary of the Youth of the Month Program by the Laredo Sector Border Patrol.

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021