February 28, 2013

Manchin and Rockefeller Applaud West Virginia High School Senior’s Accomplishments

Senators Joe Manchin and Jay Rockefeller praise Wheeling native on extraordinary achievement in scientific research

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Joe Manchin and Jay Rockefeller congratulated Vincent O’Leary of Wheeling for his outstanding achievement and leadership in scientific research. Vincent is among 40 high school seniors in the country selected to compete in the Intel Science Talent Search 2013, one of the most prestigious science competitions nationwide.

“I know I speak for all West Virginians in congratulating our native Wheeling student, Vincent O’Leary, on becoming a finalist in one of the most prestigious pre-college science competitions in the country,” Senator Joe Manchin said. “Vincent Jacob not only contributed his valuable research to the science community, but his drive, discipline and talent demonstrate true leadership skills. I wish Vincent only the best, and I am confident that this impressive achievement will surely lead to many other great accomplishments in the future.”

“West Virginia’s students have shown time and time again just how innovative they are. And that innovation, especially in science and related fields, is at the heart of West Virginia’s economic future,” said Rockefeller, Chairman of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. “Vincent is proof that West Virginia and its students have what it takes to compete on a national level. I know he will make his school, family, and our state proud.”

Young innovators chosen to participate in this competition represent the nation’s most promising high school seniors who have the potential to solve the problems of tomorrow. Throughout the past 72 years, Science Talent Search alumni have gone on to win seven Nobel Prizes, two Fields Medals, five Medals of Science, 11 MacArthur Foundation Fellowships and even an Academy Award.

The finalists will compete in Washington, D.C. from March 7-13 for $630,000 in awards. The top winner will receive $100,000 from the Intel Foundation.

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