Rebecca Whitney, a fourth-grader at Rose M. Gaffney Elementary School in Machias, has received the Nicholas Green Distinguished Student Award for the state of Maine. She was recognized during the Maine Educators for the Gifted and Talented annual fall conference on Oct. 13 at the Spectacular Event Center in Bangor. Whitney received a certificate and a $500 savings bond.

The Nicholas Green Distinguished Student Award was established by Maggie and Reg Green in honor of their 7-year-old son Nicholas, who was killed in a drive-by shooting. Students are nominated through letters of recommendation and samples of their accomplishments. The nominations are reviewed by the State Board of Gifted Education and approved by the national association. Only one person per state can receive this award.

Recipients must demonstrate excellence in one of the following areas: leadership, visual or performing arts, or academic achievement.