Jan Gong, pictured here with Garden City Public Schools mathematics curriculum coordinator Mr. Stuart Dods and high school principal Ms. Nanine Cuttitta, was named a national finalist in the 2009 United States of America Mathematics Olympiad (USAMO) competition. Ten thousand students participated in the previous two qualifying exams, with 160 ninth and tenth grade students advancing to the next level. "This is the first time in 30 years Garden City has had a finalist in this competition," commented Mr. Dods.

The USAMO provides a means of identifying and encouraging the most creative secondary mathematics students in the country. It serves to indicate the talent of those who may become leaders in the mathematical sciences of the next generation. The USAMO is part of a worldwide system of national mathematics competitions, a movement in which both educators and research mathematicians are engaged in recognizing and celebrating the imagination and resourcefulness of our youth.

Interested in science and math, Jan hopes to pursue a career in the medical field. After recently completing the nine-hour, six-question national-level mathematics test, she is now awaiting word of her placing.

Congratulations, Jan, on your achievement in this year's USAMO competition!