Tristan Fong, of Hope, is a 2015 winner of the Rensselaer Medal, distinguishing himself for mathematics and science. Fong is a student at Camden Hills Regional High School in Rockport. 

"The Rensselaer Medal is a wonderful way to pay tribute to the high school students who have achieved excellence in math and science," said Karen Long, director of undergraduate admissions, in a news release. "As we do so, we are aware that these early achievements, as impressive as they are, mark only one milestone on their future journeys of commitment to hard work, drive, focus and collaborations. The Rensselaer Medal winners represent the next generation of leaders, scientists, innovators, artists, scholars, game designers, architects, humanitarians and entrepreneurs."

The Rensselaer Medal was first presented in 1916 with two purposes: To recognize the superlative academic achievement of young men and women, and to motivate students toward careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines.

The medal, the oldest prize of its kind in the U.S., is awarded at more than 4,000 high schools throughout North America, Latin America, Europe and Asia. There are 176 medalists currently enrolled in the freshmen class at Rennselaer.

Each participating high school is allowed to select one member of the junior class to be honored with the Rensselaer Medal Award.