Rockville Centre resident and Xavier High School Senior Dillon Burke traveled to the White House during the summer to meet President Barack Obama as part of the New York’s Boys State program.

The program, organized by the American Legion, encourages participation in the political process. The 98 boys who participated in the program visited various parts of Washington D.C. on a week-long tour that culminated in meeting the president.

According to a press release from the high school, Burke was one of five people to hug the president at the meet and greet.

Burke was also presented with the Prudential Spirit of Community Certificate of Achievement at Xavier’s Fall Honors Assembly in October. The award celebrates the volunteerism and service of the school’s students.