Written By: Shannon Healy and Lola Illies
On Thursday, January 8, Providence Academy welcomed United States Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to speak to Upper School students and many members of the Providence community.
Secretary Bessent began his visit with a small meet and greet with a select few Economics and Journalism students. In this private meeting, the Secretary shared his hope to spark the curiosity in the students, explaining how Washington DC is a faraway place that he wants to feel closer to the students and encouraged them to engage with DC.
Providence Academy Economics and Journalism students visit with Secretary Bessent in a private meeting before his presentation. PAW Photo Credit: Mr. Chris Mulcahey
“It was such an amazing opportunity and such a good learning experience. It definitely helped inspire me to want to learn more about DC,” said Alexa Sauer, ‘26, who was in attendance at the private meeting and had the opportunity to speak with the Secretary in a small group.
After the private visit, Secretary Bessent went to the Performing Arts Center and was welcomed with a standing ovation by Providence Upper Schoolers and over 250 community members.
“It was such an honor to be able to see the Secretary of the Treasury speak in person; not many people get that opportunity,” Providence Academy Alumna Maddie Mithun, ‘12, shared.
The panel interview of Secretary Bessent was led by Kate Reschenberg, Executive Director of the Economic Club of Minnesota. She was the driving force behind Secretary Bessent’s visit to Providence. After asking the Secretary some questions, the interview was opened up to questions from PA Economics students.
“It was cool to be able to ask Secretary Bessent a question, and I’m really glad I was given the opportunity to do so. There was a lot of anticipation for him coming all day, so nerves were really high among us, but when he got to Providence, it was cool to see how he’s just a regular guy with a high-status job,” said Ceci Carron, ‘26.
Economics Student Connor Niesen, ’26, asks his question of Secretary Bessent. PAW Photo Credit: Addie Brandt, ’27.
During the Q & A, Secretary Bessent stressed the importance of developing financial literacy at a young age. He also explained his role in government.
“Whatever occupation you want, financial literacy lets you stay in control of your life,” stated Secretary Bessent.
Secretary Bessent highlighted that 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States and that his plans are to continue the country’s development through positive influence.
“It’s the 250th anniversary of our country. I am honored and privileged to set the sails for the next 250 years for you guys to have a better life than your parents and keep this idea of the United States going,” explained Secretary Bessent.
Secretary Bessent’s visit required a team effort by all students and staff. Providence also invited parents and alumni to attend Secretary Bessent’s speech and had the highest attendance of any speaker Providence Academy has hosted.
“Everybody made it happen, including the students; we had students move cars because 250 additional people were coming, so everybody turned to make it happen for the highest ranking official we’ve ever had visit Providence,” stated headmaster Dr Flanders.
Overall, Secretary Bessent’s visit to Providence Academy was a memorable and meaningful experience for students, faculty, and the rest of the Providence community. Secretary Bessent’s talk left an impression, inspiring attendees to stay informed, and become active participants in shaping the future of the United States.
“My largest takeaway was knowledge is power, knowledge of the market, knowledge of current US events, and knowledge of foreign affairs. All of these factors lead to the economic status of The United States, and we all need to be paying better attention,” said Mithun.