Khatima Bulmer (sitting in chair) is joined by her parents, grandmother, and Governor Raimondo as she is named the Governor for a Day essay contest winner. Photo by Andrew Augustus, WPRO News.
Andrew Augustus, WPRO News
Governor Gina Raimondo named 11-year-old Khatima Bulmer as the first ever ‘Governor for a Day’ essay contest. The fifth grader from Thompson Middle School beat out nearly 600 other entrants to the contest.
“I was wondering between if I wanted to hold the phone and try and scream a little or just a silence of excitement,” said Khatima.
The announcement came in the Governor’s office as Bulmer sat in her chair and answered questions from reporters. She said social studies was one of her favorite subjects in class.
When the call first came to the Bulmer’s household, her father Eric did not believe it was Governor Raimondo calling. But after the shock set in, he says excitement filled the household.
“I’m thrilled that Khatima will be our Governor for a Day,” said Governor Raimondo.
While sitting in the governor’s chair, Khatima read her winning essay which included ideas on giving animals on the streets “loving homes” where they can become “part of a family.
Khatima got a tour of the office and will return at a later date for her full “term” as Governor for a day.
