In addition to honoring youth recipients for personal goal-setting and community service, the event served as a launch for The Congressional Award’s partnership with the Fort Worth Independent School District. The two organizations unveiled their plan to equip North Texas teens with tangible skills and resources necessary to bridge the gap between classroom success and career preparation.
Read more about the FWISD partnership here.
“Over four decades, The Congressional Award program has displayed an unparalleled ability to empower young adults to prepare for life outside the classroom,” said Congressman Marc Veasey. “Regardless of ability, circumstance, or socioeconomic status, The Congressional Award recognizes the effort, initiative, and achievement students make.
The Foundation also recognized Texas A&M University assistant professor Dr. Hector Rivera with the Education Champion Award for his contributions to teaching, public service, and guiding students to achieve excellence.
Illustrating the significance of community and partnership, Congressional Award Board Member and motivational speaker Mateo Magdaleno reminded awardees that it takes a village to achieve personal success. “Although we stand as one person, we must never forget we are representing thousands of people – entire communities, families that have supported you, and educators who have served as your mentors.”
This year’s ceremony honored 89 recipients across the Lone Star State. Texas remains one of the most active in The Congressional Award’s portfolio with 3,304 awardees all-time, 80,100 service hours in 2018 (8% of national total), and 4,213 current participants (ranked 2nd in number of participants, only trailing California).
The ceremony program and list of Congressional Award recipients can be found here.
Free, high resolution photos are available to view and download here.
About
The Congressional Award is the United States Congress’ only charity and the highest honor bestowed upon a youth civilian through the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. Established by Congress as a public-private partnership in 1979 under Public Law 96-114, the program recognizes initiative, service, and achievement in youth ages 13 ½ – 23.
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