NC student leaders presented with Congressional Awards at Charlotte Motor Speedway
U.S. Representatives Alma Adams (NC-12) and Richard Hudson (NC-08) co-hosted the 2019 North Carolina Congressional Award Ceremony.
More than 60 youth from across the state were presented with The Congressional Award, Congress’ highest honor for youth, Monday at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord.
Each recipient challenged themselves personally and engaged with their communities by setting goals in four program areas – voluntary public service, personal development, physical fitness and expedition/exploration.
According to a press release, “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.”
The program recognizes initiative, service and achievement in people between the ages of 13 to 23.
Aric Almirola, NASCAR driver of the No. 10 Smithfield Ford Fusion for Stewart-Haas Racing, was the keynote speaker.
Collectively, the students contributed a more than 14,500 hours of volunteer service to many different communities.
Rep. Adams and Rep. Hudson presented the awards on behalf of the United States Congress and lauded the recipients for taking initiative and considering others in their decision-making.
“As a member of The Congressional Award’s Board of Directors, I am proud to celebrate our state’s youth and their incredible achievements,” Hudson said. “I was honored to help recognize and congratulate these young men and women for their success and service to our community. They are the leaders of tomorrow."
“It is my honor and privilege to present The Congressional Award to the promising young North Carolinians who earned this recognition in 2019,” said Adams. “Each of these young leaders’ dedication to personal development and public service is positively impacting communities across North Carolina. It because of committed young people like this year’s award recipients that I know the future of our democracy is bright.”
The event was made possible by the title sponsorship from Smithfield Foods, Inc., a global consumer packaged goods and protein company that employs more than 10,000 individuals throughout North Carolina.
“Smithfield Foods’ ongoing support of The Congressional Award reflects our commitment to the same values that the Award upholds,” said Mike Skahill, Vice President of Government Affairs at Smithfield Foods and Congressional Award Foundation board member. “Each of the Congressional Award recipients dedicates themselves in service to their local communities, a parallel to the importance we place on supporting our neighbors in the communities we call home. We are proud to support all of these efforts that help build a stronger tomorrow for everyone.”