2026 Medalist

McCauley LaHiff

What have you gained by participating in The Congressional Award? From my experiences working to accomplish this award, I have discovered my strengths and weaknesses, as well as how I may overcome these weaknesses. Additionally, I have bettered myself in all...

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Elaina Veit

What have you gained by participating in The Congressional Award? The Congressional Award taught me that consistent effort leads to meaningful change. I’ve gained the confidence to work with anyone, and the ability to work through any obstacle. It moved me beyond just...

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Rose Losalu

What have you gained by participating in The Congressional Award? I have gained a more organized mindset because of my Personal Development goals; become better and more confident in volleyball and softball because of my Physical Fitness goals; and have given more to...

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Tavia Zimmerman

What have you gained by participating in The Congressional Award? I gained independence and leadership skills. Helping girls who enjoy running like me has taught me teamwork and leadership; improving my mile time has strengthened my determination; earning my driver's...

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Emily Mai

What have you gained by participating in The Congressional Award? I learned how to set attainable and measurable goals, manage a busy schedule, and take steps to reach my goals. I have gained a sense of planning and appreciation for the way adults manage schedules and...

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Slade Taylor

What have you gained by participating in The Congressional Award? The Congressional Award program is an opportunity to experience new practices and ideas, and to gain new ways of thinking and doing. Between all 4 categories,The Congressional Award program has taught...

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Lauren O’Donnell

What have you gained by participating in The Congressional Award? I have definitely gained a sense of responsibility and accountability. When you need to do something, you get on it; you can't just "meh" your way through life. I also got involved more in the...

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Jillian Trimble

What have you gained by participating in The Congressional Award? I have gained a better appreciation of how to incorporate volunteering into my life, despite having a busy schedule. I hope to continue making it part of my life because I really enjoy being a part of...

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Tyler Trimble

What have you gained by participating in The Congressional Award? I have gained valuable skills in public speaking, adaptability, and food preparation, while also increasing my knowledge of my community. I especially enjoyed opportunities to work with children,...

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Eden Olsen

What have you gained by participating in The Congressional Award? I gained an understanding of how hard and stressful planning a trip could be, and I learned how to do things like make reservations and book activities. I also gained more experience in volleyball....

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Ellery Pannell

What have you gained by participating in The Congressional Award? I have improved as a person overall. Through my commitment to public service, I have developed a deeper connection to my local community and a clearer understanding of how I can affect positive change....

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David Patridge

What have you gained by participating in The Congressional Award? The program challenged me to push my limits and, in some areas, my comfort zone. Working for the city grounds crew and volunteering, particularly with youth sports, pushed me into new experiences where...

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