FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Washington, D.C. – Last week, The Congressional Award Foundation concluded its annual three-day Gold Medal Summit, honoring 724 youth awardees from 47 states and territories and 232 Congressional districts across the nation, making this group the largest Gold Medal class to date. This year’s theme for the event was Freshly Minted Leaders, highlighting the medalists, their achievements, and their ability to make a meaningful impact in the world.
The Congressional Award Gold Medal is the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. Congress upon youth, recognizing the remarkable initiative, service, and achievement demonstrated by these exceptional medalists. Attendees of the Summit spoke with Members of Congress about their goal-setting journeys, fostering meaningful connections with their elected officials. Over 200 separate meetings with U.S. Senators and Representatives took place in offices on The Hill, creating a uniquely personal experience for the medalists and their loved ones.
Medalists also attended panel discussions in the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center Congressional Auditorium. The panels included leaders from a variety of corporate, non-profit, and government organizations. Among them, representatives from Congressional Award partners Ferring Pharmaceuticals, Intuit, and Bayer provided expert insights on STEM, entrepreneurship and financial literacy, and global sustainability, respectively. Panel speakers also included Members of Congress and subject-matter experts from various local and national organizations.
Medalists connected with their peers and industry leaders through several networking activities, both on The Hill and throughout the city. The Summit closed with medalists participating in a scavenger hunt on the National Mall, getting a group photo on the Washington Nationals field, and attending the Nationals baseball game that evening.
Paxton Baker, Chairman of the Board of The Congressional Award, had this to say: “The 2024 Gold Medal Summit was a remarkable tribute to the extraordinary accomplishments of our Congressional Award Gold Medalists from every corner of the nation. We’ve observed firsthand the dynamic impact of youth leadership and their consistent dedication to fostering positive change both in their communities and around the world. The Summit offered a stage for celebration, motivation, and connection, setting these young leaders on a path to even greater achievements.”
To see the full listing of Gold Medalists, view them in the Congressional Record or here on our website.
View official event photos here.
About the Congressional Award
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.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Bethie Woodall | Deputy National Director | woodall@congressionalaward.org