North Carolina – December 14, 2020 – Congresswoman Alma Adams (NC-12), Congressman Dan Bishop (NC-09), Congressman Ted Budd (NC-13), Congresswoman Virginia Foxx (NC-05), and Congressional Award Board Member, Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-08), today recognized youth achievement in the Tar Heel State during the first-ever virtual awards ceremony held by the Congressional Award Foundation.
The 2020 Virtual North Carolina Statewide Ceremony honored 59 youth across the state for personal goal-setting and volunteerism in their communities. The shift to a virtual format allowed more Members of Congress to attend than ever before and provided them with the chance to personally congratulate their young constituents across the state. Each youth recipient set and achieved goals in four program areas – Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness, and Expedition/Exploration. This year’s group contributed 23,712 hours of service to their communities, an average of 402 hours per medalist.
“I wish we could all be together in-person to honor your accomplishments during this challenging time. However, I know our future is bright because of your efforts,” stated Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-08). “You are all the best of our country, and I’m thankful for your work to make your communities and our country better.” Following Congressman Hudson was his co-host for the event, Congresswoman Alma Adams (NC-12), who commended the students for their efforts amidst the pandemic. “The strength you have displayed in earning this award during this period of adversity is immense and admirable.” She continued with words of encouragement stating, “Don’t stop here. Take the lessons you’ve learned on your Congressional Award journey and apply them to building a better and brighter future.” The ceremony was made possible by title sponsor, Smithfield Foods. “Smithfield Foods’ sustained 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.” The 2020 Virtual North Carolina Statewide Ceremony honored 59 youth across the state for personal goal-setting and volunteerism in their communities. The shift to a virtual format allowed more Members of Congress to attend than ever before and provided them with the chance to personally congratulate their young constituents across the state. Each youth recipient set and achieved goals in four program areas – Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness, and Expedition/Exploration. This year’s group contributed 23,712 hours of service to their communities, an average of 402 hours per medalist. Members of Congress, Medalists, and guests gather via Zoom to participate in the ceremony. # # # The Congressional Award | Congress’ Award for Youth 379 Ford House Office Building • Washington, DC 20515 • P: (202) 226-0130 • F: (202) 226-0131 Mailing Address: Post Office Box 77440 • Washington, DC 20013 The Congressional Award aims to foster principles of good citizenship and equip the next generation of leaders with tools to succeed. The program offers a superlative experience to include on resumes and college applications and makes goal-setting and service to others a habit for the youth who earn an Award. In recent months, The Congressional Award has shifted its priority to offer virtual programming for its participants and encourages youth to work on their goals in safe ways. “While virtual programming has been a challenging adjustment, we are excited that we can use the increased accessibility of these virtual spaces to reach more students, more Members of Congress, and provide more opportunities for youth despite the obstacle of staying at home.” stated Erica Heyse, National Director of The Congressional Award Foundation.