Dunwoody High School student Annie Peng is the only recipient of a Congressional Award in 2024 in Georgia’s 4th Congressional District.
Congressman Hank Johnson—representative for the congressional district—presented Peng with the Congressional Award bronze and silver medals at the North DeKalb school in January. Peng is a senior at Dunwoody High, and a news release states that she earned the recognition by achieving personal goals focused on volunteerism, character development, and fitness.
“I believe the Congressional Award is particularly important because it encourages commitment to public service in our young people,” said Johnson. “Generation Z has spent a better part of their adolescent and young adult years engaging politically to ensure that all people have a right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. I stand with our young people as they work to make this country more open and inclusive to everyone. I encourage all young leaders to participate in this opportunity by visiting CongressionalAward.org.”
Peng’s awards indicate that she had at least 200 hours in 12 months of voluntary public service, 100 hours of personal development, 100 hours of physical fitness, and a three-day, two-night exploration trip.
The program is open to all youth in the US between the ages of 14 and 24 regardless of ability, according to the award’s website.
The Congressional Award was established in 1979 by the United States Congress as the highest honor for young Americans. A news release states that the award recognizes determination, public service, and character development. Recipients can receive a bronze, silver, or gold Congressional Award certificate or medal after achieving goals in four areas: voluntary public service, personal development, physical fitness, and expedition or exploration.
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