World Languages Institute seniors Kassandra Loera and Francisco Lugo Gonzales received the Congressional Award Gold Medal in a ceremony at SMU this past Saturday. To qualify, these students had to complete 400 hours of voluntary public service, 200 hours of personal development, and 200 hours of physical fitness and plan an expedition.
In 1979, the U.S. Congress created the Congressional Award to honor young people who show initiative, service, and achievement. This charity is the most prestigious honor for young Americans and is open to ages 13-23. Participants can earn Bronze, Silver, and Gold certificates and medals by setting goals in four areas: Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness, and Expedition/Exploration.