Trevor Somers ’17 has earned the Congressional Award Gold Medal. The distinction is awarded to participants who complete a minimum of 400 hours of voluntary public service, 200 hours of personal development, and 200 hours of physical fitness, and spend at least five consecutive days and four nights exploring a new environment or culture.

Somers has been consistently working to achieve this award for over twenty-four months, the minimum time frame established to earn the Gold Medal. In earning the distinction, Somers will be recognized in the near future by his U.S. Representative at a ceremony to be held in Washington DC.

About The Congressional Award

The Congressional Award is Congress’ only charity. Established into law in 1979, the Congressional Award was created to honor, encourage, and inspire America’s youth. In the ensuing years, Congress has recognized thousands of outstanding young Americans who have earned and deserve our admiration and recognition.

Through the Congressional Award, Congress urges young people to challenge themselves. Any interested, motivated student, aged 14 through 24 years old, may participate in the Congressional Award by setting and achieving individually challenging goals in four program areas: Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness and Expedition/Exploration.

The Congressional Award adapts to meet the needs of every participant as they set goals according to their own interests and level of abilities. The Award is geared toward youth who set their own personally challenging goals and activities. For more information, visit their website here.