Press Releases

Yesterday, Congressman Bill Huizenga presented Jenison High School senior, Tej Kothari, with the Congressional Award Bronze Medal. The Congressional Award is the highest honor Congress can bestow upon young people across the nation. In order to be considered and recognized for a Congressional Award, a student must meet goals and objectives in four key areas: voluntary public service, personal development, physical fitness, and expedition/exploration.

Tej volunteered with the West Michigan Special Hockey Association to help children and young adults with down syndrome, autism or any other developmental disability be a part of a team and play hockey. Tej also actively volunteered with the Grand Rapids Sledwings Youth Hockey Program. Additionally, Tej collected supplies that were then used to create crafts which were sold to support Women at Risk International to combat human trafficking. 

“Tej’s leadership, dedication, and volunteerism is exemplary," said Congressman Bill Huizenga. “Tej’s incredible drive to help others serves as a wonderful example for people of all ages, but especially to his peers here in West Michigan and across the nation. Congratulations Tej and thank you for working to make our community an even better place to call home.”

For personal development Tej took on the challenge of a part time job at Action Water Sports while maintaining his grades, extracurricular activities, and volunteering. For physical fitness, Tej implemented an aggressive skating regiment that improved his speed and core strength while also enacting a routine of wall-sits, planks, push-ups, weightlifting and strengthen training. For his exploration, Tej wanted to expand his knowledge of WWII and the Holocaust so he traveled to the Netherlands and Germany where he visited pivotal historic sites such as the Anne Frank House, Dachau, and Neuschwanstein Castle.

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. The program is open to all youth regardless of ability, circumstance, or socioeconomic status. Participants earn Bronze, Silver, and Gold Certificates and Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medals.