KALAMAZOO, Mich. – U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, today presented Kalamazoo resident, Sierra Staunton with the Congressional Award – the highest honor a member of the House can bestow upon a youth civilian – in recognition of her service to her community.

Staunton was joined by her family and teachers.

“Sierra earned this incredible honor because she sought out to achieve incredible goals – and that’s exactly what she did,” Upton said. “She helped young folks in our community by volunteering more than 100 hours through the FIRST organization.  She grew as a person, participating in an international youth symphony orchestra at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp. She achieved her fitness goals by advancing to the junior varsity soccer team and reducing her mile time. And she successfully achieved her expedition challenge by completing a 3-day camping trip along the Snowbird Mine Trail in Mantanuska Valley, Alaska. Sierra is incredible talented, she has made her entire community proud, and I am confident these achievements are just the start for her.”

“Working towards the award was a unique experience that helped me grow and become a more confident leader and adventurer,” Staunton said. “Through my expedition, I was able to foster my outdoor skills which helped me to lead others on hiking trips this year.  Overall, I look fondly on my time spent working with the FIRST organization to show our community how much fun STEM can be.”

To receive the Congressional Award, participants set goals in four program areas, including Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physically Fitness, and Exploration.

The United States Congress established The Congressional Award Foundation on November 16, 1979 to recognize initiative, service, and achievement in young people. 50,000 participants are enrolled nationwide, and as part of the program, young Americans have contributed more than 8.5 million hours of service to communities.

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