Recognizing Champions of the Week

Floor Speech

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Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize Katrina Halasa, Johnna O'Neal, and Krista Galloway of the Akron Public Schools' science and health department as Ohio's 13th Congressional District Champions of the Week.

The department recently earned the Presidential Award for Excellence in STEM Mentoring on behalf of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy and the National Science Foundation.

As one of just five organizations in the country to earn this award, this is truly an astounding achievement and one that our entire community should be proud of.

This prestigious award recognizes their dedication to shaping the future of science and technology through mentorship, helping to ensure that our incoming STEM workforce reflects the diverse talent of America.

Akron Public Schools' mission is to prepare each child for success, and as an alum of Akron Public Schools, I can attest to their ability to create successful students.

Katrina, Johnna, and Krista support this mission through the science and health department by promoting inquiry and STEM opportunities in and beyond the classroom.

Together, Katrina, Johnna, and Krista provide 60 years of combined mentoring. During Dr. Halasa's 16-year tenure, the department lowered barriers by providing STEM opportunities to over 50,000 diverse scholars. Their focus on a three-tiered approach consisting of teachers, scholars, and partners allows all levels of our community to get involved in educating and mentoring our students to success.

Ohio's 13th Congressional District has long been known for its scientific innovation, and Katrina, Johnna, and Krista are also helping to ensure this legacy for generations to come.

Again, I congratulate Katrina Halasa, Johnna O'Neal, and Krista Galloway on this fantastic accomplishment, and I thank them for all they do for our students and scholars.

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