Recognizing the 2026 Congressional Art Competition in Puerto Rico
Floor Speech
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Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend the dedicated judges and leaders who supported the 2026 Congressional Art Competition in Puerto Rico, an annual national artistic competition and experience designed to inspire high school students to explore art, innovation, and history.
The Congressional Art Competition provides students in grades 9 to 12 with a unique opportunity to develop original pieces that address real- world challenges through drawing, painting, and, most importantly, creativity.
Behind the success of this program stands an exceptional group of judges, professionals, and leaders in art and entrepreneurship who generously volunteered their time and expertise. They carefully reviewed student submissions, evaluating technical execution and originality, while also offering thoughtful feedback grounded in experience and academic rigor, ensuring a fair, thorough, and meaningful evaluation for every participant.
Beyond judging, these leaders demonstrated a deep commitment to mentorship and youth development. By exposing students to professional pathways, they reinforced the message that Puerto Rico's young people can compete, create, and excel at the highest levels. On behalf of the people of Puerto Rico, I extend my sincere gratitude to the judges and leaders who offered their perspectives and expertise to our district's 2026 Congressional Art Competition, and I include in the Record their names:
Dr. Irene Esteves, Deputy director of Collections and Exhibitions--Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico (MAPR).
Mr. Walter Otero, Founder of Walter Otero Contemporary Art (WOCA), Gallerist, Curator, and Cultural Manager.
Dr. Melissa Ramos Borges, History of Art Professor-- University of Puerto Rico.
Ms. Mariel Quinones, Curator of the Pio Lopez Martinez Museum--University of Puerto Rico at Cayey.
Ms. Ariana Garcia, Illustrator and Augmented Reality Creator, Artist-in-Residence--Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico (MAPR).
Mr. Fernando J. Montilla, Chief Innovation and Technology Officer, Atlantic University.
Their service reflects the very standards we hold our student innovators to--creativity, collaboration, and commitment to artistic expression.
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