[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 75 (Wednesday, May 1, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E436]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING MARKYEL PITTMAN

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 1, 2024

  Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a 
remarkable servant, Markyel Pittman.
  Markyel Pittman hails from the vibrant city of Grenada, MS, and 
boasts an impressive educational journey, having graduated from Grenada 
High School, Holmes Community College, and Jackson State University.
  Throughout Mr. Pittman's undergraduate tenure, he epitomized the 
essence of a campus leader and community servant. His illustrious track 
record includes hold esteemed positions such as Mr. Junior, JSU and MS 
NAACP Youth & College State President, Fannie-Lou-Hammer Pre-Law 
Society President, Pre-Alumni Counsil President, Vice President of Men 
of Excellence, Intervarsity, and Collegiate 100.
  Mr. Pittman is a proud Spring 2024 Initiate of the Rho Xi Lambda 
Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Additionally, Mr. Pittman's 
academic prowess has garnered his accolades such as the JSU 
Presidential & Dean's Scholar, the Political Science Fannie-Lou-Hammer 
Award, Golden Key Honor Society, Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society and Alpha 
Kappa Mu Honor Society. Mr. Pittman's commitment to community 
empowerment is further underscored by prestigious recognitions 
including the Mississippi Votes Emerging Trailblazer Award.
  Mr. Pittman's dedication to public service is exemplified by his 
internships in my Greenwood District Office and his current role as the 
Youth Civic Engagement Coordinator for Mississippi Votes, where he 
focuses on central Mississippi. He has championed causes such as 
student debt relief, serving as a vocal advocate and engaging directly 
with policymakers such as Secretary of Education, Miguel Cardona.
  Notably, Mr. Pittman has been a dynamic force in voter registration 
drives, successfully registering over 1,000 Mississippians. He has also 
delivered impactful speeches, including as the closing speaker at the 
NAACP's 114th National Convention for the youth and college division.
  Mr. Pittman draws strength from his faith, firmly believing that his 
voice, connections, and knowledge are divine gifts bestowed upon him to 
champion the cause of the oppressed. His guiding scripture, Romans 
8:31, encapsulates his unwavering resolve: ``What then shall we say in 
response to these things, if God be for us, who can be against us?''
  Markyel Pittman stands as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change 
in his community and beyond.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. 
Markyel Pittman, for his dedication and tenacity to serving his 
community and desire to be an example for all.

                          ____________________