[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 113 (Tuesday, July 9, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E705]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     HONORING KARMEN ASHLEE BERNARD

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 9, 2024

  Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge 
and commend the remarkable achievements of Karmen Ashlee Bernard, a 
trailblazing student from Yazoo City High School.
  Karmen has made history by becoming the first student from Yazoo City 
High School to fulfill all requirements for an Associate of Arts Degree 
from Holmes Community College before graduating high school. This 
monumental accomplishment is a testament to her exceptional scholarly 
abilities, relentless dedication, and unwavering perseverance.
  Throughout her time at Yazoo City High School, Karmen has 
distinguished herself as a scholar of extraordinary caliber. Her 
participation in dual enrollment courses at Holmes Community College 
has not only showcased her commitment to academic excellence but has 
also set a remarkable example for future generations of students. 
Karmen's dedication is further evidenced by her consistent placement on 
both the President's and Dean's Lists at Holmes Community College, 
highlighting her tireless work ethic and intellectual prowess.
  In addition to her academic achievements, Karmen has been inducted 
into Phi Theta Kappa, an esteemed organization that recognizes high-
achieving college students. This honor reflects her outstanding 
academic performance and commitment to the values of scholarship, 
leadership, and service.
  Karmen has expressed deep gratitude for the opportunities provided by 
Holmes Community College, stating, ``I am incredibly honored and 
humbled to have had the opportunity to pursue my academic interests at 
Holmes Community College. Completing my associate's degree before 
graduating from high school has been a truly transformative experience, 
and I am grateful to God and for the support of my teachers, mentors, 
and family throughout this journey.''
  As Karmen prepares to begin her undergraduate studies at Prairie View 
A&M University in the fall, she will major in Chemistry with a 
concentration in Biomedical Sciences. Thanks to her dual-enrollment 
credits, Karmen will enter as a Junior, fast-tracking her path towards 
achieving her goal of becoming an orthodontist.
  Karmen Ashlee Bernard serves as an inspiration to her peers and the 
entire community, embodying the values of scholarship, leadership, and 
perseverance. Her historic achievement at Yazoo City High School paves 
the way for future students to aspire to and achieve their highest 
academic goals.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Karmen 
Ashlee Bernard's exceptional accomplishments and wish her continued 
success as she embarks on her next chapter at Prairie View A&M 
University. Her story is a testament to the power of ambition and the 
importance of supporting our students in their educational endeavors.

                          ____________________