[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 26 (Friday, February 7, 2025)]
[House]
[Page H570]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   RECOGNIZING CHAMPIONS OF THE WEEK

  (Mrs. SYKES asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  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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