Wittman congratulates Tucker HS senior as First District winner of 2025 Congressional Gold Medal Award

U.S. Congressman Rob Wittman (R-VA-01) recently congratulated J.R. Tucker High School senior Tess Vithoulkas, who received the Congressional Gold Medal Award.

The award honors students who dedicate more than two years to meeting the requirements set by Congress in 1979 when it established the Congressional Award, including community service, personal development, physical fitness, and expedition or exploration.

"I’m proud to congratulate Tess Vithoulkas on receiving the Congressional Gold Medal Award,” said Wittman. “This prestigious honor reflects Tess’s incredible dedication and perseverance in meeting the rigorous goals. Her achievement is a testament to the talent and determination of the young people across Virginia’s First District."
 
Vithoulkas volunteered more than 400 community service hours with Cards for Seniors and RVAccess, devoted more than 200 hours hours to personal development by becoming lifeguard certified and conducting science experiments, completed more than 200 hours participating on her soccer, basketball, and field hockey teams for the physical fitness requirement, and planned and led a five-day expedition to Greece. Her efforts, Wittman said, exemplify the excellence and determination the Congressional Award seeks to recognize and promote in America’s youth.

“Looking back at my service, physical fitness, personal development, and expedition goals, I feel proud of what I have accomplished,” said Vithoulkas. “I have gained an appreciation of the effort it takes to be well rounded, have found lots of enjoyment helping others around me, and am motivated to continue to better myself.”
 
For details about the Congressional Award, visit the Congressional Award Website.