Congresswoman Michelle Steel | X official page
Congresswoman Michelle Steel | X official page
Congresswoman Michelle Steel has announced the winners of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge, a competition aimed at encouraging students from California's 45th District to develop innovative applications addressing societal issues. A panel of judges selected the winners based on age group.
The top prize went to "Recyclopedia," an app created by Jeongseop Yoon and Niranjan Jananrdhanan from Gretchen Whitney High School in Cerritos. The app focuses on sustainability, offering practical tips for recycling.
Rep. Michelle Steel expressed her enthusiasm for the event: “I loved seeing such widespread participation in this year’s Congressional App Challenge. Based on the numerous quality submissions, it is clear that Southern California students are the future of science and technology in our great country,” she said. “I want to congratulate our winners, and all participating students, for their commitment to education and innovation. These bright minds will shape the future of our 21st-century economy, and it is my privilege to represent them in Congress.”
A ceremony was held on November 21 at California State University, Fullerton, where various elected officials and community leaders congratulated participants and celebrated with their families. Notable attendees included Fullerton Mayor Pro Tem Fred Jung and TourTrackr CEO Melissa Medina.
Winners came from various educational levels across the district:
**High School Winners:**
- **1st Place:** Recyclopedia by Jeongseop Yoon and Niranjan Jananrdhanan (Gretchen Whitney High School)
- **2nd Place:** Hallmate by Gavin-kai Vida et al. (Gretchen Whitney High School)
- **3rd Place:** Recidivism Predictor by Ryan You (Fairmont Preparatory Academy)
**Junior High School Winners:**
- **1st Place:** EcoTycoon by Naomi Chow (Frank C. Leal Elementary)
- **2nd Place:** EcoTask by Sabrina Samidon (D. Russell Parks Junior High)
**Elementary School Awards for Creativity:**
- **1st Place:** Addiction Avoider by Jaime Park et al. (Robert C. Fisler School)
The Congressional App Challenge aims to promote STEM skills among U.S. youth as these are crucial for economic growth and innovation.
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