Dr. Mark Green, Congressman for Tennessee’s 7th District, recently made a stop in Henderson, to acknowledge the achievements of Rilee Kat Vest. Ms. Vest earned both the Bronze and Silver Congressional Awards but between the pandemic and world events, there had not been an opportunity for Dr. Green to actually present the awards.
The Congressional Award is the United States Congress’ highest honor bestowed upon a youth civilian through the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. Established by Congress in 1979 under Public Law 96-114, the program recognizes initiative, service, and achievement in youth ages 13 1/2 – 23.
To be considered for the awards, Vest completed 269 hours of volunteer service, 150 hours of physical fitness training, 132 hours of personal development, 75 hours of leadership development, and a 4-night/5-day expedition within a 12-month period.
Rilee Kat Vest is a 2021 graduate of Chester County High School. She is a junior at the University of Tennessee-Martin where she is continuing her commitment to civic involvement by serving as Senator for the College of Education, Health, and Behavioral Science, Chair of the Campus Opportunities Committee, and a Leader with Baptist Collegiate Ministries.
