Business Undergraduate Receives Gold Medal from Congressional Award Foundation
A recent University of Texas at Arlington College of Business undergraduate’s dedication to others led her to new accomplishments this past spring.
Melisa Ozer received The Congressional Award from the United States Congress in March 2023 and recently graduated in May 2023 with her Bachelor of Business Administration in Economics and Finance. The Congressional Award program is a voluntary non-partisan foundation that is open to youths ranging from 13.5-24 years of age. Participants are required to complete four stages that consist of public service, personal development, physical fitness, and an expedition or exploration with all stages requiring a minimum set hours and days. Melisa completed all requirements within 2.5 years and was awarded the gold medal.
Melisa (C) at awards ceremony with Skip Braziel, Venton Jones and R. Gerald Turner (L-R)
"I have been volunteering as a high-school mentor for 5 years, and the other mentors and I were researching about the programs for high schoolers that will benefit them to get into colleges. And we came across the Congressional Award Program, which requires discipline and self-motivation. I noticed the age requirement and realized I could participate in this group. In this way, I could be a role model and a participant for others."
Mentoring at Raindrop of Dallas gave Melisa the chance to submit for the program and challenge herself further. “My goal was to help students advance in their academic skills and contribute to the future for a better world. My favorite part was that I learned how to be more responsible and lead others, mentor each person, communicate effectively, manage their time, and decide on a new applicable academic curriculum.”
Melisa accepting award from Skip Braziel
To accomplish the remaining stages, Melisa set specific goals for herself. For personal development she learned Spanish and improved her Russian, the physical development allowed her to focus on building her strength as she completed 10,000 steps a day and the exploration took her on an adventure to see the Atlantic Ocean in Florida and Fort Clinch State Park.
“This award is a reminder of the power of perseverance, collaboration, and dedication to a cause. I am excited to see where this new chapter takes me. I look forward to collaborating with like-minded individuals and organizations to make a meaningful difference. I will carry this recognition with great pride and continue striving to make a positive impact in everything I do.”
Melisa with congressional awardees at SMU
