Press Releases

Hoyer Hosts Reception for Winners of the Fifth District Congressional Art and App Competitions

WALDORF, MD - This evening, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) hosted a reception for the winners of the annual Fifth District Congressional Art and App Competitions. 

The annual Congressional Art Competition is an opportunity to showcase the artistic talent of high school students in the Fifth District. Amber Fanelli, a senior at Choptican High School in St. Mary’s County, won this year’s competition with her piece titled "La Jolla Rocks,” which is now displayed in the U.S. Capitol complex. 

The annual Congressional App Challenge is modeled after the Congressional Art Competition and is designed to promote innovation and engagement in STEM education fields. Destini Brown, a student at Gwynn Park High School in Prince George’s County, won first place with her app, “How Are You Feeling?” Her app is designed to help those with autism process their emotions.

"I was pleased to honor the talented Fifth District students who won the Congressional Art and App competitions," said Congressman Hoyer. "The students who participated in both competitions showcased an extraordinary level of skill and talent. I was extremely impressed by their hard work and enthusiasm to create." 

The following students were honored today:

Congressional Art Competition

First Place: Amber Fanelli, "La Jolla Rocks" 

Second Place: Munachiso Nwachukwu, "Igbo Royalty" 

Third Place: Gray Hall, "Movie Mania”

Congressional App Competition

First Place: Destini Brown, "How Are You Feeling 2.0" 

Second Place: Stephen Zack and Gable Piatt, "Trash Dash" 

Third Place: Austin Wilson, "Slithery Learning"