June 23, 2010

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Jerry McNerney (CA-11) welcomed students from the 11th Congressional District to Washington, D.C. today to receive Congressional Gold Medal Awards.

The two gold medal recipients, Carolyn and Mark Talley, are from Danville.  Each student dedicated many hours to volunteering, personal development and physical fitness in order to achieve their gold medals, the program’s highest commendation.   

“I’m thrilled to honor Carolyn and Mark for their Congressional Gold Medal Awards,” said Rep. McNerney.  “They each dedicated many hours to volunteering in the community and striving for personal development and physical fitness.  I’m proud to recognize them for this special achievement.”

Carolyn Talley completed over 400 volunteer hours at a nursing home in Danville and at Stanford University’s Neurobiology Lab, where she assisted with medical research by performing genetic screenings.  She also played competitive tennis at San Ramon Valley High School and is currently a member of Harvard University’s crew team.

Mark Talley completed over 400 volunteer hours building legends and directional signals to improve safety along the bike path at Sycamore Valley Park in Danville.  He also achieved the rank of Eagle Scout and played competitive football at San Ramon Valley High School.

The Congressional Award is the United States Congress' award for young Americans.  The program is open to all 14- to 23-year-olds, who work to earn Bronze, Silver and Gold Congressional Award Certificates and Bronze, Silver and Gold Congressional Award Medals.  Each level involves setting goals in four program areas; Volunteer Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness, and Expedition/Exploration.