Advisory: Rep. Johnson to announce winners of Congressional App Challenge

Congressman hosts top three winners of inaugural App Challenge

LITHONIA, GA – On Friday, Feb. 19 Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) is hosting the top three students of his inaugural App Challenge—a competition that encourages U.S. high school students to create their own mobile applications.

Johnson’s office collected more than 20 submissions from high schools in the Fourth District, which includes parts of DeKalb, Gwinnett, and Newton and all of Rockdale County.

The panel of judges included Super Soaker inventor Lonnie Johnson, CISCO instructor Theresa Williams, Hip Hop recording artist/reality show personality Yung Joc, Sciberus CEO Laron Walker, and NBA analyst Dennis Scott. They evaluated the apps on creativity, convenience, and mobility.

The App Challenge highlighted the value of computer science and STEM education (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). Of the 435 members of the House of Representatives, Congressman Johnson ranked in the top 10 of his peers for the number of app competition submissions.

“Science and technology are transforming our world and we must do all we can to ensure our kids are taking part in and helping shape the changing economy,” said Johnson. “I’m proud of the students who participated in our first challenge. They have showcased some of the Fourth Congressional District’s brightest young minds as they take on cutting-edge technology that is becoming an increasing part of all our lives.”

At the recognition ceremony, Johnson, Walker, DeKalb County Area Superintendent Dr. Ralph Simpson and other special guests will help Congressman Johnson congratulate the top three students with prizes and words of encouragement, as well as provide knowledge on how to get their apps on the market.