Idaho Congressman Russ Fulcher recently presented Coeur d’Alene High School student Kyle Rohlinger his Congressional Award Gold Medal.

Rohlinger attended this year’s Gold Medal Summit in Washington, D.C., along with 876 other medal-winning, young Americans. 

The medal represents a commitment to voluntary public service, personal development, physical fitness and exploration, a press release said.

“The hard work I put into all of the categories made me a well-rounded, better person,” said Rohlinger.

Over the span of the summit, 193 members of the House and the Senate met with their constituents, giving medalists the chance to share the Congressional Award journeys and discuss their service, goal setting, perseverance and personal growth required in order to receive Congress’ highest honor for American youth. 

“I learned the value of dedication and consistency from the time it took to earn the Gold Medal. It really taught me how to stay consistent with my goals and improve different aspects of my life,” Rohlinger said.

Rohlinger’s learned lessons are exactly the point of the award and its ceremony.

“This year's Gold Medalists represent the very best of what young people can accomplish when they set meaningful goals and commit themselves to service, growth and exploration,” said Erica Heyse, the national director of the Congressional Award, in a press release. 

Over the three-day summit, medalists participated in panel discussions, networking sessions, a STEM Stars Reception, congressional meetings and more. 

“For many of these students and families, traveling to Washington, D.C., and meeting their elected officials is the culmination of years of hard work. The Summit gives us the opportunity not only to celebrate what they have achieved, but also to remind them that this medal is a foundation for a lifetime of leadership, civic engagement and impact,” said Heyse in a press release.

Part of the award process is exploration, to which Rohlinger chose to explore Japan.

“I really enjoyed learning about Japanese culture and exploring a part of the world I was unfamiliar with. The journey has been an excellent, worthwhile experience,” he said.

He was the only medalist from Idaho to attend the summit, and one of three awarded from the state. 

“I was tremendously proud to represent the state,” he said. 

Currently, Rohlinger is working in Coeur d’Alene. In August, he will attend his sophomore year at Notre Dame University, where he studies economics and French. 

He hopes to be an inspiration to other young Idahoans. 

“I also hope to encourage other Idaho students to pursue this goal,” he said.