Congressman Ed Perlmutter, a Democrat from near Golden, announced last week the students from the 7th Congressional District he nominated to receive appointments to the nation’s military service academies, as well as this year’s Congressional Art Competition winner.

Perlmutter hosted a reception May 6 for all the students who participated in the 2016 Congressional Art Competition. About 80 students from across the 7th Congressional District submitted artwork.

This year’s winning artist was Miranda Benfield, a senior at Golden High School, who submitted a colored pencil piece titled “Witness.” Benfield’s artwork will hang in the Cannon Tunnel of the United States Capitol building for one year.

The following day, Perlmutter held a Spring Awards Ceremony to recognize the achievements of 14 outstanding young constituents. This year, 10 students accepted appointments to U.S. service academies and three students won congressional awards for their achievements in volunteerism, personal development, physical fitness and exploration.

“We have some of the best and brightest students here in the 7th District,” Perlmutter said. “It’s an honor and a privilege to have the opportunity to nominate students to the military service academies.”

“I am inspired to see young people in Colorado so committed to serving their country and communities, and I look forward to learning about their continued achievements,” he added.