Birmingham, AL — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced the winners of the 2021 Congressional App Challenge. The annual challenge is open to middle and high school registrants throughout Alabama’s 7th Congressional District and is meant to encourage engagement in computer science, coding, and STEM programs. 

“The talent of our students never ceases to amaze and inspire me,” said Rep. Sewell. “Once again, the innovative apps submitted to my office harness the power of coding to find practical solutions to the problems we face as a society. I want to extend my sincerest congratulations to our 2021 winners whose creations demonstrate all that can be achieved when we meet creativity with technology. I know that their skills will serve them well for years to come, and it is my hope that through competitions like this, we can continue to encourage our young people to pursue careers in STEM."

Winners were chosen by judges Morris Foston, Rodrick Barge, Stanley Felder.

• In first place, Brendon Young’s (8th grade) “Disaster Survival Tips” provides life-saving tips via instructional videos to help residents survive natural disasters like heavy rain, flooding, and tornadoes. Brendon attends RB Hudson STEAM Academy in Selma. His app can be previewed here.
• In second place, RB Hudson STEAM Academy’s Aniyah Hatcher, Arrielle Griffin, and Caitlyn Hymes (7th grade) created an app called “Skool Foodies” that lets students choose from food options at school with the goal of cutting down on food waste. Their app can be previewed here.
• In third place, Center Point High School’s Jaceleb Smith and Tylor Brannon (9th grade) created “The Study App”.

“To be honest, I didn't really expect to win,” said first place winner Brendon Young.“I just really like to make games. It isn't really much of a challenge to make these things because I like to code a lot. Maybe, it's just one step forward towards success.”

First place winner Brendon Young will be featured on CongressionalAppChallenge.us and his app “Disaster Survival Tips” will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol along with other winning apps from across the country.

For more information about the Congressional App Challenge, click here.