Congressman Cory Mills Announces Florida’s 7th Congressional District 2024 App Challenge Winners
WASHINGTON – Congressman Cory Mills (FL-07) announced the winners of the 2024 App Challenge competition for Florida’s 7th Congressional District.
The annual Congressional App Challenge competition allows middle and high school students to participate in the most prestigious competition in student computer science. The App Challenge encourages students to learn code and explore careers in computer science by designing, building, and presenting innovative mobile, tablet, or computer device apps, further promoting participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
THE 2024 WINNERS
1st Place: Thomas Ham - Space Destroyers
2nd Place: Mason Propst - War
3rd Place: Lillian Batchelor - Squid Paddle Game
Space Destroyers is an interactive game of war in space, focusing on both challenge and skill as players strive for high scores. Drawing inspiration from beloved classic arcade games, it offers a modern, advanced twist on retro gameplay.
Thomas’ Biography: Born in Germantown, Tennessee, Thomas spent most of his childhood in Florida. Now a high school sophomore at Lake Brantley High School in Altamonte Springs, he excels in academics, coding, and music. He is a dedicated clarinetist in the Marching Patriot Band and has a keen interest in studying Latin. Thomas is the middle child of Chris and Christy Ham, who support his passion for technology, gaming, and new learning opportunities.
Congressman Cory Mills congratulates the winners of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge: 1st place winner Thomas Ham, 2nd place winner Mason Propst, and 3rd place winner Lillian Batchelor. Thomas Ham's app, Space Destroyers, took first place. The app offers players a new experience that blends retro arcade elements with modern design. The game is set on an intergalactic battlefield where players compete for the highest score.
“I am incredibly proud of our students and their innovative work here in Florida’s 7th Congressional District. These children are the future, which is why I remain committed to supporting opportunities for their career development. The dedication to computer science demonstrated by these students exemplifies the skills we want to see as they consider careers in STEM. I would also like to extend my gratitude to our educators, especially Mr. Seth Reichelson, our winners’ teacher, whose instructional strategies have helped over 1,200 students earn college credit by passing the AP Computer Science exam.” said Congressman Cory Mills.
The first-place app will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol and featured on the U.S. House of Representatives website. Additionally, the students will be invited to the House of Code Capitol Hill Reception in Washington, D.C., where winners from across the nation will have the opportunity to showcase their projects.
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