- Record: Extensions of Remarks
- Section type: Recognition
- Chamber: House
- Date: May 4, 2026
- Congress: 119th Congress
- Why this source matters: Extensions of Remarks are statements submitted for the official record, even if they were not spoken live on the floor.
HONORING DANIELA RODRIGUEZ APONTE, 2026 CONGRESSIONAL ART COMPETITION
WINNER FOR PUERTO RICO
HON. PABLO JOSE HERNANDEZ
of puerto rico
in the house of representatives
Monday, May 4, 2026
Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding achievement of the winner of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition in Puerto Rico, a nationwide initiative that encourages high school students to explore art, innovation, and cultural expression.
creativity, storytelling, and design principles of video games. Among many talented participants, one student distinguished herself through originality, strong thematic relevance, and technical excellence.
student at Escuela Especializada Central de Artes Visuales in San Juan, as this year's winner. Her piece, titled “Level Up: Boriken Dreams,” is a digital illustration that portrays Puerto Rican youth immersed in a vibrant, arcade-like setting, engaging with a game that reflects their identity, environment, and aspirations. Through its composition and use of color, the work captures both imagination and cultural pride, offering a compelling interpretation of the competition's theme.
thoughtful message about how younger generations engage with culture, technology, and community. It is a clear demonstration of how art can serve as a powerful language to communicate ideas and inspire reflection.
and talent that distinguishes Puerto Rico's young artists. It also underscores the importance of arts education in fostering innovation and expression, and in strengthening the cultural fabric of our communities.
congratulations to Daniela Rodriguez Aponte for this remarkable accomplishment. Her work represents the creativity, determination, and excellence that we strive to cultivate in all students.