The Congressional Service Award recognizes members of the United States Congress or a federal agency for their outstanding support of federal education legislation and Educational Service Agencies (ESAs). Each year, AESA honors one or more members of Congress who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and advocacy in advancing the federal role and funding of ESAs.
Criteria for the Award
- Strong support for expanding the federal role and funding for ESAs.
- Advocacy for positions on federal legislation that aligns with AESA's mission.
- Leadership on or membership in congressional committees sponsoring ESA-related legislation.
Recognizing our elected officials for their support is crucial to advancing the work of ESAs.
This award is presented at the Advocacy in Action Conference in Washington, D.C.
2024 Recipient
Radha Sekar
Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC)
At the 2024 Advocacy in Action Conference, AESA awarded Radha Sekar, CEO of the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), the 2024 AESA Congressional Service Award. This honor recognizes leaders who have significantly impacted federal education policy and supported ESAs nationwide. Since 2018, Radha has played a key role in closing the digital divide for underserved communities, strengthening the FCC’s Universal Service Fund programs, and supporting schools, libraries, healthcare providers, and rural areas. Her work aligns with AESA’s mission to address critical gaps in access to services. Read more here.