HONORING MATTHEW GIBSON AUSTIN

On 2026-07-15, Representative Jason Smith (R-MO-8) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING MATTHEW GIBSON AUSTIN" in the House.

HONORING MATTHEW GIBSON AUSTIN

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E692] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING MATTHEW GIBSON AUSTIN ______ HON. JASON SMITH of missouri in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the accomplishments of Matthew Gibson Austin of Cape Girardeau, Missouri, an exemplar of academic excellence, athletic achievement, and community service whose work has earned recognition at the local, state, and national levels. With a perfect ACT score and an outstanding academic record, he has been admitted to Northwestern University to continue his studies. Active in organizations such as Future Business Leaders of America, Students Against Destructive Decisions, and the National Honor Society, Mr. Austin made a lasting contribution to his school and community. He is also a proud Eagle Scout. Matthew's athletic achievements include being named Boys Tennis Athlete of the Year in Southeast Missouri and receiving the 2025 Bank of Missouri Scholar-Athlete of the Year award. Through his exceptional leadership and individual performance, he earned the role of captain of the Notre Dame Regional tennis team. Through the French Honor Society, Matthew helped raise funds to sponsor a child's education in Haiti. He received the Notre Dame Regional Christian Service Award and the Congressional Award Program Gold Medal after volunteering more than 400 hours with local organizations. Mr. Austin's commitment to service reflects a rare combination of compassion and humility. On behalf of the 8th Congressional District of Missouri, I commend Matthew Gibson Austin for his pursuit of excellence, his breadth of achievement, and his dedication to others, which together set a powerful example for students across the Nation. ____________________