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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) received the 2026 Champion of Science award from the Science Coalition. Congressman Wittman was jointly nominated for this honor by Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and Old Dominion University (ODU). The award recognizes his advocacy for scientific research over the course of his career.

“I am honored to receive the Champion of Science award this year,” said Rep Wittman. “Before coming to Congress, I spent over 20 years working in public health for the Virginia Department of Health’s Division of Shellfish Sanitation monitoring water quality and environmental health issues in the watershed. I am a scientist first, which is why I have dedicated my career to supporting environmental research. I remain committed to advancing federal investments that empower researchers, strengthening the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) workforce, and ensuring the United States remains at the forefront of discovery.”

Background:
Before coming to Congress, Congressman Wittman earned a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration from Virginia Commonwealth University, a Master of Public Health degree in Health Policy and Administration from the University of North Carolina, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Virginia Tech. He spent 26 years as a health specialist for the Virginia Department of Health’s Division of Shellfish Sanitation and as an environmental health specialist for local health departments in Virginia’s Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula regions. He has remained focused on protecting and conserving the environment through his work in Congress by supporting legislation like the America’s Conservation Enhancement (ACE) Act and the Chesapeake Bay Conservation Acceleration Act. Congressman Wittman also serves as Vice Chair of the House Committee on Natural Resources.