The ACS, the world's largest scientific society, extends the award periodically to recognize outstanding contributions to the development of public policy that benefits the chemical sciences. Rep. Holt has distinguished himself as an effective advocate for science and as a dedicated public servant, according to the award.
Rep. Holt, a physicist whose background has led to his forming a particularly close relationship with the science and engineering community, was elected to Congress in 1998 for the 12th District. His congressional assignments include the Education and Workforce Committee and the Intelligence Committee.
Over the past few years, Rep. Holt has worked closely with ACS to improve math and science education by spearheading efforts in the House to increase funding for the Math and Science Partnership Program. He also has introduced legislation to improve training for math and science teachers and as a member of the Budget Committee he has championed increases in the physical sciences budget.
Rep. Holt served on the National Commission on Mathematics Science Teaching for the 21st Century, chaired by former Senator and astronaut John Glenn. The Congressman currently sits on several caucuses, including those dealing with renewable energy, sustainable development, Alzheimer's and diabetes, biomedical research, and farmland protection. He also is a member of the New Democrat Coalition.
Rep. Holt lives in Hopewell Township with his wife, Margaret Lancefield, a physician and medical director of the Princeton charity care clinic.