H.R. No. 136
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, By promoting the study of science, technology,
engineering, and mathematics, the Marvels robotics program is
helping North Texas students gain the skills and confidence they
need to build a bright future for themselves and for the Lone Star
State; and
WHEREAS, The Marvels initiative was established in 2021 by
Dr. Mohamed Ebeida, a research scientist at Sandia National
Laboratories, to increase access to STEM topics within the Muslim
American community and beyond; part of the nonprofit Itkan
Institute of Technology in Dallas, the program currently
encompasses four student-led teams that participate in FIRST
robotics competitions in the categories of LEGO League, Tech
Challenge, and Robotics; by taking part in these challenging
events, students gain knowledge and experience in such disciplines
as robotics engineering, coding, 3D modeling, outreach, marketing,
public relations, and fundraising; and
WHEREAS, Under the leadership of Dr. Ebeida, Lon
Cherryholmes, Dr. Leila Kayed, and Marwan Marouf, the organization
hosts events that bring together FIRST teams from around North
Texas; at the FIRST Tech Challenge F&M League Tournament, held on
January 21, 2023, at the Islamic School of Irving, one of the
Marvels teams, the Marvels of Irving, made an outstanding showing,
securing a position in the finalist alliance, claiming the Connect
Award, and finishing as runner-up for the Inspire Award; the team
will go on to take part in the Regional North Texas FTC Tournament;
and
WHEREAS, The Marvels team from Richardson, Marvels of MAS,
turned in an exceptional performance at the FTC Central Metro
Qualifier in Colorado, held on January 7, 2023; the team reached the
playoffs of the competition and recorded four wins and two losses to
capture the event championship; and
WHEREAS, The members of the Marvels robotics teams have
demonstrated notable skill and dedication, and they are indeed
deserving of special recognition; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 88th Texas
Legislature hereby congratulate the Marvels of Irving and the
Marvels of MAS robotics teams on their achievements and commend
Dr. Mohamed Ebeida and all those associated with the Marvels
robotics program for their exemplary work; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for the teams as an expression of high regard by the Texas
House of Representatives.
Meza
______________________________
Speaker of the House
I certify that H.R. No. 136 was adopted by the House on March
7, 2023, by a non-record vote.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House