Houston, Texas (Commonwealth Union)_ Presidential Lifetime Achievement Awards are granted to people who have demonstrated exemplary character, morals, ethics, and community service. US President Joe Biden has awarded the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award to Krishna Vavilala, an Andhra-born Indian-American and longtime resident of Houston. Vavilala, an 86-year-old Indian-American who is a native of Andhra Pradesh, was awarded the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award. The PLA Award is the highest honor of the nation for community and national service.
On receiving the award, Vavilala said: “I am deeply touched by this unexpected honor, which is truly a recognition of the contributions of the Indians in Houston.” AmeriCorps hosts an annual event to reward residents who demonstrate exemplary character, a strong work ethic, and commitment to their communities. AmeriCorps is a federal agency in the United States that involves over five million Americans in service through a wide range of voluntary work programs in several areas.
The event honored Krishna Vavilala, a Houston resident for the past forty years, as a changemaker and global humanitarian for a lifetime of dedication and accomplishments. At the ceremony, he was accompanied by his wife, Prabhat Lakshmi, two daughters, Monica and Amanda, and four grandchildren. The retired electrical engineer Krishna Vavilala is the founder and current president of the Foundation for India Studies – FIS. In addition, he has served as president of the American Society of Indian Engineers, the Telugu Cultural Association of Houston and the Telugu Literary and Cultural Association.
In the Citation of the Congressional Certificate of Recognition, the keynote speaker, 18th District Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, said: “Your dedication to serving your nation deserves the respect, admiration, and Commendation of the United States Congress.” During his speech, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner remarked that the honor recognizes selfless people who labor behind the scenes without expecting any recognition for their efforts. He added: “For this, your kindness and generosity are deserving of this award. The City of Houston is pleased to honor you and thank you for your dedication to the betterment of this world.”
