Chapter 40 - The National Economic Policy Award Announcement
In mid-November, an official, crest-embossed letter arrived at Chloe’s office from the White House Council of Economic Advisers. She had been formally selected to receive the prestigious National Economic Policy Excellence Award for her groundbreaking research and implementation of foundational labor reform.
The gala dinner and award ceremony were scheduled to take place in Washington, D.C., drawing elite economic advisors, cabinet secretaries, and international policymakers from across the globe.
When Chloe shared the monumental news with her team at Apex Analytics, the entire office erupted into thunderous applause. Donna, who had driven downtown specifically to deliver a celebratory box of oversized coffees, beamed with absolute pride, wrapped her arms tightly around Chloe, and whispered through happy tears, "From the 5:00 a.m. custodial shift all the way to the national stage. Look at you now, boss!"
