Think of Michael Cox, a legislative aide to Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-N.Y.), as something of a Simon Cowell. He’s looking for the next Run-DMC.

Last week, Cox got a certificate of appreciation from the public high school in Queens where he helped rebuild a music studio through a bit of private-public matchmaking.

Cox, a Teach for America alum, toured August Martin High School in southwestern Queens earlier this year.

During his visit, Cox noticed that the music studio, which should have been the jewel in the high school’s crown, was inoperable, he says.

“There is a rich tradition of musical aptitude in our district,” he says citing musical artists such as Run-DMC and 50 Cent.

Cox presented the project to two local telecommunications companies, and 10 weeks later the newly renovated state-of-the-art production facility was up and running.

So how does the New Yorker feel about being recognized?

“It was really sweet,” Cox tells HOH. “It made me blush, and I am really dark-skinned so that’s saying something.”