Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the outstanding service of Mia Rodriguez, my intern who served with distinction in my office and dedicated her time to serving the people of Florida's 24th Congressional District.

Mia is currently a student at Florida International University where her focus is on International Relations and Political Science. She also has served with distinction on FIU's Student Government Association as Chief Justice. I am proud to say that Mia has shown great dedication and has devoted her time in my office to diving deep into the legislative process, particularly when it comes to foreign affairs and trade policy.

Mia's eagerness to learn and excel will always be remembered. I wish Mia all the best as she continues her academic journey of which I am certain will be filled with much success.

On behalf of Florida's 24th Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mia Rodriguez for her commitment and service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the outstanding service of Genesis Santiago, who has made an exceptional contribution to my office during her time as a Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute Fellow. Genesis has served with distinction in my office and dedicated her time to serving the people of Florida's 24th Congressional District.

Genesis holds an impressive academic background, earning three undergraduate degrees from the University of South Florida in History, Secondary Social Studies Education, and Classics and a master's degree in public policy from Georgetown University. Genesis demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to advancing education equity during her fellowship. Her extensive experience as a teacher brought a wealth of knowledge that greatly enhanced our education policy efforts. Genesis immersed herself in the legislative process, consistently delivering high-quality briefing memos and policy recommendations.

In addition to her policy work in higher education, Genesis played a key role in drafting bills and collaborating with several organizations to move our legislative priorities forward. Her ability to articulate complex ideas through Op-eds and legislative writing further underscored her dedication to the issues we care deeply about. She also took on a leadership role with the fellows and interns, assigning meaningful projects and ensuring each team

member had a valuable and enriching congressional experience.

Genesis's attention to detail, collaborative spirit, and positive attitude have made a lasting impression in my office. As her fellowship concludes, I commend her for her unwavering dedication and commitment to education policy. I do not doubt that Genesis will continue to excel and make significant contributions to the field, and I wish her continued success in all her future endeavors.

On behalf of Florida's 24th Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Genesis for her commitment and service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the exemplary service of Christian Hollowell, who was my Director of Operations, and was instrumental in advancing the mission and goals of our office and serving the people of Florida's 24th Congressional District.

Christian's journey in operations and management brought invaluable expertise to our team. From day one, Christian demonstrated an unwavering commitment to efficiency, innovation, and collaboration. As my former Director of Operations, she navigated complex challenges with grace and determination, streamlining processes, enhancing productivity, and fostering a culture of teamwork and excellence. Her strategic insights and leadership were pivotal in driving my office's success and achieving our legislative and community objectives.

Beyond her professional achievements, Christian's integrity, humility, and compassion have touched the lives of everyone in my office. Her ability to inspire and uplift others and her genuine dedication to public service reflects her character and values.

On behalf of Florida's 24th Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in extending our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to Christian Hollowell for her outstanding service, leadership, and dedication to public service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the outstanding service of Shanelle Animley, an intern in my office who served the people of Florida's 24th Congressional District with distinction,

Shanelle, currently a rising senior at South County High School, has brought her willingness to learn and her open-mindedness to public service. In particular, her commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive environment for international students is evident. Her diligent support of mental health for South Floridians is also impressive.

One of Shanelle's greatest strengths is her positivity and maturity, which allowed her to tackle the demanding work of serving the constituents of Florida's 24th Congressional District with skill and ease. Shanelle has concluded her internship in my office, and she leaves a legacy of excellence and service. Her next chapter will undoubtedly be marked by 'her continued success and impactful work.

On behalf of Florida's 24th Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Shanelle Animley for her drive and dedication to the office and beyond.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate the Miami Norland Senior High School Boys Basketball Team for their remarkable achievement in winning the 2024 Florida High School Athletic Association 5A Boys Basketball State Championship. This victory marks the seventh championship in the school's history, a testament to the enduring legacy of excellence at Miami Norland Senior High School.

It is my distinct privilege to recognize the dedication, perseverance, and excellence demonstrated by these young athletes. Under the exemplary leadership of Head Coach Lawton Williams, III and his outstanding coaching staff, the team has achieved the highest honor in Florida high school basketball. The Vikings completed the season with an impressive record of 21-10. Their dedication and hard work culminated in a thrilling championship game at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland, Florida, where they faced Blake High School. The Vikings showcased their skill and determination, defeating Blake with a decisive score of 61-48.

This championship victory is a testament to the hard work, discipline, and teamwork exhibited by each member of the team. The Miami Norland Vikings have not only brought pride to their school but have also inspired the local community through their commitment to achievement on and off the court.

I acknowledge the individual contributions of the 2024 Viking Championship team: Caleb Clarke, Isaiah St. Preux, Triston Wilson, Marcus Allen, Jamal Ware, Lorenzo Major Jr., Kalanji Taylor, Racari Garland, Marquis Siggers, Kendrick Preston, Karon Hill, Emerson Felicien, Chad McDonald, O'Neal Norleus, and Saige Alcin.

Additionally, I commend the invaluable support provided by the team's trainers, whose dedication behind the scenes ensured the athletes were in peak condition: Yahlonnie Church, Ariyel Haynes, Ti'lra Hill, Ro'niyah Mathis, Tatiana Macklin, and Chamia Brown.

I also recognize the essential contributions of the assistant coaches, who played a crucial role in guiding the team to victory: Anthony Johnson, Kelvin Farrington, Brandon Williams, and Cleveland Roberts.

The unwavering support from Principal Mrs. Rhonda Gaines-Miller and Athletic Director Mr. Tyronn Johnson has also been instrumental in the team's success. Their leadership and commitment to fostering a thriving athletic program have provided the foundation for these young athletes to excel.

The Vikings' victory in the state championship is more than a reflection of their athletic prowess; it is a celebration of the values of hard work, perseverance, and unity. These young men have set a high standard for future generations and have brought great honor to Miami Norland Senior High School and the wider community.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring the Miami Norland High School Boys Basketball Team. May their success in sports continue to inspire greatness in all their future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Enid Curtis Pinkney, a trailblazing leader, educator, and historic preservationist whose tireless dedication to her community and to preserving the rich cultural heritage of Miami has left an indelible mark on our Nation.

Enid Curtis was born the third of four children on October 15, 1931 in Miami's Overtown neighborhood to Lenora and Henry Curtis. She graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1949 and later earned degrees from Talladega College and Barry University, along with three honorary doctorates.

Her professional journey began as a social worker and educator, dedicating nearly four decades to the Dade County Public School System, where she retired, in 1991, as Assistant Principal of South Miami Middle School. However, her retirement marked the beginning of another chapter of service, as she turned her attention to historic preservation.

In the mid-1980's, Dr. Pinkney joined the Dade Heritage Trust and, in 1998, broke barriers by becoming its first Black president. She was the driving force behind the creation of the African American Committee, which sought to highlight and preserve the contributions of Black Americans in Miami. Among her many successes was leading the effort to save the Miami Circle, an ancient archaeological site, from demolition, preserving an irreplaceable piece of history.

Dr. Pinkney's commitment to preservation extended across Miami. As president of Natives of Dade, president of the Brownsville Neighborhood Civic Association, and a member of the Virginia Key Beach Park Trust, she was instrumental in preventing the commercialization of historic sites, including the ``Colored'' Beach at Virginia Key, safeguarding its legacy for future generations.

One of Dr. Pinkney's most significant achievements was her work as the Founding President and CEO of The Historic Hampton House Community Trust, Inc. Through her tireless advocacy, she saved the Historic Hampton House Motel, a landmark of Miami's Black history, from demolition, ensuring its restoration and continued presence as a vital cultural site.

Her passion for history also led her to preserve the Lemon City Cemetery, an abandoned Black cemetery, where she worked to ensure that the stories of those interred there were not forgotten.

Dr. Pinkney was not only a preservationist but also a prolific writer and producer, contributing to books, documentaries, and television programs that showcased Miami's rich African American heritage. Her contributions earned her numerous awards including induction into prestigious Halls of Fame, recognition from various organizations, and the Peter H. Brink Award for Individual Achievement in Historic Preservation from the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Not to mention being honored by: The Bahamian Government, and being named by Congresswoman Frederica Wilson as one of the twenty outstanding Bahamian Americans in Miami.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring the life and legacy of this remarkable woman, whose impact will be felt for years to come. Dr. Pinkney's legacy is a reminder of the power of one individual to make a profound difference in the world.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the remarkable career and contributions of Annie Ruth Miles Neasman, MS, RN, upon her retirement from more than five decades of dedicated service in the healthcare industry.

Throughout her illustrious career, Annie R. Neasman has exemplified unwavering commitment and leadership in healthcare, touching the lives of countless individuals in Miami-Dade County and beyond. In 2004, she took the reins as the President and CEO of the Jessie Trice Community Health System, Inc. (JTCHS), and for the following 20 years she led the successful operation of eleven comprehensive community sites, a women's residential substance abuse treatment facility, and numerous school- based health facilities.

Since its establishment in 1967, JTCHS has been a beacon of healthcare excellence in Miami-Dade County, recognized as Florida's first Federally Qualified Health Center and the fifth in the Nation. Governed by a deeply committed Board of Directors, with over half benefitting from its services, and supported by a diverse and talented team, JTCHS embodies steadfast dedication to community well-being and healthcare equity.

Ms. Neasman's journey in healthcare leadership extends far beyond JTCHS. Her tenure as Deputy Secretary of Health and Chief Public Health Nurse at the Florida Department of Health showcased her exceptional leadership acumen and dedication to public health initiatives. During pivotal moments such as Hurricane Andrew and the aftermath of 9/11, her steadfast leadership played a crucial role in the state's response efforts, ensuring the safety and well-being of countless individuals.

Annie Neasman's influence extends beyond her professional roles. She has been a tireless advocate for health equity, addressing the social determinants of health and championing healthcare as a fundamental right for all. Her commitment to fostering partnerships and collaboration with community organizations has been instrumental in advancing public health initiatives and improving access to quality healthcare services.

Throughout her career, Ms. Neasman has been a trailblazer and a mentor, inspiring and guiding countless healthcare professionals. Her impact has been recognized through numerous awards and accolades, including the National Association of Community Health Centers Grassroots Advocacy Hall of Fame Award and the Miami Chapter Black Nurses Association Lifetime Achievement Award, among many others.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognition of Ms. Annie Neasman and her outstanding contributions to healthcare and her unwavering commitment to the well-being of communities. As Ms. Neasman embarks on the next chapter of her journey, her legacy of compassion, dedication, and leadership will continue to inspire us all. We extend our deepest gratitude for her exemplary service and wish her a fulfilling and joyous retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the outstanding service of Renaldine Lafleche, my fellow who has served with distinction in my office and dedicated her time to serving the people of Florida's 24th Congressional District.

Renaldine, a proud alumna of Florida International University, brought her background and passion for creating meaningful change to my office. Her commitment to improving transportation and infrastructure across South Florida was evident in her diligent support of my work on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Renaldine's exceptional expertise and strategic insight have been instrumental in advancing my legislative agenda and ensuring critical amendments were included in crucial pieces of legislation.

One of Renaldine's greatest strengths is building bridges and fostering collaboration. Her dedication to empowering others and uplifting underrepresented voices has left a lasting impression on our team and the communities we serve.

As Renaldine concludes her fellowship today, she leaves a legacy of excellence and service. Her next chapter will undoubtedly be marked by her continued success and impactful work in public service.

On behalf of Florida's 24th Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Renaldine Lafleche for her drive and dedication to public service.

Mr Speaker, I rise today to recognize Apostle John Eckhardt, who is being recognized and honored for his significant impact to the Body of Christ at the 2024 State of the Church Summit, in Miami, Florida.

Whereas, John Eckhardt's journey began on the South Side of Chicago on November 19, 1957, where he was born into a legacy of achievement, with his father being a professional baseball player in the Negro League, and his mother a first-generation descendant of Italian immigrants; and

Whereas, Apostle Eckhardt's pursuit of knowledge led him through the Catholic school system, earning a scholarship to Loyola Academy for high school and Northwestern University for college, where he studied Pre-Med, showcasing his dedication to academic excellence; and

Whereas, Apostle Eckhardt, through divine intervention, experienced salvation in 1978 during his junior year in college, leading him on the path to ministry, where he met his wife, Wanda Eckhardt, at a local church, later marrying her in 1979, and together they have raised a family of five children and two grandchildren; and

Whereas, Apostle Eckhardt, with unwavering dedication, assumed the role of Pastor in 1988 and, over the years, has become a beacon of inspiration for countless individuals, imparting his apostolic mandate and prophetic insight; and

Whereas, Apostle Eckhardt is the visionary CEO and founder of Impact University and John Eckhardt Global, institutions that stand as pillars of knowledge and empowerment in the heart of Chicago. He has dedicated his life to serving as an international speaker, missionary, and overseer of Crusaders Church in Chicago, Illinois; and

Whereas, Apostle Eckhardt has demonstrated a commitment to fostering spiritual growth and understanding, reaching across continents with a weekly broadcast on Clubhouse and Facebook, titled ``The Decrees for Breakthrough and The Porch''. Apostle Eckhardt's influence extends far beyond national borders, having ministered in more than 90 nations and six continents, leaving an indelible mark on the global body of Christ, and

Whereas, Apostle Eckhardt is a prolific author, having penned over fifty books, including renowned titles such as ``Prayers That Rout Demons,'' ``Prayers That Break Curses,'' ``Prophet Arise,'' ``God Still Speaks,'' and his latest release, ``You Shall Recover All''; and

Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, recognize Apostle John Eckhardt for his outstanding contributions to the global community, his unwavering commitment to spiritual enlightenment, and his transformative impact on the lives of countless individuals.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Sandra ``Sandy'' Sears, an outstanding leader in the Greater Miami community.

Ms. Sears received a master's degree in management in 1975 from Northwestern University, Magna Cum Laude. In 2007, she attended the Wharton School CEO Program for Health Care Leadership.

Ms. Sears is a retired senior executive in the Jackson Health System. She served for 39 years in senior level leadership, retiring as the Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of Jackson North Medical Center. Ms. Sears developed the affiliation agreement between Jackson North and the FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, which distinguishes Jackson North as an academic community hospital. Ms. Sears is now continuing her commitment to public service in the capacity of Special Advisor, U.S. Congressional House of Representatives.

Ms. Sears serves with various organizations, including the Miami Alumnae chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and she serves as a member in the Miami-Biscayne Bay chapter of the Links Incorporated. She is also a member of the executive committee of the Vice Provost's Council at Florida International University which is a community relations board on the Biscayne Bay Campus.

Ms. Sears is the recipient of numerous awards, including the Black Heritage Planning Pillars Award for her contributions to the upward mobility of the African-American community throughout the years. She has been named one of the ``Outstanding Black Leaders in Dade County,'' recognized for outstanding community services and leadership by a number of agencies such as Dade County Black Affairs, King of Clubs Greater Miami, Miami-Dade County Health Department, recognized as Outstanding Woman of Distinction and Caring, recognized as One of South Florida's Most Accomplished in Health Care, recognized as an Outstanding Pioneer in Health Care, and in 2013, she was named one of South Florida's Top 50 Most Powerful Business Leaders by Legacy Magazine.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Ms. Sears for all she has achieved. She exemplifies the high quality of volunteerism and civic leadership that we aspire to instill across the country.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the renaming of the administration building at Benedict College in honor of President Roslyn Clark Artis. Effective immediately, the building formerly known as the Benedict College Administration Building will be officially recognized as the Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building.

This historic decision reflects the profound impact of President Artis' visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence in higher education. As the first woman President of Benedict College, President Artis has shattered barriers and inspired countless individuals with her dedication to equity, inclusion, and academic achievement.

President Artis' remarkable journey to this momentous occasion is a testament to her resilience, intellect, and passion for empowering underrepresented communities. Prior to her presidency at Benedict College, Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis served as the first woman President of Florida Memorial University in Miami Gardens, Florida. Throughout her tenure, she had earned numerous accolades and honors, including being named ``Female HBCU President of the Year'' by HBCU Digest and receiving the American Council on Education (ACE) Fidelity Investments Award for Institutional Transformation.

Beyond her exceptional leadership at Benedict College, President Artis has been a tireless advocate for educational access and opportunity. Her impact extends far beyond the confines of the campus, as evidenced by her appointment to the National Advisory Committee on Institutional Quality and Integrity (NACIQI) and her leadership roles in various educational organizations.

The renaming of the administration building is a fitting tribute to President Artis' extraordinary legacy and contributions to higher education. It symbolizes our collective appreciation for her transformative leadership and steadfast commitment to advancing the mission of Benedict College.

As we gather here today to celebrate this historic moment, let us also reaffirm our commitment to supporting President Artis and ensuring that her vision for Benedict College continues to thrive for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in extending heartfelt congratulations to President Roslyn Clark Artis on this well-deserved honor. May the Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building stand as a testament to her enduring legacy and inspire future generations of leaders to strive for excellence in all their endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Nancy S. Dawkins, an outstanding educator and community leader, on the momentous occasion of her 100th birthday.

Nancy S. Dawkins was born on October 11, 1923, in Dania, Florida. She received degrees from Bethune Cookman College, Florida A & M University, and the University of Northern Colorado. She worked in the Dade County Public School System for over 30 years. She was married for over 52 years to the late former Miami City Commissioner, Miller Dawkins.

As a dean in South Florida's political arena, her activism and influence ranges from Federal, Local and State Judges; Members of the United States Congress on both sides of the aisle; Members of both Houses of the Florida Legislature; Dade County and the City of Miami Commissioners and Managers along with numerous employees in all these institutions. Mrs. Dawkins worked tirelessly and supported many elected officials during their successful campaigns, such as Governor Bob Graham, U.S. Congressman Claude Pepper, U.S. Congresswoman Carrie Meek, U.S. Congresswoman Frederica Wilson, Florida Representative Joe Lang Kershaw, County Commissioner Barbara Carey, Florida Representative and School Board Member Dorothy Mindingall, Florida and Miami City Commission Miller Dawkins, Miami Mayor and Commissioner Xavier Suarez, and Florida Representative Gwen Cherry.

This Miami activist was a founder of the Theodore Gibson Oratorical Contest. This contest is named after the late Reverend Theodore Gibson, a former City of Miami Commissioner and community activist. The competition is designed to refine school children's public speaking skills. Mrs. Dawkins is a former Girl Scout Troop leader. She is a member of the American Association of University Women. She is a member of Mt. Zion AME Church in Dania Beach, Florida where she serves as a Stewardess. She has received numerous awards for her service to the community, including a ``Women of Impact'', Sojourner Truth Award, Dr. Martin Luther King Service Award, U.S. Congressional Award, and numerous other awards and appreciations. Mrs. Nancy Dawkins served as Founder and Charter member of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women--South Florida in every official and organizational position. At the 2015 District Conference, she was presented a ``Strands of Wisdom'' golden medallion for her 50 years of service to the Business and Professional Women's Club. In 2018, she was recognized by Bethune Cookman University as the institution's oldest living graduate and Ms. Mary McLeod Bethune's last living student.

The City of Miami has recognized Mrs. Dawkins countlessly throughout the years. Northwest 50th Street between 12th and 17th Avenues was designated ``Mrs. Nancy S. Dawkins Way'' in her honor in 2018. Also, the Miller and Nancy Dawkins Swimming Complex was named after her and her husband at Charles Hadley Park.

She is a life member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and is still active in the Delta Dears. She is a charter member of National Council of Negro Women, charter member and founder of Northwest Miami Chapter No. 4686 of AARP. She is still active in her National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women, the Allapattah Homeowners Association.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Mrs. Dawkins for becoming a centenarian, and her ten decades of dedication and service to the community.

Mr. Speaker, I use today to commemorate the 5th Annual Power & Influence Luncheon hosted by Global Innovative Foundation, Inc. and to pay tribute to their many contributions to our community.

Whereas, the Global Innovative Foundation, Inc is a non-profit organization that was incorporated in 2019 by a diverse group of professionals engaged to create global awareness for the prevention of crimes and to empower the lives of victims and survivors through support, education, service, and scholarships; and

Whereas, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the esteemed honorees of the 5th Annual Power & Influence Luncheon hosted by the Global Innovative Foundation, Inc. These individuals have demonstrated exceptional leadership, compassion, and dedication in their efforts to uplift and support victims and survivors within our community. Among them, we commend Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava for recipient of the Power & Influencer Award, State Representative Marie Woodson, District 105, for being recognized with the Trailblazer Award, Miami-Dade County State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle as the recipient of the Justice Advocate Excellence Award, and Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody as the recipient of the Iman's Light Foundation Award. We also honor the commitment and service of Miami- Dade County Corrections and Rehabilitation Dept. Director Sherea Green, Hispanic Women of Distinction President & CEO Elaine Miceli Vasquez, Miami Dade College School of Health Sciences Dean Dr. Alwyn Leiba, South Region Florida Nurses Association Director Dr. Guillermo Valdes, Jewish University System President Lucy Alfonso, Quest2Freedom Founder & CEO Victor Williams, Empower U Community Health Center, Guiding Light Outreach Founder/CEO Dr. Shanika Ampah, Miami-Dade County's Office Community Advocacy Communications & Media Director Griselle Marino, Foundation of the Americas & Global Philanthropy Society CEO/Founder Rachel Pinedo, President and CEO of CMS International Group Jeff Lozama, and President of Florida Association of Nonprofit Organizations, Inc. Marina Pavlov. Lastly, we recognize the dedicated service of Global Innovative Foundation's 2021-2023 Chairwoman Bernadette Pierre, recipient of the Service Excellence Award.

Whereas, the Global Innovative Foundation, Inc. renders services that empower and instills confidence among individuals. Its partnerships with various organizations and support of other philanthropic causes promote awareness, activities and positive outcomes for victims and survivors of crime; and

Whereas, the Global Innovative Foundation, Inc. provides local, national, and international services such as scholarships, coaching, mental health services, self-defense classes, youth-focused programs, workshops/seminars, advocacy, career development, and mentoring; and

Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, am proud to recognize the Global Innovative Foundation, Inc. for their dedication and outstanding commitment to motivate and empower the lives of victims and survivors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Kimberley F. Emmanuel, an outstanding educator as she retires from Miami-Dade County Public Schools after 3 decades of service.

Mrs. Emmanuel received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from the University of Miami and earned a Master of Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University. She also received a certificate from the Principal Institute at Harvard University.

Kimberley Emmanuel is currently the Principal of Phyllis Ruth Miller Elementary in Miami, Florida, and she has served Miami-Dade County Public Schools in several capacities for the past 35 years and has led with strength and compassion. She has created a learning environment of high expectations and excellence which has guided her schools to raise their levels with state testing. As an administrator, Mrs. Emmanuel emphasized student achievement by analyzing data, and using it to drive instruction, empower teachers, provide outstanding professional development, and forming an effective leadership team to close the achievement gap.

Mrs. Emmanuel has been recognized in numerous ways over her career, including the 2011 Healthy Schools Program National Recognition Bronze Award and 2004 Finalist as a School Administrator of the Year for the Florida African American Education Alliance. She is the 2008-2009 District Finalist for Principal of the Year; 2008 Urban League of Greater Miami Principal of the Year. She is the recipient of the 2004 Distinguished Leadership Award, and a 2005 Letter of Commendation by Governor Jeb Bush as a School Recognized for Outstanding Progress--Most improvement in the State of Florida.

Under the leadership of Mrs. Emmanuel, Phyllis Ruth Miller Elementary is the recipient of the 2023 Merit School of Distinction. This distinction is the second highest honor Magnet Schools of America bestows and is awarded to those that demonstrate an exemplary commitment to academic standards, curriculum innovation, desegregation/ diversity efforts, specialized teaching staffs and parent and community involvement.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Mrs. Kimberley Emmanuel for all she has achieved.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Miramar City Commissioner Yvette Colbourne. Commissioner Colbourne began public service in 2013 when she was elected to the position. She has since dedicated her work to advocating for the well-being of Miramar's citizens by addressing quality-of-life issues, increasing diversity, and working towards a unified community, ``One Miramar.''

Commissioner Colbourne continues to dedicate herself to improving Miramar. Since being elected, she has shown her leadership ability by serving as Vice Mayor for three terms. Additionally, she currently serves as the President of the National League of Cities Women in Municipal Government (WIMG) Constituent Group, highlighting how leaders across the nation, including her fellow elected officials, have recognized her leadership.

I want to recognize her most recent accomplishment as we celebrate Women's History Month. Commissioner Colbourne has accomplished a feat that no other Black person has ever achieved: She will serve as the Chair of the Broward County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO).

In this role, she will lead a federally mandated public agency that catalyzes transportation in the county. She will oversee the coordination of transportation efforts for 31 local governments, 2 million residents, and millions of visitors. She will work to ensure that the residents of Broward County can get where they are going quickly and safely. This effort to ensure safe transit for the residents includes efforts from `Complete Streets' to `Speak Up Broward' and efforts to provide transportation services to disadvantaged people.

Before her elected service, she spent 30 years as a Miami-Dade County administrator. Additionally, she served her local community, including as President of her Homeowners Association. She received both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Nova Southeastern University.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Commissioner Yvette Colbourne for all she has achieved and for her public service, commitment, and dedication to our community.