John Joyce

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Dr. David J. Skorton, who has announced his retirement as President and CEO of the Association of American Medical Colleges effective in June 2027.

Since his appointment in 2019, Dr. Skorton's leadership at the AAMC has been marked by a deep commitment to advancing academic medicine, strengthening the physician workforce, training the next generation of caregivers, and improving the health of patients and communities across the country.

Dr. Skorton believes that the best path forward for medical practitioners is to possess a clear-eyed view of existing challenges and recognize that more must be done to improve the health of people everywhere.

Early during his tenure, Dr. Skorton guided AAMC through the COVID-19 pandemic, helping to bring attention to shortages of personal protective equipment in hospitals and testing shortages in academic laboratories.

Prior to joining AAMC, Dr. Skorton was the 13th Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution and president of both Cornell University and the University of Iowa. As Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, Dr. Skorton oversaw 19 museums, 21 libraries, the National Zoo, numerous research centers, and several education units and centers.

Dr. Skorton's background as a physician and researcher provided the foundation for his career as an academician and university administrator. As a leader in higher education, Dr. Skorton set a tone of accessibility, consultation, and compassion.

An avid musician who plays the flute and saxophone, Dr. Skorton is an ardent and nationally recognized supporter of the arts and humanities.

On behalf of constituents throughout the 13th Congressional District, I express gratitude to Dr. Skorton for his distinguished and impactful contributions to society and extend to him best wishes for a wonderful retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ostomy Awareness Day, which will be observed on Saturday, October 3, 2026.

An ostomy can be a difficult and deeply personal journey, but for many, it is also a second chance at life. Ostomy surgery can provide a path forward for individuals facing serious illnesses and conditions, including colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, traumatic injuries, and other medical challenges. These procedures can be lifesaving and allow individuals to return to their families, workplaces, communities, and the activities they love.

Yet too often, people living with an ostomy face misunderstanding, stigma, and unnecessary barriers. Ostomy Awareness Day provides an opportunity to educate the public, dispel misconceptions, and remind us that an ostomy does not define a person or diminish their quality of life.

In Pennsylvania, approximately 32,500 people are living with an ostomy. Their stories demonstrate the strength of those who continue to live full and meaningful lives after significant medical challenges.

Families, caregivers, physicians, nurses, certified ostomy nurse specialists, and other health care professionals also deserve recognition for the care and support they provide to those living with an ostomy.

On Ostomy Awareness Day, we celebrate the resilience of the ostomy community and recognize the medical advances and dedicated professionals who make these life-saving surgeries possible.

On behalf of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing October 3, 2026, as Ostomy Awareness Day.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Jeff Long for his selection as the recipient of the Kiwanis Club of Altoona's Distinguished Citizen Award.

The award is given in recognition of major contributions to the betterment of society and advancement of the Altoona area.

With nearly 50 years of achievement in the construction industry, including development of the popular Graystone properties, Jeff has generously supported numerous charitable and nonprofit organizations throughout the communities where he lives and works.

Impressively, Jeff measures success by the people he has helped, the communities that he has built and strengthened, and the opportunities that he has created for so many others.

As a businessman and community volunteer, Jeff has truly devoted his life to investing in Central Pennsylvania.

On behalf of constituents throughout Blair County and the entire 13th Congressional District, I congratulate Jeff Long on this prestigious award and thank him for his contributions to the community.