Floor SpeechNeutral2026-02-17

HONORING DR. NYKOWANNA HARRIS SLOAN AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Infrastructure

Context

On 2026-02-17, Representative Darren Soto (D-FL-9) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING DR. NYKOWANNA HARRIS SLOAN AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH" in the House. The speech addressed infrastructure.

Full Text

HONORING DR. NYKOWANNA HARRIS SLOAN AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E141] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING DR. NYKOWANNA HARRIS SLOAN AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH ______ HON. DARREN SOTO of florida in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 17, 2026 Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Dr. Nykowanna Harris Sloan. With nearly three decades of dedicated service in education, Dr. Nykowanna Harris Sloan is a steadfast advocate for equity, empowerment, and excellence. Her professional journey reflects an enduring commitment to student achievement, youth development, and dismantling systemic barriers that disproportionately affect underserved and historically marginalized Central Florida communities. A recognized champion of restorative practices and culturally responsive education, Dr. Sloan's leadership has transformed school cultures and expanded opportunities for countless students. Beyond the classroom, Dr. Sloan is a devoted servant leader with decades of consistent community engagement focused on uplifting and empowering the African American community. She holds active leadership roles in numerous civic and service organizations and has received multiple awards and accolades. Her memberships range from her beloved Orange County, Florida, Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, to several national and local organizations. In each capacity, she serves not merely as a member but as a strategist, organizer, and advocate for meaningful progress. As a licensed and ordained minister with over 25 years of experience, Dr. Sloan is deeply committed to spiritual growth and holistic development. Her ministry bridges faith and lived experience, offering guidance marked by humility, conviction, and grace. Through preaching, teaching, and pastoral care, she has led many toward healing, purpose, and renewed faith. At the heart of Dr. Sloan's life is her family. A devoted mother and grandmother, she views her children and grandchildren as both her greatest joy and her sacred responsibility in building a better tomorrow. Guided by a generational vision, she leads with love, intention, and unwavering purpose. Across education, ministry, and civic leadership, Dr. Sloan remains anchored in the belief that service is not merely an act, but a calling--one she continues to fulfill with integrity, influence, and lasting impact. ____________________

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HONORING DR. NYKOWANNA HARRIS SLOAN AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E141] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING DR. NYKOWANNA HARRIS SLOAN AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH ______ HON. DARREN SOTO of florida in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 17, 2026 Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Dr. Nykowanna Harris Sloan. With nearly three decades of dedicated service in education, Dr. Nykowanna Harris Sloan is a steadfast advocate for equity, empowerment, and excellence. Her professional journey reflects an enduring commitment to student achievement, youth development, and dismantling systemic barriers that disproportionately affect underserved and historically marginalized Central Florida communities. A recognized champion of restorative practices and culturally responsive education, Dr. Sloan's leadership has transformed school cultures and expanded opportunities for countless students. Beyond the classroom, Dr. Sloan is a devoted servant leader with decades of consistent community engagement focused on uplifting and empowering the African American community. She holds active leadership roles in numerous civic and service organizations and has received multiple awards and accolades. Her memberships range from her beloved Orange County, Florida, Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, to several national and local organizations. In each capacity, she serves not merely as a member but as a strategist, organizer, and advocate for meaningful progress. As a licensed and ordained minister with over 25 years of experience, Dr. Sloan is deeply committed to spiritual growth and holistic development. Her ministry bridges faith and lived experience, offering guidance marked by humility, conviction, and grace. Through preaching, teaching, and pastoral care, she has led many toward healing, purpose, and renewed faith. At the heart of Dr. Sloan's life is her family. A devoted mother and grandmother, she views her children and grandchildren as both her greatest joy and her sacred responsibility in building a better tomorrow. Guided by a generational vision, she leads with love, intention, and unwavering purpose. Across education, ministry, and civic leadership, Dr. Sloan remains anchored in the belief that service is not merely an act, but a calling--one she continues to fulfill with integrity, influence, and lasting impact. ____________________