HONORING ILENE PAPPERT ON THE OCCASION OF HER RETIREMENT

On 2026-04-23, Representative Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY-11) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING ILENE PAPPERT ON THE OCCASION OF HER RETIREMENT" in the House. The speech addressed the environment and also covered infrastructure.

HONORING ILENE PAPPERT ON THE OCCASION OF HER RETIREMENT

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 72 (Thursday, April 23, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 72 (Thursday, April 23, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E363-E364] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING ILENE PAPPERT ON THE OCCASION OF HER RETIREMENT ______ HON. NICOLE MALLIOTAKIS of new york in the house of representatives Thursday, April 23, 2026 Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Ilene Pappert on the occasion of her retirement after more than 50 years of dedicated service to the children and families of Staten Island, including 34 years as Director of Children's Aid Goodhue Center in New Brighton. For nearly five decades, Ms. Pappert has been a steadfast and compassionate leader, devoting her life to uplifting young people and strengthening Staten Island's North Shore community. A trained social worker, she began her journey at Goodhue in the 1970s and steadily rose through the ranks before assuming the role of Director in 1992. Under her leadership, the Goodhue Center has nourished as a haven where generations of children have found support, mentorship, and opportunity. Each day, Ms. Pappert could be found greeting children with warmth and care--whether helping with homework, tying a shoelace, or simply offering encouragement. Through after-school programs, summer camps, and family engagement initiatives, she helped create an environment where young people could grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Her leadership ensured that hundreds of children each year benefited from enriching programming in the arts, sciences, athletics, and beyond. Beyond her work within the center, Ms. Pappert has been a tireless advocate for the Goodhue campus and the surrounding community. She worked closely with local elected officials to secure critical funding for programs and played a key role in preserving more than 40 acres of wooded land for public use, helping to ensure that future generations of Staten Islanders will continue to enjoy this treasured space. Known for her gentle spirit and caring nature, Ms. Pappert has earned the admiration of colleagues, families, and community members alike. Her recognition as a 2026 Staten Island Advance Woman of Achievement is a testament to her extraordinary impact and enduring legacy. As she transitions into retirement, we celebrate not only her remarkable career, but the [[Page E364]] countless lives she has touched. The Goodhue Center, and all of Staten Island, is stronger because of her service. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Ilene Pappert for her lifetime of dedication and to wish her continued health, happiness, and fulfillment in the years ahead. ____________________