On 2025-03-18, Representative Darren Soto (D-FL-9) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING MAUREEN "MOLLY" FERGUSON AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH" in the House. The speech addressed healthcare and also covered crime and justice.
HONORING MAUREEN "MOLLY" FERGUSON AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 50 (Tuesday, March 18, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 50 (Tuesday, March 18, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E219] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING MAUREEN ``MOLLY'' FERGUSON AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH ______ HON. DARREN SOTO of florida in the house of representatives Tuesday, March 18, 2025 Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, Maureen ``Molly'' Ferguson is the director of government relations and grant management for Community Health Centers, Inc. Guided by Community Health Centers (CHC) leadership and the mentorship received throughout her career, Molly has developed 20 years of healthcare advocacy experience, working with state and federal legislators, legislative aides, and key stakeholders to shape policies and funding opportunities that support Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). She collaborates with state and national associations to strengthen the collective voice of FQHCs and expand healthcare access. Since joining CHC in 2018, Molly has focused on building partnerships with government agencies, community organizations, and healthcare associations. Her experience in public and private funding has helped secure critical resources for healthcare services. She values strong relationships with grantor agencies, foundations, and corporate partners, ensuring sustainable support for FQHCs. Molly's dedication to advocacy is evident in her work. Along with CHC leadership, she collaborated with Congressman Darren Soto's office to host former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra at CHC- Meadow Woods Center and coordinated with federal staff for former Centers for Disease Control Director Mandy Cohen's visit to CHC-Pine Hills Center. She is an active member of the National Association of Community Health Centers, Florida Association of Community Health Centers, Central Florida Health and Hunger Task Force, Orange County Health Equity Task Force, and serves on the boards of Central Florida Area Health Education Centers and the Central Florida Disaster Medical Coalition. A proud Pennsylvania native, Molly is one of seven children and part of a large extended family, including 20 nieces, nephews, and great- nieces. In 1979, her parents moved to Florida in search of greater opportunities. Their work ethic and dedication deeply inspired Molly, shaping her lifelong passion for advocacy, service, and expanding healthcare access for those in need. ____________________