HONORING VELETER MAZYCK

On 2024-12-11, Representative Shontel M. Brown (D-OH-11) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING VELETER MAZYCK" in the House. The speech addressed taxes and also covered the environment, trade policy.

HONORING VELETER MAZYCK

Congressional Record, Volume 170 Issue 184 (Wednesday, December 11, 2024) [Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 184 (Wednesday, December 11, 2024)] [House] [Page H6806] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING VELETER MAZYCK The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Brown) for 5 minutes. Ms. BROWN. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor an individual whose service, character, and dedication have left an indelible mark on this institution and the people it serves. I first met Veleter M.B. Mazyck in 2017 when I was selected to participate in the CBC Institute boot camp. I could not have known then that 4 years later Veleter would become not only my chief of staff but also a trusted adviser, confidante, and unwavering partner in serving the people of Ohio's 11th Congressional District. A steady hand who had served my predecessor for more than a decade, Veleter has been vital to the success of my office ever since. As she prepares to retire, I rise to recognize a career defined by integrity, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to public service. Too often the contributions of congressional staff remain behind the scenes, unnoticed by the public but essential to our democracy. Far from the cameras, the House Chamber, or the committee dais, staff work long hours. They are driven by a deep and abiding sense of duty. Veleter Mazyck personifies this culturally, spiritually, and professionally. She is known for being both wise and witty, spontaneous and strategic, careful and kind, thoughtful and thorough, but, most importantly, a loving, loyal, steady, and steadfast steward of our Nation. She is a calm and commanding force behind every success. {time} 1030 Mr. Speaker, I rise to etch the name of Veleter Mazyck into the Congressional Record, ensuring her legacy endures for years to come. An unsung hero of this institution, Veleter committed herself to honing the skills and talents the Lord had blessed her with, to bending the moral arc of the universe a little bit closer to justice, and to ensuring our government serves its people with respect, dignity, and compassion. After a celebrated career as a general counsel to large metropolitan school districts, Veleter agreed to serve as Congresswoman Fudge's chief of staff for 1 year or maybe 2. Yet, a decade later, Veleter was still here, a cornerstone of the office, the Congress, and, dare I say, the country and the Constitution. Through her efforts, legislative priorities were championed with purpose and passion; crises were managed with character and charisma; and partnerships were forged, both publicly and privately, all with the goal of creating a better future for the people of Ohio's 11th Congressional District. Following my predecessor's appointment to President Joe Biden's Cabinet, Veleter skillfully managed the office during the transition, ensuring constituents continued to receive the support that they needed. Upon my swearing in, her wealth of experience and knowledge allowed me to competently step into my role. Ever since, Veleter's deep understanding of this institution has been invaluable. In moments of uncertainty, Veleter was the steady hand navigating challenges with poise and resolve. In moments of triumph, she didn't celebrate personal accolades but the victories achieved for the people of northeast Ohio. In every moment in between, she exemplified the highest standards of professionalism and dedication. What truly sets Veleter apart is her ability to bring out the best in those around her. Whether mentoring young staffers or building coalitions with colleagues, she led with patience, humility, and a genuine belief in the power of collaboration. After 13 years, the countless individuals she has impacted, from colleagues to constituents, are a testament to the lasting influence she has had on all who have worked with her. As Veleter steps away from Capitol Hill, I know that her contributions will continue to ripple outward. The legacy she leaves is one of progress, integrity, and hope. Veleter, throughout her career, has often spoken about the importance of getting off the dance floor. It was, as she says, her role as a leader to get to the balcony to see the bigger picture. As she retires, it is time to leave both the balcony and the dance floor behind. Now, the stage is hers to set. Whether it is traveling, writing, or pursuing new passions, retirement is her front-row seat to a life of her own design. I thank Veleter on behalf of a grateful Congress, a grateful district, and a grateful Nation. I thank her for her vision, virtue, and vigilance. We are better because of her sacrifice and for her unwavering commitment to see a nation not for what it was but for what it could be. We wish Veleter all the best in her well-earned retirement with full confidence that her impact on this institution and the Nation it serves will live on for generations to come. ____________________