CELEBRATING THE 75TH BIRTHDAY OF GLADYS DIJI

On 2025-03-18, Representative Timothy M. Kennedy (D-NY-26) delivered a floor speech titled "CELEBRATING THE 75TH BIRTHDAY OF GLADYS DIJI" in the House. The speech addressed healthcare.

CELEBRATING THE 75TH BIRTHDAY OF GLADYS DIJI

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 50 (Tuesday, March 18, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 50 (Tuesday, March 18, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E226-E227] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CELEBRATING THE 75TH BIRTHDAY OF GLADYS DIJI ______ HON. TIMOTHY M. KENNEDY of new york in the house of representatives Tuesday, March 18, 2025 Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the 75th birthday of Ms. Gladys Diji, who is a shining example of resilience, grace, and unwavering dedication to her family, community, and profession. Her life's journey has been dedicated to bettering the lives of those around her. Born on February 14, 1950, in Clarion, Pennsylvania, Ms. Diji has spent a lifetime inspiring others with her strength and compassion. She is the proud mother of three daughters and one stepson, and the cherished grandmother of twelve grandchildren, eighteen great- grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. Beyond her impressive professional and community contributions, Ms. Diji is known for her deep love of family and her passion for hosting family gatherings. Her matriarchal role is the cornerstone of her family's unity, and her wisdom continues to guide them across five generations. A registered professional nurse and clinical nursing instructor, Ms. Diji's career is a testament to her love of healthcare and education. She earned her Master of Science degree in Community Health Nursing from D'Youville University in Buffalo, New York, and has served in numerous roles, including as an adjunct clinical professor at D'Youville University. Throughout her career, she has impacted the lives of many through her work in mental health, substance abuse, and chronic illness care, as well as her contributions to nursing education. In her retirement, she also served as a Community Liaison for my office in the New York State Senate, where she helped the constituents of the 63rd Senate District with various issues they were facing and attended many community events and meetings as my representative. Ms. Diji's dedication to community service is equally impressive. She has served on [[Page E227]] boards, supported initiatives for cultural diversity, and been an active member of organizations such as the National Black Nurses Association and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Ms. Gladys Diji, a woman of poise and resilience, whose influence extends to her beloved family and community. On this milestone birthday, we celebrate her extraordinary life, her enduring legacy, and the profound impact she has made on all who know her. ____________________