[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 54 (Tuesday, March 23, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E290]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING THE LIFE AND CAREER OF HEATHER SCHAFE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BILL PASCRELL, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 23, 2021

  Mr. PASCRELL. Madam Speaker, I rise to pay my respects to Ms. Heather 
Schafer, former Chief Executive Officer of the National Volunteer Fire 
Council (NVFC). She passed away unexpectedly on March 15, 2021.
  Celebrating its 45th year of service, the NVFC is the leading 
nonprofit association representing the interests of the volunteer fire, 
EMS, and rescue services. Ms. Schafer began her career with the NVFC in 
1993, and within one year of service became the NVFC's Executive 
Director and CEO.
  Madam Speaker, I know you are well aware of my passion for supporting 
our firefighters and emergency services personnel. They are our first 
responders to all disasters. They face daunting challenges which 
require high levels of training and specialized equipment.
  They need strong voices at the local, state, and national levels to 
ensure that their needs are addressed by government officials. Heather 
Schafer provided such a voice, always advocating forcefully for our 
volunteer firefighters. Her passion for nonprofit work led her to the 
NVFC and her bold leadership and vision grew the organization and 
advanced the interests of the volunteer fire service and the health and 
safety of its members.
  As we celebrate National Women's History Month, let us remember women 
like Ms. Schafer who serve as role models for young women seeking 
careers in professions traditionally occupied by their male 
counterparts. The fire and emergency services is one such profession.
  Ms. Schafer leaves behind a legacy of great accomplishment over her 
27 years of steadfast service managing the NVFC. And her contribution 
to a more equitable society for women and all Americans is surely among 
her greatest achievements.
  On behalf of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, I extend my 
deepest sympathies to Ms. Schafer's family, friends, and staff for the 
loss of a remarkable and talented leader of our nation's volunteer fire 
and emergency services.

                          ____________________