[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 77 (Monday, May 9, 2022)]
[Senate]
[Page S2379]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO RYAN PFEIFER

  Mr. MARSHALL. Mr. President, I rise today to honor and recognize Ryan 
Pfeifer of Topeka, KS.
  Ryan was presented with a $25,000 Milken Educator Award at a recent 
Washburn Rural High School assembly. This award has an outstanding 
reputation in the teaching world. To some, it is known as the ``Oscars 
of Teaching.'' This award celebrates teachers' work with students and 
shines a light on their future work as educators. In addition to the 
financial award, he was given mentorship and support, along with an 
all-expenses-paid trip to a forum where other recipients come together.
  The Milken Educator Award looks to honor unrecognized teachers. It 
has teams of administrators and State education departments vetting out 
finalists for the award. Teachers are unaware they are nominated, so 
when Pfeifer was called down to the gym floor to receive the award, he 
was thrilled. Ryan has a way with his students. Students describe him 
as relatable and dedicated, which is a great reputation to hold. He 
even gave up his regular planning and advising period to provide 
additional support for students. I truly believe that he deserved this 
award. He has helped so many students live up to their potential. A 
previous award winner, Brad Nicks, said ``He's always stood out as one 
of those exceptional educators, somebody that builds really important 
relationships with students.'' I ask my colleagues to join me in 
recognizing the wonderful impact Mr. Pfeifer has had on his students 
and to honor him for this great accomplishment.

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