[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 17 (Tuesday, January 30, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E92]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                    HONORING DR. TRAGIL WADE-JOHNSON

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 30, 2024

  Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Tragil 
Wade-Johnson, a distinguished entrepreneur, philanthropist, 
inspirational speaker, life coach, and author.
  Dr. Wade-Johnson has dedicated her life to the pursuit of improving 
the lives of others through education, empowerment, encouragement, and 
enlightenment. As the former caregiver and devoted sister to retired 
NBA Champion Dwyane Wade, her family's journey from tragedy to triumph 
inspired her to commit her life to supporting underprivileged youth. 
Dr. Wade-Johnson's passion for children led her to found America's Big 
Sisters Foundation which seeks to change the narrative for youth facing 
challenges similar to those she and her brother overcame.
  Establishing America's Big Sisters Foundation in 2017 as a 501(c)3 
organization, Dr. Wade-Johnson continues her mission to empower, 
encourage, and educate young ladies in underserved communities. The 
foundation's annual Empowerment Conference, uniting girls across 
backgrounds and providing strategies to overcome societal challenges, 
has grown exponentially, impacting the lives of thousands. With a city 
tour reaching multiple states, this visionary leader aspires to touch 
the lives of 2,500 girls in 2023 alone.
  Dr. Wade-Johnson's educational achievements, including degrees in 
Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education, coupled with her 
certifications in ministry, leadership, and trauma-informed care, 
underscore her commitment to lifelong learning and personal 
development.
  Her illustrious career path encompasses roles as a teacher, 
principal, and executive director, reflecting her diverse skill set and 
dedication to shaping young minds. Notably, as the Executive Director 
of Wade's World Foundation from 2006 to 2017, she led the organization 
in raising more than $3.4 million and garnered numerous awards. 
Recognitions such as the BET Humanitarian Award, Woman of Excellence, 
and the Dr. Rita Marley Ambassador Award underscore her impactful 
presence in the philanthropic landscape.
  Dr. Tragil Wade-Johnson's dedication to positive change and her 
unwavering commitment to uplifting the next generation epitomizes the 
transformative power of education, resilience, and compassionate 
leadership, inspiring us all to strive for a better future.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Dr. Tragil Wade-Johnson for 
all she has achieved, and for her commitment, dedication and service to 
our community.

                          ____________________