[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 33 (Friday, February 23, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E176-E177]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING ABIGAIL ELLIS AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR 
                          BLACK HISTORY MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. DARREN SOTO

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 23, 2024

  Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, Abigail Ellis is currently a registered mental 
health counselor intern, a devoted mental health advocate, a mentor, 
and an educator. She is steadfast in her commitment to effecting 
positive change in her community.
  Raised in Moore Haven, Florida, she developed a passion for community 
service early on--learning from her grandmother, Ida M.

[[Page E177]]

Ward, who was always giving back. Abigail earned a bachelor's degree in 
business and information management from Seminole State College, 
complemented by certificates in project management and human resource 
administration. Her academic journey culminated in a master's degree in 
clinical mental health counseling from Nova Southeastern University.
  In 2001, Abigail made history as the first African-American Chalo 
Nitka Pageant winner in her hometown, Moore Haven, Florida. This 
accomplishment not only showcased her resilience but also set a 
powerful precedent for others to follow. Abigail and her son, Lamar 
Allen, are deeply engaged in community service. She founded Steps 
Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit organization established in 2019 to serve 
marginalized youth in Osceola County.
  The organization was born after years of watching her mother, Darlene 
Ellis, struggle to find resources to support her brother, Samuel Ellis. 
Through this initiative, she has demonstrated a proactive and hands-on 
approach to addressing the unique challenges faced by underserved 
teens.
  In addition to her foundation, Abigail actively serves on several 
boards throughout Central Florida, focusing on mental health, community 
engagement, and youth development. She serves as a member of Chi Sigma 
Iota, the Florida Counseling Association, and the Osceola Chamber, just 
to name a few. This involvement underlines her dedication to a holistic 
approach in supporting the well-being of adolescents. Abigail Ellis 
exemplifies leadership, compassion, and expertise, utilizing her 
multifaceted role to create a positive impact on the lives of young 
people and their families.
  On February 22, 2024, Abigail Ellis was honored as a distinguished 
leader in Central Florida for Black History Month.

                          ____________________