[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 39 (Tuesday, March 5, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E212-E213]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING THE LIFE OF BETTY HOLZENDORF

                                 ______
                                 

                     HON. DEBBIE WASSERMAN SCHULTZ

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, March 5, 2024

  Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. Mr. Speaker, it is in the spirit of 
bereavement that I rise to recognize the remarkable life of former 
Florida State Senator Betty Holzendorf. As a dedicated public servant, 
community leader, and advocate for social justice, her impact on the 
city of Jacksonville and the great State of Florida and its people will 
be felt for generations to come.
  Senator Holzendorf passed away on February 29, 2024 at the age of 84.
  As a lifelong resident of Jacksonville, Senator Holzendorf dedicated 
her life to the betterment of her community. She received her 
bachelor's degree from Edward Waters University and her master's in 
educational administration from the University of North Florida, the 
latter of which has a road named after her on campus.
  As a former public school teacher and administrator at her alma 
mater, Edward Waters University, she was committed to quality education 
and began her career in public service in 1975 as an affirmative action 
officer under Jacksonville Mayor Hans Tanzler. Following several years 
of service in this role, she joined the staff of Jacksonville Mayor 
Jake Godbold as City Council liaison, where she developed the political 
skills that would catapult her into the Florida House of 
Representatives in 1988.

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  Throughout her esteemed career, Senator Holzendorf championed causes 
that uplifted the most vulnerable members of her community. Whether it 
was fighting for affordable housing, advocating for quality education, 
or promoting access to healthcare, she never wavered in her dedication 
to improving the lives of her constituents, especially children.
  Senator Holzendorf's passion for justice and equality was matched 
only by her unwavering determination to create positive change. After 
four years in the Florida House, she served with distinction in the 
Florida State Senate from 1992 to 2002, where her leadership earned her 
the respect and admiration of colleagues on both sides of the aisle.
  Beyond her legislative accomplishments, Senator Holzendorf was a 
pillar of her community, known for her kindness, compassion, and 
incredible cooking. Her impact extended far beyond the boundaries of 
Tallahassee and Jacksonville, truly touching the lives of countless 
individuals throughout Florida.
  My heart is with Senator Holzendorf's family during this time of 
mourning. May they find solace in knowing that her legacy will live on 
in the hearts and minds of all who had the privilege of knowing her, 
and may her memory be for a blessing.

                          ____________________