[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 43 (Monday, March 11, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E234]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                     RECOGNIZING JENNIFER BERNSTEIN

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                          HON. RITCHIE TORRES

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 11, 2024

  Mr. TORRES of New York. Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize the work of 
Jennifer Bernstein during this Women's History Month. Jennifer is a 
distinguished leader renowned for her exceptional management prowess 
and commitment to philanthropy within the realms of culture, education, 
and environmental advocacy. As the CEO and William C. Steere Sr. 
President of the esteemed New York Botanical Garden, she has 
orchestrated transformative initiatives that underscore her visionary 
leadership.
  Upon assuming her role in 2021, Jennifer spearheaded the launch of a 
groundbreaking master site planning process, resulting in the 
formulation of ``Branching Out: A Strategic Plan for 2024-2030.'' This 
blueprint, which was ratified by the Board of Trustees in November 
2023, charts a course for the Garden's evolution by revitalizing over 
100 acres of its property, reinforcing its stature as a global 
scientific hub, and enriching programs dedicated to empowering the 
Bronx community.
  Jennifer's deep-rooted passion for environmental conservation drew 
her to NYBG, with its rich legacy of plant research and preservation. 
Prior to her tenure at the Garden, she served as the Chief Development 
Officer and interim Chief Operations Officer at the Natural Resources 
Defense Council. At NYBG, she champions the institution's mission to 
educate others on the pivotal role of plants in sustaining a vibrant 
ecosystem and nurturing a healthier planet.
  Jennifer's dedication extends beyond her professional career, as 
evidenced by her active involvement in organizations such as the 
Women's Forum of New York and the board of the City University of New 
York's Lehman College Foundation. Earlier in her career, she honed her 
fundraising abilities in leadership roles at institutions such as Pace 
University, Playwrights Horizon, and Roundabout Theatre. Her impressive 
resume exemplifies commitment to leveraging expertise in fundraising 
and board development to effect positive change on the cultural, 
educational, and environmental landscape of New York City and beyond.
  I would like to wish her continued success at the NYBG and am excited 
to see all the projects and programs she successfully leads at the 
garden.

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