[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 68 (Monday, April 21, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E328]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MARY SELECKY

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. SUZAN K. DelBENE

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 21, 2025

  Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, alongside my colleague Rep. 
Dan Newhouse, to honor the life and legacy of Washington's former 
Secretary of Health, Mary Selecky. For over four decades, Mary 
dedicated her life and career to public health throughout Washington. 
She began her career as the administrator for the Northeast Tri County 
Health District. In 1999, she was appointed as the Secretary of Health 
by Governor Gary Locke and continued in that role under Governors Chris 
Gregoire and Jay Inslee until her retirement in 2013.
  During her tenure, Mary was instrumental in reducing smoking rates 
and increasing childhood vaccination coverage across the state. She was 
known for her commitment to preventive care and for strengthening the 
collaboration between state and local health agencies.
  Beyond her professional accomplishments, Mary was deeply connected to 
her community in Colville, Washington, where she resided for over 50 
years. Her dedication to both her local community and the broader 
public health landscape left a lasting impact on the state. Mr. 
Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mary Selecky's life 
and contributions to public health.

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