[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 73 (Thursday, May 1, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E377-E378]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         VIRGINIA'S FOURTH DISTRICT WOMEN IN EXCELLENCE AWARDS

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. JENNIFER L. McCLELLAN

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 1, 2025

  Ms. McCLELLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a remarkable 
group of women whose leadership, service, and achievements have made a 
profound impact on communities across Virginia's Fourth Congressional 
District and beyond. From advancing equity in education and 
environmental justice to transforming industries through innovation and 
empowering families in need, these honorees exemplify the very best of 
civic and professional excellence. Each awardee has demonstrated an 
unwavering commitment to making a difference--lifting others as they 
lead and setting powerful examples for future generations. It is a 
privilege to celebrate their accomplishments and recognize their 
outstanding contributions.
  Businesswoman of the Year--Monika Mueller: Monika's journey to 
becoming Chief Strategy Officer is a true testament to her visionary 
leadership, relentless innovation, and deep commitment to empowering 
others. Over the past several years, she transformed multiple 
departments, drove major revenue growth, expanded international 
operations, and championed the use of AI to accelerate performance 
across the company. Beyond her business achievements, Monika mentors 
women, volunteers with organizations like IT Girls, and uplifts her 
community with the same passion and dedication she brings to her 
career. Her story is one of resilience and excellence, making a lasting 
impact.
  Non-Profit of the Year--Little Hands VA: Little Hands Virginia is 
transforming the lives of young children and their families by 
providing essential items, such as diapers, safe sleep spaces, and 
strollers, to those in need across Central Virginia. Focused on 
children from birth to age three, Little Hands alleviates financial 
stress for families, improves early childhood outcomes, and strengthens 
community support systems. In just five years, they have grown from 
serving 100 children a month to reaching over 10,000 annually through 
partnerships with 130 local organizations. Their work not only 
addresses immediate needs but also empowers parents and creates a 
foundation for lifelong success--making Little Hands a shining example 
of compassion, impact, and community leadership.
  The Women of Impact in Education Award--Kayla Diaz: Kayla Diaz has 
dedicated her career to breaking down language and cultural barriers 
for students and families at Colonial Heights Public Schools. Drawing 
from her own experiences navigating a new language and school system, 
Kayla became a tireless advocate for better support services, leading 
to the creation of a full-time interpreter position she now proudly 
holds. Beyond translation, she builds bridges, fosters understanding, 
and empowers families to thrive. A first-generation college graduate 
and proud daughter of Puerto Rico, Kayla's work embodies compassion, 
resilience, and a deep commitment to educational equity.
  Women in Action Volunteer Award--Fatima Smith: Fatima M. Smith is a 
powerful advocate, volunteer, and community leader whose work spans 
anti-violence initiatives, racial justice, and philanthropy. With over 
15 years of experience, she has championed child advocacy, led major 
legislative efforts to protect survivors, and founded Collective 365 to 
empower Black and Brown communities through accessible grant funding. 
Through her work with organizations like Side by Side and the 
Children's Advocacy Centers of Virginia, and as a mentor and speaker, 
Fatima's unwavering commitment to building safer, more inclusive 
communities makes her a true force for positive change.
  The Dr. Gladys West Women in STEM Award--Pamela Bingham: Pamela R. 
Bingham is a trailblazing environmental engineer whose 30-year career 
has bridged STEM, environmental justice (EJ), public health, and 
community empowerment. As Operations Manager for the University of 
Maryland's Health, Environmental, and Economic Justice Lab, she leads 
initiatives that support grassroots environmental justice (EJ) 
organizations and empower future generations through education and 
mentorship. From managing multi-million-dollar climate action grants to 
volunteering with Girl Scouts and the National Society of Black 
Engineers, Pamela's impact is far-reaching. Pamela remains a tireless 
advocate

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and role model, embodying leadership and a passion for justice in every 
space she serves.
  Law and Government Champion Award--Gray Montrose: Gray Montrose is a 
leader in land use, environmental law, and conservation, with over a 
decade of experience advancing cultural heritage and resource 
protection. As Deputy Director of Land Conservation at the Capital 
Region Land Conservancy and a former Assistant Attorney General, she 
has shaped major policies on environmental justice, clean air, coastal 
resilience, and community revitalization. A passionate volunteer and 
advocate, Gray has received accolades like the Greater Richmond Bar 
Foundation's Volunteer of the Year and the Sierra Club's Green Giant 
Award. Through her legal expertise, community leadership, and 
commitment to access to justice, she continues to drive positive change 
across Virginia.
  Media and Communications Champion Award--Claudia Massey: Claudia 
Massey has made a lasting impact in media and communications as a 
bestselling author, TV and radio host, columnist, and Certified Life 
and Wellness Coach. Through her podcast and documentary, Reclaiming My 
Life, she reaches audiences worldwide, sharing stories of strength and 
hope. Claudia also founded Rena's New Life Ministry, supporting 
underprivileged families through school supply drives, Secret Santa 
programs, and scholarships. She preserves gospel music through Quartet 
Unstoppable and advocates for the elderly through Patience for 
Patients, LLC. Her dedication to service and community makes her a 
deserving recipient of the Media and Communications Champion Award.

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