[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 196 (Thursday, November 20, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1107]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





   CELEBRATING THE 2025 SPARC HEROES AND LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD 
                                HONOREES

                                  _____
                                 

                        HON. JAMES R. WALKINSHAW

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 20, 2025

  Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize three 
outstanding honorees whose leadership, dedication, and compassion were 
celebrated at the 2025 SPARCLE Awards Celebration Gala, hosted by 
Specially Adapted Resource Centers (SPARC), an organization that plays 
an indispensable role in supporting young adults with severe and 
multiple disabilities in Northern Virginia.
  For years, SPARC has filled one of the most significant gaps in our 
social safety net by providing meaningful day programs, therapeutic 
supports, and a sense of belonging to individuals who often age out of 
the K-12 system with few options for continued care. The honorees 
recognized this year represent the very best of our community's 
commitment to inclusion, dignity, and opportunity.
  I am proud to honor and include in the Record the following honorees:

       Chair Phyllis J. Randall, recipient of the 2025 SPARC Hero 
     Award, whose steadfast leadership in Loudoun County has 
     elevated disability services, strengthened community 
     partnerships, and championed the rights and dignity of 
     residents with complex needs. Her advocacy continues to make 
     Loudoun County a more compassionate and inclusive place for 
     all.
       Ms. Jessica Burmester, recipient of the SPARC Lifetime 
     Achievement Award, whose years of service, dedication, and 
     hands-on commitment have had a direct and lasting impact on 
     SPARC's mission. Her work has improved the lives of countless 
     young adults and families, and her legacy will continue to 
     shape SPARC for years to come.
       George Washington University, honored as the 2025 Education 
     Partner, recognized for its commitment to inclusive learning, 
     community engagement, and preparing the next generation of 
     professionals and advocates who support individuals with 
     disabilities. Their partnership demonstrates the essential 
     role that higher education institutions play in advancing 
     disability inclusion.

  Mr. Speaker, these honorees embody the values of service, compassion, 
and community that define Northern Virginia. Their work strengthens 
families, uplifts neighbors, and reflects the promise of a society 
where every individual, regardless of ability, is valued and supported. 
I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Chair Phyllis Randall, 
Ms. Jessica Burmester, and George Washington University on their well-
deserved recognition.

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