[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 202 (Wednesday, December 3, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1144]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   RECOGNIZING MRS. EMILY MONDSCHEIN

                                  _____
                                 

                        HON. TIMOTHY M. KENNEDY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 3, 2025

  Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Mrs. Emily 
Mondschein, the Executive Director of Gigi's Playhouse. Emily is a 
woman whose compassion and advocacy can be seen throughout Western New 
York, through parents and children of all ages, and far beyond the 
walls of GiGi's Playhouse.
  As the proud mother of two sons, Samuel and Paul, Mrs. Mondschein, 
alongside her husband, Mr. Will Mondschein, set out on a mission to 
ensure that individuals with Down syndrome are treated with equality 
and respect in all areas of society. Inspired by her son, Paul, Mrs. 
Mondschein wanted to establish an organization for families and 
community members throughout Western New York to empower individuals 
with Down syndrome and increase positive awareness through educational 
programs.
  After visiting GiGi's Playhouse in Syracuse, Mrs. Mondschein was more 
inspired than ever and determined to open her own location in Western 
New York. Through GiGi's Playhouse, community members are offered one-
on-one literacy tutoring, discovery arts and science, and group music 
therapy. Each program is dedicated to helping community members with 
Down Syndrome reach their full potential.
  As we recognize the incredible service of Mrs. Emily Mondschein, let 
us not only acknowledge her dedicated career as an educational leader 
and her steadfast commitment to children in need, but also her 
unwavering advocacy for accessible and inclusive community programming 
where every individual is celebrated for who they are, providing a safe 
space for all to be heard. Mrs. Mondschein's service is a blessing, and 
we look forward to many more years of her inspired leadership.

                          ____________________