[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E140]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING DENIELLE BARNHARDT AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL 
                    FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. DARREN SOTO

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 17, 2026

  Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Denielle Barnhardt, a pastor, 
educator, and arts advocate whose work has significantly impacted 
families and students throughout Osceola County and Florida's 9th 
Congressional District.
  She is the co-founder and senior pastor of The Way Worship Church, 
where she leads alongside her husband, Jaquan, with a family-centered 
pastoral model that views the family as the prototype for the church 
and community life. Together, they are raising four beautiful children.
  In 2013, Barnhardt founded Mrs. B's Music and Performing Arts 
Training, and since 2017, she has worked intentionally to expand access 
to high-quality arts education across Osceola and Orange Counties. 
Through seasons of growth and challenge, including the COVID-19 
pandemic, she used the arts to keep families connected, students 
engaged, and communities resilient. Her efforts have led to the 
establishment of musical theater programs in schools and community 
settings, as well as strategic partnerships that connect children to 
quality arts programs and educational pathways through preparation and 
mentorship.
  Barnhardt has also served as a startup consultant, strategist, and 
curriculum developer for multiple private and micro-schools in Osceola 
County, helping to launch and strengthen innovative educational models 
rooted in excellence and community need. She currently serves as a PAX 
coordinator, facilitating and overseeing cultural exchange initiatives 
that promote global understanding among students in the United States 
and abroad. She recently launched The Hall Institute, a Bible college 
focused on theological education and leadership formation.
  With a background in the arts, Barnhardt received arts education from 
primary school through high school and has performed on world-renowned 
stages, including Radio City Music Hall, Broadway, and other major 
venues. Combined with her foundation in general education and a Master 
of Divinity in Church History, she bridges creative formation, 
historical theology, and pastoral leadership with rare 
interdisciplinary depth.
  She will soon step into the Navy Reserve Chaplaincy, expanding her 
service to support service members and their families, and continuing 
her commitment to faith, education, and community leadership in Central 
Florida.

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