[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E141]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING JUSTIN CLOUD 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 Justin Cloud, a distinguished 
community leader, chief engineer, and nonprofit executive whose work 
has significantly advanced education, workforce development, and youth 
empowerment across Central Florida.
  He currently serves as the executive director and founder of The 
Cloud Family Foundation, a Florida-based nonprofit organization 
dedicated to preparing students for successful careers through academic 
enrichment, mentorship, and exposure to STEM and professional pathways. 
Under his leadership, the foundation has launched and expanded several 
impactful initiatives, including the Level-Up Brother Program, an 
immersive cohort-based experience designed to equip high school young 
men with life skills, career readiness training, mentorship, and 
college exposure. What began as a single-day event in Central Florida 
has grown into a multi-week program serving students across multiple 
Florida counties. The foundation also administers annual scholarships, 
teacher grants, and community-based educational programs that directly 
support Florida students and educators.
  In addition to his philanthropic work, Mr. Cloud serves as a chief 
engineer, bringing extensive experience supporting advanced technology 
and national defense programs while remaining deeply committed to 
community service within Florida. He actively leverages his 
professional expertise to build bridges between industry, education, 
and community organizations throughout the state.
  Mr. Cloud is also the president of a Florida-based alumni chapter of 
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., where he has led initiatives focused 
on scholarship fundraising, civic engagement, and service projects 
benefiting underserved communities across Florida.
  Through his leadership, service, and dedication, Justin E. Cloud 
continues to make a lasting impact on Florida's communities by 
empowering the next generation and expanding access to opportunity.

                          ____________________