[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 49 (Wednesday, March 18, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E231-E232]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    RECOGNIZING LaVON STENNIS-WILLIAMS DURING WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. DON BACON

                              of nebraska

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 18, 2026

  Mr. BACON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize a true 
example of resiliency, generosity and commitment to serving others: 
LaVon Stennis-Williams from Omaha, Nebraska.
  LaVon is a woman of many titles--attorney, author, entrepreneur, and 
mentor. But perhaps her most defining characteristic is her unwavering 
commitment to the idea that our past does not define our future, and 
that history, when preserved, can be a powerful tool for healing.
  A graduate of Creighton University with both her Bachelor's and Juris 
Doctor degrees, LaVon has spent her life building bridges. In 2012, 
drawing from her own personal journey, she founded ReConnect, Inc. This 
non-profit has served over 500 individuals, helping those currently or 
formerly incarcerated navigate the difficult transition back into 
society. Through her ``Success Prep'' curriculum, she teaches a 
philosophy that our communities desperately need: the mindset of being 
``better, not bitter.''
  But LaVon's service to Omaha doesn't stop at professional 
development. She understands that to move forward, we must also look 
back. She transformed her private doll collection into The Doll Museum 
of African-American History. This museum, which is open to the public 
free of charge, houses a collection of over 3,000 historic dolls.
  Far more than simple artifacts, these figures serve as a unique lens 
through which people can examine three centuries of Black history and 
culture. By meticulously curating this exhibit, Ms. Stennis-Williams 
offers our community--and particularly our youth--a tangible connection 
to the past.

[[Page E232]]

  Her efforts ensure that the legacy of African-American resilience, 
creativity, and heritage is not only preserved but remains a living, 
breathing part of our public education. This museum stands as a 
testament to her belief that understanding where we have been is 
essential to determining where we are going.
  Whether she is writing children's books to honor the legacy of the 
Tuskegee Airmen through her publishing house, TwoBee Publishing, or 
coaching a client toward a new career path, LaVon Stennis-Williams is a 
builder of dreams.
  LaVon Stennis-Williams has made extraordinary contributions to 
Nebraska's 2nd District and we are grateful for her tireless work in 
preserving our Nation's history while empowering its future.

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