[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 60 (Monday, March 30, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E295]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       RECOGNIZING SALLY WELLMAN

                                  _____
                                 

                         HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 30, 2026

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an 
extraordinary advocate, educator, and volunteer, Sally Wellman, whose 
selfless dedication and tireless service to the Deaf and Hard of 
Hearing community are truly deserving of recognition. After an 
impressive 40-year career at the Western Pennsylvania School for the 
Deaf, where she served as both a teacher and coordinator, Sally 
relocated to Florida with a clear mission: to remain an active part of 
the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) community. In December 2021, she 
joined Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services of Florida (DHHSF), and her 
presence has strengthened the organization in countless ways. Sally 
tutors students ranging from elementary school through college, helping 
each reach their full potential. She supports DHHSF in every capacity--
assisting with events, fundraisers, and innumerable behind-the-scenes 
tasks--always quietly ensuring that the work of the organization moves 
forward seamlessly. She serves as the backbone of many DHH-related 
activities in the community, yet rarely seeks recognition for her 
efforts.
  Her impact is wide-ranging; she tutors children through the Deaf 
Literacy Center, volunteers at major Deaf community events, teaches 
American Sign Language (ASL) to interpreting students at St. Petersburg 
College, and provides evening tutoring to support student success. She 
also serves on the Wine Tasting and Silent Auction fundraising 
committee, contributing her time, energy, and expertise to secure 
sponsorships, assemble auction baskets, and coordinate logistics--
efforts essential to the event's success.
  Beyond her work with DHHSF, Sally is deeply involved in her broader 
community. She volunteers with the American Cancer Society, 
coordinating the Tampa area's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk 
for Survivors, and serves on her sorority's scholarship committee, 
which awards $1.3 million annually. She participates in service 
projects such as the New Life Program for the Homeless and initiatives 
supporting Moffitt Cancer Center, demonstrating her unwavering 
commitment to helping others in every facet of her life. Sally humbly 
describes her favorite work as engaging personally with Deaf and Hard 
of Hearing individuals through tutoring and social events, yet her 
quiet leadership extends far beyond what most ever see. Her dedication, 
generosity, and passion for improving the lives of others leave a 
lasting impact on countless individuals and on the community as a 
whole.
  For her selfless service, quiet strength, and extraordinary 
commitment to empowering Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals, I am 
honored to recognize Sally Wellman as a 2026 Hero Among Us. I ask my 
colleagues to join me in honoring Sally Wellman for her remarkable 
contributions, leadership, and unwavering dedication to our community.

                          ____________________