[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 72 (Thursday, April 23, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E363-E364]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        HONORING ILENE PAPPERT ON THE OCCASION OF HER RETIREMENT

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. NICOLE MALLIOTAKIS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 23, 2026

  Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Ilene Pappert 
on the occasion of her retirement after more than 50 years of dedicated 
service to the children and families of Staten Island, including 34 
years as Director of Children's Aid Goodhue Center in New Brighton.
  For nearly five decades, Ms. Pappert has been a steadfast and 
compassionate leader, devoting her life to uplifting young people and 
strengthening Staten Island's North Shore community. A trained social 
worker, she began her journey at Goodhue in the 1970s and steadily rose 
through the ranks before assuming the role of Director in 1992. Under 
her leadership, the Goodhue Center has nourished as a haven where 
generations of children have found support, mentorship, and 
opportunity.
  Each day, Ms. Pappert could be found greeting children with warmth 
and care--whether helping with homework, tying a shoelace, or simply 
offering encouragement. Through after-school programs, summer camps, 
and family engagement initiatives, she helped create an environment 
where young people could grow academically, socially, and emotionally. 
Her leadership ensured that hundreds of children each year benefited 
from enriching programming in the arts, sciences, athletics, and 
beyond.
  Beyond her work within the center, Ms. Pappert has been a tireless 
advocate for the Goodhue campus and the surrounding community. She 
worked closely with local elected officials to secure critical funding 
for programs and played a key role in preserving more than 40 acres of 
wooded land for public use, helping to ensure that future generations 
of Staten Islanders will continue to enjoy this treasured space.
  Known for her gentle spirit and caring nature, Ms. Pappert has earned 
the admiration of colleagues, families, and community members alike. 
Her recognition as a 2026 Staten Island Advance Woman of Achievement is 
a testament to her extraordinary impact and enduring legacy.
  As she transitions into retirement, we celebrate not only her 
remarkable career, but the

[[Page E364]]

countless lives she has touched. The Goodhue Center, and all of Staten 
Island, is stronger because of her service.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Ilene Pappert 
for her lifetime of dedication and to wish her continued health, 
happiness, and fulfillment in the years ahead.

                          ____________________