[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 75 (Wednesday, April 29, 2026)]
[Senate]
[Page S2123]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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            RECOGNIZING BRIGHT MINDS ACADEMY OF HAYS, KANSAS

  Mr. MARSHALL. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize Bright 
Minds Academy of Hays, KS, in celebration of National Small Business 
Week and to commend its nomination as the 2026 Kansas Rural Small 
Business of the Year.
  Since 1963, National Small Business Week has highlighted the 
essential role of small businesses in driving economic growth and 
creating jobs in communities across our Nation. Every year, the U.S. 
Small Business Administration honors businesses that exemplify 
innovation, resilience, and a commitment to service.
  Founded by Nick and Andrea Felder, Bright Minds Academy has become a 
trusted provider of early childhood education for families in Hays. As 
parents themselves, they were inspired to open a childcare center to 
support children's learning and serve the needs of working families in 
their community.
  From its beginnings as a single childcare center, Bright Minds 
Academy now spans multiple locations across Hays, a reflection of its 
steady leadership. Today, it employs approximately 100 staff and is 
licensed to care for over 300 children.
  Bright Minds Academy is dedicated to providing a safe, fun, and 
nurturing environment for infants and young children. Their mission to 
provide high-quality care and education ensures that Kansas children 
have a strong foundation for success in the future.
  I now ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Bright Minds 
Academy for its service to Kansas families and communities and in 
congratulating Nick and Andrea Felder on this well-deserved 
honor.

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