[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 80 (Tuesday, May 12, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E430]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING THE CAREER OF DR. JOHN S. RUTKAUSKAS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. HENRY CUELLAR

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 12, 2026

  Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the outstanding 
career of Dr. John S. Rutkauskas, Chief Executive Officer of the 
American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
  For more than 27 years, Dr. Rutkauskas has led the AAPD with a 
singular focus: ensuring that every decision is guided by one 
fundamental question: what is best for children. Under his leadership, 
the organization has become not just member-driven, but truly child-
driven, shaping the future of pediatric oral health across our Nation 
and around the world.
  Since assuming his role in 1999, Dr. Rutkauskas has strengthened the 
AAPD into a globally recognized authority, with approximately 11,000 
members and an impressive retention rate of nearly 94 percent. His 
commitment to excellence has elevated continuing education, advanced 
evidence-based guidelines, and expanded policies and best practices 
that now define pediatric dentistry and are utilized by providers, 
institutions, and policymakers worldwide.
  Dr. Rutkauskas has also played a critical role in public policy, 
establishing the Academy's first political action committee and 
increasing its presence here in Washington. Through the AAPD 
Foundation, he has helped secure vital resources to provide dental 
homes for underserved children, ensuring access to care for those who 
need it most.
  A trained clinician, educator, and executive, his career reflects a 
deep commitment to improving the lives of children, particularly those 
with complex medical needs.
  Mr. Speaker, Dr. Rutkauskas' leadership has made a lasting difference 
in the oral health and well-being of children across the globe. On 
behalf of the 28th District of Texas, I thank him for his decades of 
service and dedication.

                          ____________________