[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 105 (Tuesday, June 23, 2026)]
[House]
[Page H4133]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       RECOGNIZING ROBERT GEBBIA

  (Mr. Beyer of Virginia was recognized to address the House for 5 
minutes.)
  Mr. BEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize my friend and the current 
CEO of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Mr. Robert 
Gebbia, for his extraordinary leadership in suicide prevention and in 
recognition of his planned retirement at the end of the year. There is 
no better time to recognize Robert than in this season where we devote 
great attention to mental health awareness.
  For nearly three decades he has guided the American Foundation for 
Suicide Prevention to national prominence. Under Robert's leadership, 
AFSP has expanded to 73 chapters across the country and become the 
largest private funder of suicide prevention research in the world, 
investing nearly $100 million in lifesaving initiatives.
  He has led national awareness campaigns, educational programs, and 
Out of the Darkness Walks, providing support and hope to millions of 
individuals and families affected by suicide.
  He has also strengthened public policy and advocacy, uniting 
thousands of volunteer advocates to secure State and Federal funding 
for suicide prevention and mental health programs nationwide.
  In addition, Mr. Gebbia has served in numerous national leadership 
roles, including as a founding member of the National Council for 
Suicide Prevention, a member of the National Lifeline Advisory 
Committee, in the executive committee of the National Alliance for 
Suicide Prevention, and as past chair of the board of directors of the 
National Health Council.
  His vision and dedication have shaped suicide prevention strategies 
and initiatives across the United States.
  As we honor Robert Gebbia, it is fitting to recognize his decades of 
service, his commitment to research, advocacy, education, and his 
enduring impact on communities nationwide.
  His leadership has saved lives and strengthened the field of suicide 
prevention, leaving a legacy that will benefit generations to come.
  Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Robert on his retirement and thank him 
for his enduring service to champion the cause of preventing suicide.

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