[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)]
[House]
[Page H4686]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      RECOGNIZING UNIVERSITY AT BUFFALO PRESIDENT SATISH TRIPATHI

  (Mr. Kennedy of New York was recognized to address the House for 5 
minutes.)
  Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of 
an extraordinary leader, educator, and public servant whose vision has 
transformed the University at Buffalo and our entire community.
  After 15 years as president of UB, Dr. Satish Tripathi is concluding 
a remarkable chapter of service defined by innovation, collaboration, 
and an unwavering commitment to academic excellence.
  During his tenure, the University at Buffalo has reached new heights. 
Enrollment has grown to nearly 30,000 students. Flourishing scientific 
research has positioned UB among the Nation's premier public research 
institutions, and UB has strengthened its role as an engine of economic 
opportunity, helping to launch and nurture hundreds of local startup 
companies.
  UB is attracting world-class faculty and empowering the next 
generation of innovators, scientists, engineers, and healthcare 
professionals.
  Under Dr. Tripathi's leadership, the medical school found a new home 
on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, strengthening the connection 
between higher education, healthcare, and the revitalization of our 
great city.
  UB has become a cornerstone of New York's Empire AI initiative, 
ensuring that western New York sits at the forefront of AI innovation.
  Yet, Mr. Speaker, if you ask Dr. Tripathi about these extraordinary 
accomplishments, he is quick to credit the students, faculty, staff, 
alumni, and community partners who have helped make them possible.
  That humility has long been one of his defining qualities. His 
leadership has never been about personal recognition. It has always 
been about building an institution that empowers others to succeed.
  He will continue serving UB as a researcher and educator, focused on 
advancing the ethical development of artificial intelligence and 
mentoring the next generation of scholars. The University at Buffalo, 
western New York, and our Nation are stronger because of Dr. Tripathi's 
leadership. His legacy will be measured in the lives he has changed and 
the brighter future he has helped create with generations of students.
  On behalf of a grateful community, State, and Nation, I thank Dr. 
Satish Tripathi for his extraordinary service, congratulate him on an 
exceptional presidency, and wish him continued success as he begins 
this next chapter.

  Godspeed to Dr. Tripathi.


           celebrating 50th anniversary of the belle center.

  Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a 
remarkable milestone for western New York: The 50th anniversary of The 
Belle Center in Buffalo, New York.
  For one-half of a century, The Belle Center has been a place where 
every child has been welcomed, every family is valued, and every family 
is given the opportunity to thrive.
  Under the exceptional leadership of Executive Director Lucy 
Candelario and her dedicated team, The Belle Center has continually 
evolved to meet the changing needs of Buffalo's west side. Through 
early childhood education, after-school programing, workforce 
development, and services for families and seniors, The Belle Center 
has remained steadfast in its mission to meet Buffalonians where they 
are and provide the support they need to build brighter futures.
  As our neighborhoods have grown more diverse and new challenges have 
emerged, the center has answered the call by expanding educational 
opportunities, welcoming new Americans through English language 
learning, supporting working families, and celebrating the rich 
cultures that make our community stronger.
  As we celebrate this golden anniversary, we also celebrate the 
countless staff members, volunteers, and community partners whose 
dedication has transformed lives and strengthened the City of Good 
Neighbors.
  Today, I join western New York in congratulating The Belle Center on 
50 extraordinary years of service. May it continue to uplift our 
neighbors, strengthen our community, and carry forward Father Belle's 
enduring legacy of compassion and service for generations to come.
  I congratulate The Belle Center.

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