[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 152 (Thursday, September 24, 2026)]
[Senate]
[Pages S4983-S4984]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO FRED M. FEHSENFELD, JR.

 Mr. YOUNG. Madam President, I rise today to recognize the 
upcoming retirement of a great Hoosier, Fred M. Fehsenfeld, Jr.
  At just 29 years old, Fred became chief executive officer of the 
Heritage Group, beginning the third generation of family leadership at 
one of the Hoosier State's most innovative companies. He soon 
established an in-house research and development organization that 
helped expand the company into new industries, including specialty 
chemicals and fuels. Under his leadership, the Heritage Group evolved 
from a regional enterprise into a global leader, helping put Indiana on 
the map as a hub for innovation.
  More important than Fred's successful endeavors in business were his 
rewarding investments in talent. Throughout his career, Fred was guided 
by a simple principle: ``Bet on young people. They will surprise 
themselves.'' Guided by this philosophy, Fred helped build a culture 
rooted in trust, entrepreneurship, and community, to the benefit of 
countless employees throughout Indiana. In 2016, his daughter Amy began 
to take over leadership of the organization, establishing a rare 
fourth-generation succession for a family business. This commitment to 
building an organization designed to endure for generations epitomizes 
his belief that leadership is measured more by what one leaves behind 
for others to strengthen than what one accomplishes himself.
  Fred's contributions to the State also extend far beyond his work on 
behalf of the family business. Alongside his wife Suzie, Fred has 
demonstrated a longstanding commitment to philanthropy, contributing to 
the improvement of communities in Indianapolis, throughout Indiana, and 
even around the world. This, along with his

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mentorship of countless future leaders and service on the boards of 
organizations that strengthen Indiana's economy, environment, and civic 
life, demonstrates his lifelong dedication to service to our State.
  For these reasons and more, Fred exemplifies what it means to be a 
Hoosier. It is my honor to recognize Fred for his distinguished career 
and congratulate him as he begins his retirement.

                          ____________________