HONORING COLONEL PAULETTE SCHANK AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH

HONORING COLONEL PAULETTE SCHANK AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 60 (Monday, March 30, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 60 (Monday, March 30, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E294] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING COLONEL PAULETTE SCHANK AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH _____ HON. DARREN SOTO of florida in the house of representatives Monday, March 30, 2026 Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Colonel Paulette Schank as a Distinguished Leader in Central Florida for Women's History Month. Colonel Paulette Schank served with distinction for 25 years in the United States Air Force, dedicating her career to leadership, service, and caring for others. Since retiring from military service, she has continued her lifelong commitment to improving the lives of veterans and members of her community through advocacy, healthcare, and volunteer service. As a member of Congressman Darren Soto's Veterans Advisory Board, Colonel Schank is a trusted consultant when legislation affecting veterans is considered. Her knowledge and experience help ensure that policies reflect the real needs of those who have served our nation. Colonel Schank also contributed significantly to the Friends of Fisher House's efforts, supporting outreach, education, and fundraising initiatives that helped bring the Orlando Fisher House to Lake Nona. The Fisher House now provides lodging and comfort to families whose loved ones are receiving care. A dedicated healthcare professional, Colonel Schank built a distinguished career as both a nurse anesthetist and nurse practitioner. She recently earned her doctorate from the University of Central Florida, further strengthening her commitment to improving access to quality healthcare. She also volunteers at Shepherd's Hope, a free medical clinic that serves uninsured patients in Central Florida. Her service extends to the Central Florida Red Cross, where she assists with hurricane and disaster response shelters and participates in programs supporting local veterans. She also volunteers with the Orlando VA Medical Center's animal visitation program, bringing her Shih Tzu, Wooki, to visit veterans in mental health units and the community living center each week. Colonel Schank also serves on the board of the Central Florida Veterans Memorial Park, helping ensure that more than 1,200 fallen Central Florida veterans are remembered and honored year-round. Her life of service was recognized in the book ``A Truth Worth Telling,'' where she is featured in the chapter titled ``Selflessness.'' ____________________