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Floor Speech

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Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Norma Ferriz de Massaro. I have named Ms. Ferriz de Massaro as the California 4th District's Woman of the Year for Napa County because of her excellent work in our community. This honor recognizes women who have made important contribations to California's 4th Congressional District in Arts and Culture, Professional Achievement, Entrepreneurship and Innovation or Community Service.

Born in Mexico City, Ms. Ferriz de Massaro immigrated to the United States in 2007 and became a naturalized citizen in 2013. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, where she was awarded the prestigious Medalla Gabino Barreda for academic excellence. She went on to earn a master's degree in public administration with an emphasis in Nonprofit Organization Administration from the University of Washington. Ms. Ferriz de Massaro was also the recipient of the Fulbright-Garcia Robles Scholarship and the MacArthur-Ford-Hewlett Scholarship during her studies. She further expanded her expertise by earning an Associate Degree in Accounting from Napa Valley College and achieving certification as an Advanced Certified Nonprofit Accounting Professional.

Ms. Ferriz de Massaro has been a pillar of the Napa Valley community for nearly two decades. She currently serves as the Finance and Operations Director for the Up Valley Family Centers of Napa County, where she has been a dedicated staff member for the past 17 years, strengthening programs that provide vital support to local families. She has also been an active member of numerous civic and nonprofit organizations, including Soroptimist International St. Helena Sunrise, the St. Helena Star Editorial Board, the St. Helena Library Committee, the St. Helena Library Foundation, the St. Helena Multicultural Committee, and the Napa Valley Community Foundation's Community Programs and Grants Committee. Her leadership in these organizations has helped make our community more inclusive. Additionally, Ms. Ferriz de Massaro led a Girl Scout Troop in St. Helena for 12 years, mentoring Latina girls and providing them with opportunities for growth, leadership, and joy.

Her dedication to public service was recognized in 2019 when she was named St. Helena Citizen of the Year. She further deepened her engagement with community leadership as a participant in the 2020 Leadership Napa Valley program, gaining insight into the inner workings of local governance.

Ms. Ferriz de Massaro is widely known for her enthusiasm, positivity, and ability to bring people together. Whether through social media, community outreach, or personal connections, she works tirelessly to link individuals with resources, foster collaboration, and turn good ideas into great initiatives. She embodies the words of Mr. Rogers: ``Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.'' Ms. Ferriz de Massaro is one of those helpers, always ready to support others with her energy and optimism.

Beyond her professional and civic contributions, Ms. Ferriz de Massaro and her husband, Evan Massaro share a love for adventure. Each year, they embark on multi-week cycling or trekking journeys, embracing exploration both at home and abroad. Her passion for life and community shines through in everything she does.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Ms. Ferriz de Massaro for her remarkable service and dedication to our Napa Valley community. Through her leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to inclusion and empowerment, she has left an indelible impact on those around her. It is fitting and proper that I honor her here today.

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