Washington, D.C. — Malaria No More today hosted a Congressional Breakfast to recognize American innovators whose leadership is accelerating progress against malaria and unlocking economic growth in the United States and worldwide. The event on Capitol Hill brought together Congressional leaders, private-sector partners, and the malaria community to honor institutions and individuals who are driving scientific, medical, and technological breakthroughs that equip communities with life-saving tools and help speed the elimination of the disease. 

Malaria No More honored Representative Mario Díaz-Balart, Chair of the Subcommittee on National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP) of the House Committee on Appropriations, and Representative Lois Frankel, Ranking Member of the NSRP Subcommittee, with the Malaria Action Award for their work as bipartisan champions of U.S. leadership in the fight against malaria. 

“I’m proud of my track record advancing global health initiatives, including efforts to combat malaria,” said Representative Díaz-Balart (R-FL), who accepted his award in abstentia. “I have supported responsible international health programs that strengthen the fight against diseases like malaria and help save lives. I am grateful and honored to be recognized for this critical work and remain committed to continuing these lifesaving efforts, all while advancing the national security interests of the United States.” 

Representative Frankel (D-FL) added, “U.S. progress in the fight against malaria reflects sustained U.S. leadership and bipartisan commitment. Continued support for innovation ensures we protect hard-won gains and deliver impact for families around the world.” 

Speakers highlighted how U.S.-led innovation — from next-generation medicines and vaccines to new vector-control tools — are reshaping the fight against malaria and creating a path to eliminating the disease. Delivering remarks were Representative Ami Bera (D-CA), Co-Chair of the Congressional Malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) Caucus; Representative Bryan Steil (R-WI); Fisk Johnson, Ph.D., Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SC Johnson & Son; and Dr. William (Bill) Steiger, CEO of Malaria No More. 

“American ingenuity is powering breakthroughs that save lives and open the door to malaria elimination,” said Representative Bera (D-CA). “When Congress and innovators work together, the results are transformative.” 

“Private-sector leadership has a vital role to play,” said Dr. Fisk Johnson. “By advancing new technologies, including innovations like SC Johnson’s Guardian™ spatial repellent, and partnering with global programs, American companies can help turn scientific progress into real-world impact.” 

“U.S. ingenuity, backed by sustained commitment, is driving breakthroughs that save lives and move us closer to eliminating malaria,” said Representative Steil, whose congressional district includes SC Johnson’s headquarters in Racine, Wisconsin. “I’m proud to represent great American innovators, like SC Johnson. When policymakers and innovators work together, the results are significant — strengthening economic opportunity and quality of life in states like Wisconsin while improving stability and health outcomes worldwide.” 

“As we celebrate 20 years of impact, Malaria No More is proud to convene leaders who prove that innovation and partnership can change the trajectory of malaria,” said Dr. Steiger. “This moment underscores what’s possible when the United States leads with science, collaboration, and commitment.” 

Malaria No More’s 20th anniversary marks two decades of mobilizing political will, resources, and innovation to help drive historic progress against malaria — saving millions of lives and demonstrating the power of U.S. leadership in global health.