Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the impressive career of Dr. I. King Jordan, as he retires from his presidency of Gallaudet University.  For many years, Dr. Jordan has tirelessly served his community as an advocate and a champion for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.  For the past 18 years, he has served as the President of the only institution of higher learning serving primarily deaf and hearing impaired students. I am proud to call Dr. Jordan a friend and honored to have had the opportunity to work with him in his capacity of University President over the years.

Under Dr. Jordan’s tenure as President, Gallaudet University has seen tremendous growth, with an increased endowment and strong progress in many academic areas.  Dr. Jordan has raised awareness of the important educational contributions Gallaudet makes to the nation and the world. 

As the first deaf president of Gallaudet University, Dr. Jordan served as a role model, as well as an advocate.  One of his legacies at Gallaudet will be the President’s Fellows program, which he established to increase the number of deaf and hearing impaired faculty.  His unwavering support and belief that all individuals, regardless of disabilities, should be encouraged to fulfill their potential has inspired countless students, faculty and others in the deaf and hearing impaired community to work towards that end. 

Dr. Jordan has accomplished a great deal in his professional career.  I am pleased to have this opportunity to acknowledge his service to Gallaudet and his efforts to improve the quality of life for individuals who are deaf and hearing impaired, and individuals with disabilities.  I thank him for his dedication and I urge all of my colleagues to support H. Res. 680.