[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 68 (Thursday, May 26, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: May 26, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
   HONORING DR. ALEX A. SANCHEZ ON HIS RETIREMENT AS SUPERINTENDENT/
                     PRESIDENT OF RIO HONDO COLLEGE

                                 ______


                       HON. ESTEBAN EDWARD TORRES

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 26, 1994

  Mr. TORRES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a special 
individual and dedicated educator, Dr. Alex A. Sanchez, Superintendent/
President of Rio Hondo Community College.
  Born on August 7, 1934, in Tome, NM, Dr. Sanchez early on 
demonstrated a burning desire to learn. His teachers discovered this 
potential and actively encouraged him to pursue his education. His 
drive and inspiration came from two important people, who played 
instrumental roles in attainment of his educational goals, his parents.
  Dr. Sanchez graduated from New Mexico College of Agriculture and 
Mechanic Arts in 1956 with a B.S. in agricultural education and a M.A. 
in counseling. In 1976, he received an Ed.D., with a concentration in 
higher education administration and student personnel from New Mexico 
State University at Las Cruces.
  For over 20 years, Dr. Sanchez served as administrator and/or 
professor at various academic institutions in New Mexico. As academic 
dean of the New Mexico Military Institute, Dr. Sanchez was responsible 
for the overall instructional operation of the institute. In 1979, Dr. 
Sanchez began his long-term professional career at the University of 
New Mexico, at Albuquerque, serving a dual role as professor of 
educational administration and associate provost for community 
education. In 1985, Dr. Sanchez was appointed vice president for 
community and international programs, a position he held until he 
relocated to California.
  Since 1989, as superintendent/president of Rio Hondo Community 
College, Dr. Sanchez has gained a reputation as an effective 
administrator. During his tenure, Dr. Sanchez has positively affected 
the administration and students alike, admirably leading the college 
through a very difficult fiscal period. Undeterred by tough economic 
times, Dr. Sanchez has set an extraordinary example for students who 
seek entry into higher education.
  In addition to his many duties and responsibilities at Rio Hondo, Dr. 
Sanchez has been actively involved in various civic organizations and 
has volunteered countless hours to the community. He is an active 
Rotary member, sits on the board of the Whittier Presbyterian Hospital, 
he has served on several State and Federal commissions, where he has 
contributed his expertise and knowledge.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing this 
distinguished educator, Dr. Alex A. Sanchez, and in saluting him for 
his exemplary leadership and outstanding service to Rio Hondo Community 
College and the surrounding community.

                          ____________________