[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 90 (Wednesday, July 13, 1994)]
[Senate]
[Page S]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: July 13, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
           TRIBUTE TO THE RETIREMENT OF VICTOR PHILLIPS POOLE

 Mr. SHELBY. Mr. President, I rise today to honor Victor 
Phillips Poole on the occasion of his retirement. For 30 years, Victor 
has been a member of Alabama's State Board of Education, an elected 
body that serves as trustee for the State's kindergarten-twelfth grade 
system as well as Alabama's 2-year colleges. Most likely, no one else 
in the State has affected the lives of more people in Alabama than 
Victor. His main concern has always been the improvement of Alabama's 
public education system.
  Victor was born in Greene County, located in one of Alabama's poorest 
regions also referred to as the Black Belt. Here he developed the basis 
for his strong commitment to public education. His dedication is based 
in his belief that all people in the State, no matter their race or 
gender, have the right to an education.
  Victor attended high school in Hale County, just across the river 
from Greene County. After high school he went on to graduate from the 
University of Alabama. Victor has come to the aid of the University 
several times over the years such as chairing the committee to 
establish a medical center in Tuscaloosa and helping to locate the 
College of Community Health Sciences on the University's campus.
  In 1963, then Governor George Wallace first appointed Victor to the 
newly established State Board of Education. Victor continued to be 
reappointed by Governors Lurleen Wallace and Albert Brewer. In 1970, 
the Alabama State Constitution was changed and called for the trustees 
of the Board of Education to be elected. Since that time Victor has 
continued to be elected by the people of his district, even with the 
1980 redrawing of districts making Victor's district the largest in the 
State.
  Victor and his wife, Madie Irene Howell, live in Moundville, AL, 
where he is currently the chief executive officer for the Bank of 
Moundville. The Pooles and their three sons are active in every aspect 
of community life in Hale County, and their oldest son, Phil, is a 
member of the Alabama House of Representatives.
  Mr. President, Victor Poole has been a dedicated servant to the 
education system in the State of Alabama for over 30 years. His 
lifetime commitment of his community and to our State is an example to 
us all.

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