[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 145 (Friday, October 24, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2083]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




IN HONOR OF THE 25 ANNIVERSARY OF THE SPANISH SPEAKING PROGRAM OF KEAN 
                               UNIVERSITY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROBERT MENENDEZ

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 24, 1997

  Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an 
outstanding educational program, the Spanish speaking program of Kean 
University--which has served the needs of the growing population of 
adults in the community. On October 25, 1997, the Spanish speaking 
program of Kean University will celebrate its 25th anniversary with a 
dinner-dance celebration at Kean University, college center cafeteria 
in New Jersey.
  The Spanish speaking program was founded in 1972 to respond to the 
needs of Hispanic students who needed to achieve greater proficiency in 
English to pursue a college education. The program has played a very 
important role in the academic and personal development of the Hispanic 
student population and the Hispanic community itself. The Spanish 
speaking program has provided a clear pathway for students to progress 
into the regular curriculum.
  The Spanish speaking program is administered by a dedicated group of 
professionals under the guidance of Dr. Ronald L. Applbaum, president, 
and Dr. Orlando Edreira, director. For two decades, this program has 
been meeting the needs of limited English proficient Hispanics. This 
program was the first of its kind in U.S. higher education, and it has 
provided opportunity and access to more than 5,000 students in its 25-
year history. The program provides an environment for the fostering of 
pride and reward for personal dedication and accomplishment.
  It is an honor and a pleasure to be part of this celebration and also 
be able to recognize the dedication and commitment of the Spanish 
speaking program. Communication is now more important than ever. Being 
able to know more than one language is no longer a privilege, but a 
necessity. I am certain that my colleagues will join me in paying 
tribute to this remarkable program.

                          ____________________