[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 148 (Wednesday, October 29, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S11369]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            TRIBUTE TO THE HONORABLE DOROTHY COMSTOCK RILEY

 Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, today I rise to pay tribute to one 
of Michigan's most outstanding citizens, the Honorable Dorothy Comstock 
Riley. After a long and highly successful career, in which she reached 
the highest level in the Michigan judicial system, she has decided to 
retire.
  For Dorothy, success came early. Always a bright and industrious 
student, while at Wayne State University, she was recognized as the top 
graduating woman. Following her law degree from Wayne State, she 
entered private practice. In 1956, Dorothy left her practice to serve 
the community as an assistant Wayne County Friend of the Court. She 
excelled in this capacity and helped ensure the needs of families and 
children were well represented. Although she returned to private 
practice in 1968, where she helped found the firm of Riley and Roumell, 
her commitment to public service was only beginning.
  A few years later, Dorothy's outstanding abilities and dedication to 
the legal profession were again recognized. In 1972 she was appointed 
to the Wayne County Circuit Court. Four years later she received an 
appointment to the Michigan Court of Appeals, and was reelected to a 6-
year term on the Court. Soon after, the integrity and fairness she had 
shown throughout her career were recognized once more when she was 
appointed to the Michigan State Supreme Court. Dorothy's commitment to 
her profession was rewarded in 1987 when she was elected Chief Justice 
of the Michigan Supreme Court.
  During her long, distinguished career, Dorothy has belonged to many 
organizations and received numerous accolades. From honorary doctorates 
to the presidency of professional associations, each award and 
membership reflected Dorothy's commitment to integrity, honesty, and 
leadership. And while Monday evening's event represents one award among 
many, I am thankful for this opportunity to express how grateful I am 
for Dorothy's service. Throughout her career, Dorothy personified what 
is best in our legal system: a fair-minded justice with a passion for 
truth. Because of her long commitment to the State of Michigan, 
Dorothy's presence will be greatly missed.
  As she enters this new phase in her life, I want to express how great 
an impact she has had on both her profession and those individuals 
fortunate enough to know her. I wish her all the best.

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