[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 75 (Thursday, June 11, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1108]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                  PAYING TRIBUTE TO DR. CHARLIE NELMS

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                          HON. DALE E. KILDEE

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 11, 1998

  Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the 
Chancellor of the University of Michigan-Flint, Dr. Charlie Nelms. Dr. 
Nelms is leaving his post at the University of Michigan-Flint to take a 
similar position with Indiana University. He is being honored by his 
colleagues at a reception on June 17 at the campus of the University of 
Michigan-Flint.
  Charlie Nelms has had a long, illustrious career educating the future 
leaders of our country. He has devoted his life to providing all 
persons the opportunity of a better life through education. Dr. Nelms 
brought his vision to the University of Michigan-Flint in 1994 and the 
University has benefited greatly from the association. During his 
tenure as Chancellor, Dr. Nelms has expanded the scholarship program, 
and opened new instructional centers in Port Huron, Owosso, Lapeer, 
Fenton, and Pontiac. He has increased the master's degree program by 
adding degrees in education, nursing and health education. Over $60 
million in gifts, grants, and land have been given to the University in 
the last four years.
  His commitment to the community has been remarkable. Dr. Nelms has 
worked diligently to partner businesses and nonprofits with the 
educational resources of the University. This partnership has proved 
advantageous to all entities. Students have gained practical 
experience, and the community has acquired the technical expertise of 
the University.
  In addition, Dr. Nelms has been personally involved in the Genesee 
Area Focus Council, the Hurley Hospital Cancer Center Advisory Board 
and the Mott Children's Health Center Board. He is a lifetime member of 
the NAACP. He has spent numerous hours speaking to youth groups about 
the importance of education.
  Dr. Nelms' personal philosophy is that every person has a 
responsibility to contribute. He practices that philosophy daily. The 
Flint community is losing a compassionate, committed leader in 
Chancellor Nelms. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to 
join me in wishing Dr. Nelms and his wife, Jeanetta, all the best as 
they embark on this new phase of their lives with Indiana University.

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