[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 114 (Wednesday, September 2, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Page S9889]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           TRIBUTE TO DR. WILLIAM FOSTER AND THE MARCHING 100

 Mr. GRAHAM. Mr. President, as we approach a new century, I 
recognize one of the giants of the 20th century: Dr. William Foster, 
Chairman of the Music Department and Director of Bands at Florida A&M 
University in Tallahassee, Florida.
  After enriching the lives of thousands of students, and entertaining 
millions around the globe via superlative performances of The Marching 
100 band, Dr. Foster is retiring. A special tribute will be held 
honoring him in Tallahassee on September 4, 1998.
  Dr. Foster's service to Florida A&M University and the field of music 
spans half a century. His genius was in melding the varied sounds of 
musical instruments--along with unique choreography--into one of the 
most celebrated and sought-after marching bands in the world.
  With each performance, The Marching 100 band proves the axiom that 
music is an international language. And its director, Dr. Foster, is 
music's Ambassador at Large, lifting the spirits of all who heard the 
glorious sounds of this talented group and saw the high-stepping moves 
that set this band apart from all others.
  Mr. President, this is the time of year that we send our children and 
grandchildren back to school to begin another academic year. As a 
nation, we focus on the vital role of education.
  Dr. Foster personifies the finest attributes of an educator. He 
passed on knowledge to thousands, he built teamwork and instilled 
discipline, and he had fun along the way.
  The educational leadership of Dr. Foster is one of the reasons why 
Florida A&M University is ranked among America's leading institutions 
of higher learning. Last year, Florida A&M University was cited as 
``College of the Year'' by editors of TIME magazine and The Princeton 
Review.
  Mr. President, I have been honored to visit Florida A&M University on 
many occasions. I have experienced the spirit on campus, in the 
classrooms and among the greater Florida A&M University family of 
alumni, faculty, administrators, and students.
  And, I have experienced the special joy of watching and listening to 
The Marching 100 under the direction of Dr. Foster. I call on my 
colleagues in the Senate--and all those who love music--to join me in 
this tribute to an outstanding American, a gifted educator and band 
director without peer: Dr. William Foster.

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