[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 152 (Thursday, November 12, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2321]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING EDWARD ALEXANDER BOUCHET FOR OUTSTANDING LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENTS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 12, 1998

  Ms. DELAURO. Mr. Speaker, the Beta Tau Boule Chapter of the Sigma Pi 
Phi Fraternity is memorializing a man whose lifetime achievements can 
only be described as inspiring. As a resident of New Haven, 
Connecticut, Edward Alexander Bouchet was both an accomplished 
physicist and educator-described as a consummate scholar, very 
knowledgeable in all areas, yet extremely modest and a person who set a 
wonderful example of politeness and graciousness for the community.
  Born in 1852, Edward Bouchet grew to be an exceptional figure in 
African American history. Bouchet's accomplishments as a leader in the 
academic achievements of African Americans are a true legacy to their 
heritage. Bouchet became not only the first African American to obtain 
a doctorate in any discipline, but one of the first six to be honored 
with a Doctorate in Physics in the Western Hemisphere and one of the 
few among many entitled to wear the Phi Beta Kappa Key.
  The countless lives which he touched as he traveled the country, were 
inspired by this remarkable man. Dr. Bouchet has been described by 
former students as the contributing factor to continue and go on to 
greater achievements in higher education. Dr. Bouchet's quiet, 
scholarly life reflects a deep devotion to teaching and good works.
  Returning to New Haven in 1916, Dr. Bouchet was laid to rest in his 
place of birth two years later. Today, I am honored to join with Paul 
McCraven and the Beta Tau Boule Chapter of the Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, 
and the many sponsors, as they commemorate the outstanding lifetime 
achievements of Doctor Edward Alexander Bouchet with the unveiling of a 
new burial monument. His lifelong dedication to education and his 
contributions to African-American history set in stone--a legacy never 
to be forgotten.

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