[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 117 (Tuesday, September 11, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1628]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  TRIBUTE TO ROBERTA ``ROBBIE'' RADER

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. ROY BLUNT

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 11, 2001

  Mr. BLUNT. Mr. Speaker, all too often in the news, the only young 
people we hear about are those who are in trouble for one reason or 
another. It is an honor today to rise and share with my Colleagues 
information about an outstanding young woman in my district who 
demonstrates exemplary character and leadership skills in her Southwest 
Missouri school and community.
  This exceptional young leader is Roberta Rader, or ``Robbie'' as 
everyone in Mount Vernon, Missouri knows her. In many ways she is just 
a typical teenager in her senior year at Mount Vernon High School. But 
at the same time, this typical teen is doing extraordinary things. 
Robbie is active in Student Council where she serves as the Community 
Service Chair. Because of her personal commitment she has helped build 
houses through Habitat For Humanity and has volunteered at various 
shelters for the underprivileged in the community. Robbie also serves 
as President of her school's National Honor Society and was on the 
three-person team from Mt. Vernon that captured the state Future 
Farmers of America forestry championship this year. To further 
demonstrate that she is a well rounded person, Robbie has lettered for 
two years on the school's track team, is a district champion in hurdles 
and will be co-valedictorian of her Senior class next spring.
  Such a rich menu of accomplishments has not gone unnoticed at the 
national level. Robbie was just chosen to be the Co-Chair of the 
Executive Board of the National Association of Student Councils, a 
position in which she represents seven states. As a member of the 
national board, she also participates in setting national goals for 
student councils and directing those activities as co-chair.
  It is clear that this young lady is motivated and focused. Part of 
her commitment is seen in a personal habit of keeping a list of her 
goals with her everywhere she goes. Robbie has to update the list every 
six months! Our country would benefit if more could achieve their goals 
as quickly and stay as committed and focused as Miss Rader.
  Robbie has benefitted from a supportive family and caring teachers 
who have encouraged and guided her along the path of learning and 
achievement. Robbie continues to work relentlessly toward her goals, 
earning the respect of classmates and teachers. It is a testament to 
the strength of her character that despite all of her accomplishments, 
her teachers still praise her as ``humble.''
  Robbie Rader is leadership in action. It is a comfort to know that 
young people such as Robbie are preparing themselves today to our 
future leaders. I know that my Colleagues join me in commending Robbie 
for her national office and her commitment to excellence in her 
personal life.

                          ____________________