[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 34 (Thursday, March 21, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E393-E394]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       A TRIBUTE TO DORITA CLARKE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 20, 2002

  Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Dorita Clarke in 
recognition of her commitment and dedication to higher education 
opportunities in New York City.
  Donita is a very active member of the community. Along with a full 
time job with the Department of Transportation, Dorita has served as 
the New York State Committee Woman for the 22th Assembly District since 
1965. In 1997, she co-founded the ``You Can Go to College Committee'' 
where she continues to serve as the Executive Director. This 
organization prepares ninth through twelfth grade students to take the 
SAT's, assists seniors through the application and financial aid 
process, and provides workshops on college life. In addition, she 
arranges college visits to New York area colleges and tours of some 
Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Many of the students who 
have worked with the ``You Can Go to College Committee'' have enjoyed 
an easier adjustment to college life and maintained at least a 3.0 GPA. 
Once in the program and attending a college, the Committee continues to 
track students' progress and periodically sends care packages. Since 
the inception of this tremendous program, over 1,000 students have 
participated.
  In addition, Ms. Clarke is affiliated with several other 
organizations such as the New York State Fraternal Order of Police, 
Chapter #93; United Democratic Club--Executive Board; Democratic 
National Committee; Key Women of America. Inc.; and York College 
Advisory Board.
  Mr. Speaker, Ms. Clarke has dedicated her life to giving youth in 
Brooklyn and throughout New York City the opportunity to excel in 
higher education. As such, she is more than worthy of receiving our 
recognition and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly 
remarkable woman.

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