[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 26 (Wednesday, February 12, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E200]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   STUDENTS IN FREE ENTERPRISE (SIFE)

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. ROY BLUNT

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 11, 2003

  Mr. BLUNT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the commendable 
work of the Students in Free Enterprise or SIFE. This international 
nonprofit organization, headquartered in Springfield, Missouri, was 
highlighted in a Wall Street Journal article on January 14, 2003, by 
Carol Hymowitz titled, ``Independent Program Puts College Students On 
Leadership Paths.''
  SIFE has been championing our free market system and changing the 
outlook of promising young business professionals and entrepreneurs for 
nearly a quarter century. Missouri's 7th Congressional District is not 
only the home of Drury University, 2001 National SIFE Champion, but 
eight other preeminent SIFE chapters.
  As a former university president and teacher, I have seen firsthand 
the practical work experience and self confidence collegians gain from 
SIFE's leadership training and business competitions. These regional, 
national and international peer contests simulate the competitive 
nature of today's business environment while creating a risk-free 
learning atmosphere for the students.
  SIFE teaches college students that they have the potential to change 
the world. In today's global economy, it is no wonder more than 500 
schools overseas have Joined the 797 SIFE chapters nationwide. As the 
Journal article detailed, SIFE allows students to put their untested 
business skills through rigorous opportunities like teaching school 
children about business concepts and going overseas to teach remote 
villages about the prosperity of free enterprise.
  In keeping with the goal of acclimating students to the real business 
world, the SIFE chapter at my own alma mater, Southwest Baptist 
University, has held events such as resume workshops, financial 
planning seminars and mentoring programs. More than two decades ago, 
``March Mania'' was created to teach public school children about free 
enterprise. SIFE team members teach the students lessons about supply 
and demand, international trade and consumer behavior. These 
experiences, coupled with the business competitions and training 
opportunities, not only teach young adults necessary business 
principles, but also demonstrate the importance of mentoring the next 
generation of business professionals.
  Mr. Speaker, I'm proud of the investment SIFE continues to make in 
young people, and I'm proud they Join me in calling Missouri's 7th 
Congressional District home.

                          ____________________