[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 59 (Friday, April 11, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E737]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




TRIBUTE TO RICHARD T. THOMPSON, CHANCELLOR OF OAKLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE

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                          HON. SANDER M. LEVIN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 10, 2003

  Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor a remarkable individual, 
Richard T. Thompson, Chancellor of Oakland Community College (OCC) upon 
his retirement from this outstanding five-campus institution.
  Beginning his OCC career in 1996, Mr. Thompson was a member of the 
English, Social Science and Counseling faculty at the Highland Lakes 
Campus. He also served as Academic Dean and Campus Provost at that 
campus until 1975.
  After 1975, Mr. Thompson held various positions, including Provost of 
the Orchard Ridge Campus, and College District Vice President for 
academic and student affairs in 1984. He was promoted to Vice 
Chancellor of academic affairs in 1988, and served as OCC's Interim 
Chancellor. In 1995 he was appointed Interim President of Auburn Hills 
Campus.
  On March 19, 1996, Richard T. Thompson assumed the Chancellorship of 
OCC, as its sixth chief executive officer. This appointment marked the 
first time in history of the college that an OCC academician was chosen 
to head its five-campus institution.
  Professional and community activities are also a significant part of 
Mr. Thompson's life. The Providence Hospital Community Board, the 
Educational Advisory Board, the Oakway Symphony and the Better Business 
Bureau are some examples of the wide range of interest and service he 
has provided.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Richard T. 
Thompson for his dedication and devotion to Oakland Community College, 
an outstanding institution of higher learning, and for the high quality 
of education and the inspiration he has provided for its students 
during his tenure.
  I wish Richard, and his wife, Nancy, good health and happiness in 
whatever paths they choose to take in retirement.

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