[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 144 (Thursday, November 3, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2257]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                COMMEMORATION OF ROBERT H. HINCKLEY, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JIM MATHESON

                                of utah

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 2, 2005

  Mr. MATHESON. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased today to recognize the life 
and contributions of Robert H. Hinckley, Jr.
  A lifelong resident of the State of Utah, Mr. Hinckley's 88 years 
were distinguished by his optimism, energy, and a commitment to public 
service.
  Robert Hinckley, Jr. was born as the first child of Robert H. 
Hinckley Sr. and Abrelia Clarissa Seely Hinckley in Mt. Pleasant, UT, 
although he grew up in Ogden, UT and always considered that his home. 
Growing up during the Depression era, Hinckley began working in the 
family's business, Hinckley Dodge. After graduation from Ogden High 
School, he attended Stanford University and then the United States 
Military Academy from which he graduated in 1942. He married Janice 
Scowcroft, his high school sweetheart, in 1944 and described their 63 
years of marriage as the ``very best part of my life.'' During World 
War II and Korea, he was a decorated pilot earning the U.S. Air Force's 
Distinguished Flying Cross and the Bronze Star. Following a 13-year 
military career, he returned to Utah to manage the family's automobile 
business in Salt Lake City, UT. Outside of business, Hinckley loved 
horses and owned Arabian horses. He counted his greatest success as his 
four children, all of whom survive him.
  Hinckley's life demonstrated commitment to his community. In 1988, he 
built upon his father's legacy becoming board chairman of the Hinckley 
Institute of Politics at the University of Utah. In this capacity, he 
was a champion for intelligent, thoughtful, and ethical engagement in 
the public arena. He encouraged students of all political persuasions 
to approach public service and politics with a sense of purpose and 
diligence. He worked hard to create opportunities for all students, 
regardless of socioeconomic status, to have access to internship 
opportunities. He dramatically stepped up the activities of the 
Hinckley Institute and oversaw the doubling of its endowment.
  This year the Hinckley Institute of Politics is celebrating its 40th 
anniversary. Over 4,000 interns have served local, State, and Federal 
offices, interest groups, polling firms, and campaigns since 1965. The 
Hinckley Institute pioneered the Utah State legislative internship 
program, and interns now serve in critical staffing capacities during 
every general session. The Hinckley Institute internship program has 
been studied by colleges and universities across the United States. The 
Hinckley Institute sponsors the Hinckley Journal of Politics, an 
undergraduate research publication. It is one of only four 
undergraduate political science journals nationwide.
  The Hinckley Institute has influenced countless local, State, and 
Federal elected officials, party activists, lobbyists, journalists, and 
citizens. Recent studies of former Hinckley interns demonstrate an 
incredibly high degree of civic engagement, through many avenues, for 
years after graduation. The Institute has provided a needed center for 
intelligent, thoughtful, dynamic conversation about important issues, 
where students can test their beliefs and access opportunities for 
empowerment within their community and government.
  Robert Hinckley's philanthropic commitment to education and students 
extends beyond the on-going value of the Hinckley Institute of 
Politics, including the establishment and funding of scholarships at 
the University of Utah, Utah State University, Weber State University, 
and Brigham Young University. In this capacity, as well, he and his 
family have helped create a large community of educated, actively 
engaged, ethical, and interested citizens.
  In all his endeavors, Hinckley was noted for his positive outlook and 
energy. His contributions will long benefit the students and people of 
Utah. He was truly an asset to his community and will be greatly 
missed.

                          ____________________