[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 71 (Wednesday, May 2, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E927]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND IDEALS OF NATIONAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                            HON. GENE GREEN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 1, 2007

  Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of 
House Resolution 334, which will support the goals and ideals of 
National Community College Month. This resolution was passed on May 1, 
2007 with bipartisan support.
  Not only is a college education one of the best investments a person 
can make, it is the best way to ensure our children and grandchildren 
have a promising future regardless of socioeconomic status. The typical 
college graduate earns 80 percent more than a high school graduate, and 
this can add up to about one million dollars over one's career. 
Additionally, more educated people tend to have access to better health 
care, and often enjoy a better quality of life.
  For these reasons, I am always looking for ways to improve access to 
a quality education for our area, and I have found that community 
colleges are one of the best ways to achieve this. For many years now, 
I have seen the benefits of these schools, and their collaboration with 
community partners in our area is critical. Whether it's through 
training programs or working with local businesses, community colleges 
focus on areas to make sure that their students have the components 
they need to be successful.
  I am proud that the Congress has decided to honor our country's 
community colleges, their students, governing boards, faculty, and 
staff, not only for their contributions to education and workforce 
development, but for their vital role in ensuring a brighter, stronger 
future for our country.




                          ____________________