[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 90 (Wednesday, June 6, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1224]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         SENATOR PAUL SIMON STUDY ABROAD FOUNDATION ACT OF 2007

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                           HON. RAHM EMANUEL

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 5, 2007

  Mr. EMANUEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 
1469, the Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Foundation Act of 2007, 
legislation which establishes an educational foundation to increase the 
number of students studying overseas in developing countries and non-
traditional areas.
  The Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Foundation would provide a 
national competition for student fellowships and also provide funds 
directly to colleges and universities to support their study abroad 
programs, enabling over one million American students to study abroad 
annually.
  This program was first envisioned by my friend and mentor, the late 
Senator Paul Simon. Senator Simon had a bold vision for American 
renewal driven in part by international education. His vision included 
an understanding of diverse cultures, direct exposure to foreign 
languages, and increased interaction with the peoples of other nations 
as achieved through study abroad.
  As with his other initiatives, Senator Simon worked diligently to 
bring his vision of international education to life. H.R. 1469 
continues this legacy of education and understanding by completing that 
vision.
  Senator Paul Simon had a life-long commitment and passion for 
education. As the founder and Director of the Public Policy Institute 
at Southern Illinois University, Senator Simon taught classes in 
journalism, political science, and history. As a scholar, he authored 
several books investigating the history and politics of Illinois. As a 
Senator, he was passionate about expanding educational opportunities to 
America's youth. I am proud to have worked for Senator Simon years ago, 
and I am proud that we are continuing his legacy here today.
  Mr. Speaker, this legislation provides excellent educational 
opportunities to America's students, strengthens our international 
relations, and promotes good will throughout the world. I urge my 
colleagues to join me in supporting these laudable goals by voting in 
favor of H.R. 1469, the Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Foundation Act 
of 2007.

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