[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 19 (Wednesday, February 6, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E120]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING MS. BETTYE BANKS

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 6, 2008

  Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to 
mark the retirement and celebrate the career of a true community 
leader, Ms. Bettye Banks. This year will mark 30 years of her 
outstanding service with Consumer Credit Counseling of Greater Dallas, 
with whom she has dedicated her professional career to providing 
financial education to citizens of North Texas.
  Ms. Banks began her career as a secretary with Consumer Credit 
Counseling of Dallas in 1978. Her work ethic, diligence, and intellect 
allowed her to easily move up through the ranks, serving as office 
manager and counselor, among other positions.
  In 1990, Ms. Banks singlehandedly created the education program, 
aimed at teaching financial wellness and literacy. Today, Ms. Banks is 
the senior vice-president for Consumer Counseling of Dallas and 
responsible for overseeing the financial wellness initiatives of the 
Education Department. With her vision and leadership, the department 
has also grown to include 41 individual presentations on money and 
credit related topics. Ms. Banks has truly been an asset to the 
department and has left a lasting impression on its growth and impact 
in the community.
  In a true testament to her spirit, while working full time at CCCS 
Dallas, she completed her bachelor's degree in applied business 
practice. She has also earned professional certification as a Consumer 
Credit Counselor, Certified Financial Counseling Executive and Housing 
Counselor.
  Among her many accomplishments, Ms. Banks has authored a series of 
consumer-finance workbooks and taught over 3,000 seminars and 
workshops. Her reputation as an expert in the fields has generated 
contributions in multiple publications, including Today's Dallas Woman 
and Dallas Family. She has appeared on CBS, NBC and ABC and is sought 
out as a conference speaker on the topics of financial wellness.
  Additionally, Ms. Banks is an active community leader, serving on the 
boards of the Greater Dallas Rotary Club, the Dallas Legal Roundtable, 
and Friends of Consumer Freedom, among others. She has been a member of 
numerous local organizations including the North Texas Affordable 
Housing Coalition, Family Financial Advisory Council and the Dallas 
Downtown Rotary.
  There is no doubt that Ms. Banks has generated a monumental legacy at 
CCCS Dallas. Through her drive and fortitude, she has undoubtedly 
elevated the organization, and her leadership will be missed. At this 
milestone in her life, I would like to take the time to commend her for 
her commitment to the community and education. I extend my best wishes 
for her retirement and thank her for her invaluable friendship.

                          ____________________