[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 62 (Friday, April 18, 2008)]
[Senate]
[Page S3173]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           HONORING THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN GOSPEL CHORALE

 Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, I would like to take this 
opportunity to highlight a memorable trip recently taken by a group of 
students from University of Michigan. Each spring, many students head 
for warmer climates during spring break. However, the University of 
Michigan's Gospel Chorale, comprised of 40 students, spent this year's 
spring break accompanying university president Mary Sue Coleman and 
other faculty and staff to the nation of Ghana.
  During this trip, the Michigan Gospel Chorale performed at churches, 
schools, colleges and public forums, including the National Theatre and 
the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Center, where they 
were warmly received. In fact, they performed before an audience of 
more than 2,500 at Ghana's National Theatre. One of their most moving 
performances occurred when the chorale sang in the dungeons of the 
Elmina Castle, where slaves were once held captive before they were 
transported across the ocean.
  The purpose of the University's trip to Ghana was to strengthen 
existing relationships the University of Michigan has in Africa and to 
explore opportunities for new research programs and for faculty and 
student cultural exchanges. Currently, more than 120 University of 
Michigan faculty members are involved in various projects in Ghana and 
South Africa, and numerous students are taking courses or are involved 
in research activities.
  As you know, the United States has a long history with Ghana, and 
that partnership continues to grow. The people of Ghana will remember 
the efforts of the University of Michigan and the Michigan Gospel 
Chorale's visit for a long time. For the Michigan Gospel Chorale, the 
journey provided a significant global learning experience. Many of the 
students had never traveled by air or had been out of the country. I am 
sure my colleagues agree that it is important for our young people to 
have opportunities to explore, and to contribute to, our ever-expanding 
global community.
  I know my colleagues join me in commending the University of Michigan 
and the Michigan Gospel Chorale for their outstanding efforts in 
fostering goodwill between the United States and the nation of 
Ghana.

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