[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 183 (Tuesday, December 8, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2903]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         RECOGNIZING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF BARBARA DEE BRADFORD

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                        HON. MICHAEL C. BURGESS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 8, 2009

  Mr. BURGESS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Barbara 
Dee Bradford. After 21 years, Barbie, as she is warmly known by friends 
and coworkers, is retiring from her post as Director of the Learning 
Center at the University of North Texas in Denton, Texas.
  Barbie began her career at UNT in 1988 as a counselor in the 
Counseling and Testing Center, and has spent her entire career at UNT 
dedicated to student success and learning. In 1998 she created the 
Learning Center and has served as its only Director. Under her 
leadership, the Center has grown from an office with only one full-time 
employee and a handful of student workers to one that has seven full-
time staff, several graduate assistants, and hundreds of student 
workers.
  Barbie implemented Supplemental Instruction at UNT, a program where 
students who have recently completed a course return in future 
semesters and serve as study session tutors for those in the class. 
This successful program has helped improve the grades of thousands of 
students at UNT. Today, the Volunteer Tutor program thrives, and 
hundreds of students volunteer their time to assist other students.
  Barbie has devoted time, even on weekends, to assist parents with 
their child's transition to UNT. For ten years, she has delivered a 
presentation to parents at each summer orientation session. Barbie uses 
personal examples to help parents feel at ease. Over the years, she has 
received numerous phone calls from parents and had students show up on 
her door. In all those situations, Barbie has welcomed the opportunity 
to be of assistance to the student, and the family.
  Barbie has mentored hundreds of students, graduate students and staff 
members. Whether the students worked in her office or appeared at her 
door, she always has taken time to provide guidance and lend an ear. 
All who have worked for Barbie hold her in the highest regard.
  Barbie is a walking example of a lifelong learner and exemplifies 
that to all with whom she comes in contact, which has allowed her to 
positively influence the lives of thousands of students over her 21 
years at UNT. As a proud alumnus, I appreciate her dedication in 
support of their academic success as they build the foundations for 
their future.
  Madam Speaker, it is with great honor that I rise today and recognize 
Barbie Bradford for her years of dedication and selfless service to the 
University of North Texas. I am proud to represent her and UNT in the 
United States Congress.

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