[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 64 (Tuesday, May 8, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E726]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING DR. HOWARD COHEN AND PATRICIA COHEN

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 8, 2012

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound respect and sincere 
appreciation that I rise once again to recognize two of Northwest 
Indiana's most charitable citizens, and two dear friends, Dr. Howard 
Cohen and his wife, Patricia. Throughout the years, Howard and Patti 
have been recognized many times for their contributions to the 
Northwest Indiana community. On Tuesday, May 15, 2012, Dr. and Mrs. 
Cohen will be honored by the Rotary Club of Hammond, Indiana as the 
2012 recipients of the Heinze Vocational Service Award, a recognition 
bestowed annually upon individuals exhibiting outstanding leadership 
qualities and a commitment to community service.
  It would be impossible to speak of the great contributions of Patti 
and Howard to Northwest Indiana without boasting of the immense impact 
both have had at Purdue University Calumet (PUC) in Hammond. Fittingly, 
the event at which they will be lauded for their outstanding leadership 
will take place at the university, where Howard served as Chancellor 
from 2001 until his retirement in 2011. Under Howard's leadership, 
PUC's expansion was remarkable, and his commitment to the university 
continues today. During his tenure, students at PUC witnessed the 
construction of the Academic Learning Center, as well as the 
establishment of nine centers and institutes focused on applied 
research. Student housing, which had previously not existed at PUC, was 
also added to the campus during that time. While these visible 
additions to the school are quite impressive, it is Howard's commitment 
to raising academic standards, expanding the educational curriculum, 
and exposing students to a system of instruction that translates far 
beyond the walls of a classroom that are the true testament to his 
leadership.
  Without question, Patti Cohen shares responsibility for these 
achievements and the progress that was made over the last decade. Patti 
has represented PUC on trips to universities in countries throughout 
the world including: China, Poland, Spain, Oman, and Costa Rica. She 
was also instrumental in promoting the university and creating a 
welcoming atmosphere for students, parents, and visitors. Patti also 
served on numerous committees and was active in the planning and 
hosting of many campus and community events.
  In addition to their outstanding contributions to Purdue University 
Calumet, Patti and Howard Cohen are also to be commended for their 
dedication to the entire Northwest Indiana community. With the same 
dedication, they have served the people of Northwest Indiana through 
their involvement in local organizations and their service on various 
boards. Although their efforts encompass many different aspects of 
society, all contribute to one central goal: the improvement of the 
quality of life for the people of Northwest Indiana and beyond.
  Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished 
colleagues join me in congratulating Howard and Patti Cohen on being 
named the 2012 recipients of the Heinze Vocational Service Award by the 
Rotary Club of Hammond, Indiana. Leaders in the truest sense of the 
word, their selfless commitment to their community is to be commended, 
and they are most deserving of this prestigious honor.

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