[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 161 (Wednesday, November 13, 2013)]
[Senate]
[Page S7999]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     NORTHWEST NAZARENE UNIVERSITY

 Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, on behalf of myself and Senator 
Crapo, I wish to recognize the 100-year anniversary of Northwest 
Nazarene University in the city of Nampa in the great State of Idaho.
  On September 13, 1913, this education institution began as an 
elementary school--the Idaho Holiness School. With a strong and 
unstoppable vision for the future, the founders quickly developed it 
into a secondary school and then a university. Highly respected in the 
community and, indeed, all across the great State of Idaho and in 
several other States in the region, Northwest Nazarene University has 
conferred degrees upon thousands of college graduates since 1917.
  Dr. David Alexander, who began his association with NNU as a member 
of the faculty and in 2008 became its 12th president, continues to 
carry out the early vision of growth, excellence and the Great 
Commission. The university offers a world-class, multi-discipline 
education, which now serves more than 2,000 undergraduate and graduate 
students; more than 6,000 continuing education students; and 2,300 high 
school students through its concurrent credit program. On its 90-acre 
campus in Nampa, 60 education disciplines are offered as well as 11 
graduate-level programs. The university also offers programs of study 
in other Idaho cities including nearby Boise, Twin Falls and Idaho 
Falls, and works in cooperation with education programs in 10 
countries.
  NNU, a nonprofit Christian school, is affiliated with the Church of 
the Nazarene and is one of the premiere universities in our State. 
Through education and spiritual development, students become leaders in 
business, public service, education and in faith-based careers. At NNU, 
they have become students of scholarship, strong in character and 
robust contributors to their communities.
  As Governor, Lieutenant Governor and State Senator, I have had a long 
and good working relationship with NNU, which I tremendously value. I 
mark their achievements and continued growth as terrific highlights for 
the Treasure Valley and the State of Idaho. Their commitment to their 
original vision and the foundations of their beliefs as they recognize 
changing times has made NNU an institution of stability and a vital 
resource for Idahoans.
  I remember well participating in the dedication of the Thomas Family 
Health and Science Center, which further moves NNU into the ranks of a 
competitive university with state-of-the-art laboratories and 
researchers. In addition, I am proud to have had their participation on 
the Nursing Task Force, which I initiated as governor, and which 
continues to make a significant impact on reducing the shortage of 
nurses in Idaho and beyond.
  For 100 years, Northwest Nazarene University has proved itself a 
strong asset to our community and state. It is a proverbial shining 
light, making a positive difference on its campus, in nearby 
neighborhoods and across oceans. We are very proud to have this 
institution serving our young people and those continually updating 
their skills and education. Our country stands stronger because NNU 
goes the extra mile, perseveres and stays the course.
  May God bless Northwest Nazarene University with another 100 years of 
being a top-rated institution of higher learning.

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