[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 8 (Tuesday, January 14, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E65]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       CONGRATULATING DONALD ``DONNY'' BYNUM AS THE 2014 ALABAMA 
                       SUPERINTENDENT OF THE YEAR

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MARTHA ROBY

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 14, 2014

  Mrs. ROBY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate an exemplary 
public servant, Donald ``Donny'' Bynum, recipient of the distinguished 
2014 Alabama Superintendent of the Year award.
   A prime example of servant leadership, Superintendent Bynum has 
served for over 29 years as a teacher, coach, and administrator. He 
holds an AA Degree in School Administration plus a Master of Science in 
School Administration, both from Troy University in Dothan, and a 
Bachelor of Science in Education from Troy University.
   Prior to his tenure as the Superintendent of Dale County Schools, 
Mr. Bynum served as an Education Specialist with the Alabama Department 
of Education and in various capacities within the Dale County School 
System. Such positions included the Transportation Supervisor; 
Principal at G.W. Long Elementary School; and as the Assistant 
Principal at G.W. Long School.
   Almost one year ago, the nation watched a terrifying situation 
emerge in Dale County, Alabama. The murder of a school bus driver, 
abduction of a five-year old student, and the prolonged hostage 
situation that ensued presented a unique challenge for all levels of 
state and local government. That was especially true for Dale County 
Schools, which was faced with the murder of an employee and the 
abduction of a student, all while the need to ensure the safety and 
stability of the schools was paramount. Superintendent Bynum handled 
this challenge with strength and grace, helping lead the students, 
parents, faculty and community through the tragedy. By all accounts, 
Dale County emerged stronger and more united than ever, thanks in large 
part to Superintendent Donny Bynum's leadership in this trying time.
   Also active in the Dale County community, Superintendent Bynum is 
involved with the Dale County Children's Policy Council, Dale County 
United Way Board of Directors, School Superintendents of Alabama Board 
of Directors District III President, and he and his wife Paula, a 
retired educator, are members of the Ozark Baptist Church. He and Paula 
have two children, Mason and Elizabeth.
   Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring Donny Bynum 
as the 2014 Alabama Superintendent of the Year. His exceptional moral 
character, experience, and dedication to the Alabama school system 
render him a qualified recipient of this honor. I am grateful for 
Bynum's service and proudly recognize his contributions to the 
betterment of the great State of Alabama.

                          ____________________