[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 53 (Tuesday, April 14, 2015)]
[House]
[Page H2163]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         ASPEN INSTITUTE PRIZE FOR COMMUNITY COLLEGE EXCELLENCE

  (Mr. KILMER asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Olympic College 
for being named a top 10 finalist for the Aspen Institute Prize for 
Community College Excellence.
  Olympic College has earned a reputation as a place that opens doors 
to opportunity. Whether creating opportunities for future healthcare 
practitioners, leading a world-class apprenticeship program with the 
Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, or the multitude of other great programs it 
provides, OC prepares folks for success in school and in life.
  This recognition from the Aspen Institute is a testament to OC's 
president, David Mitchell; to the college's talented faculty and staff; 
and, importantly, to the students. It is also evidence of the 
incredible partnerships OC has developed with local employers, with 4-
year universities, and with the community.
  The record of success is astonishing. Get this: OC has the highest 
graduation rate of any community college in the State of Washington as 
90 percent of students who enter a trades program at OC complete it, 
and 100 percent are placed in jobs.
  I am proud to represent some amazing community colleges, including 
OC, that have been proven successful in getting people ready to take 
that next step, whether that is starting a 4-year degree or finding a 
quality job. I extend to them my congratulations.

                          ____________________