[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 91 (Thursday, June 9, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E868]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING THE LIFE OF VIVIAN HICKEY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. CHERI BUSTOS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, June 9, 2016

  Mrs. BUSTOS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy 
of Vivian Hickey, who passed away on April 28, 2016 at the age of 100. 
She will be greatly missed by the Rockford community after influencing 
so many lives during her many years of service to the State of 
Illinois.
  As a member of the Illinois Board of Higher Education, the original 
Rock Valley College's Board of Trustees, and the Illinois State Senate, 
Vivian was an icon and force in Rockford politics and public education. 
She was first appointed to the Illinois Senate to fill the 34th 
District seat following the death of Betty Ann Keegan in 1974, sparking 
the tradition of what soon became known as ``The Woman's Seat'' in 
Rockford. Vivian went on to serve one full term in that role, survived 
a fight against cancer, and became known as an impassioned leader in 
Illinois and an independent fighter for women and families. Vivian was 
a true inspiration for many people, whose passion and dedication made 
her a uniting force within our region.
  Mr. Speaker, I am grateful for Vivian's contributions and service to 
our community, and my thoughts and prayers are with her friends and 
family during this difficult time.

                          ____________________