[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 144 (Thursday, September 22, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1341-E1342]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       HONORING THE CAREER AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF AUDRA McDONALD

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 22, 2016

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Audra McDonald as 
she is recognized with the National Medal of Arts award, presented by 
the President of the United States.
  The National Medal of Arts award is the highest award given to 
artists by the United States government, and Audra has undoubtedly 
earned the prestigious award.
  Audra's successful acting and singing career began in her hometown, 
Fresno, California. Audra grew up in California's San Joaquin Valley 
and was raised by her mother, Anna, and late father, Stanley. Her 
parents taught Audra and her sister, Allison, the importance of hard 
work and dedication. At age 9,

[[Page E1342]]

Audra joined the Good Company Players' junior company, and soon after, 
landed a role with Dan Pessano and the Good Company Players.
  Audra is a graduate of Roosevelt High's School of Arts program. She 
continued her education in the arts at Juilliard School and graduated 
in 1993. Audra has seen great success on Broadway and in the Opera. In 
addition to having won three Tony Awards by the age of 28, Audra is the 
recipient of two Grammy Awards, an Emmy Award, Drama Desk Awards and 
Outer Critics Circle Awards.
  Most notably, Audra is the recipient of six Tony Awards, making her 
the most statue-laden Tony Award winner. Audra's most recent Tony Award 
was for her incredible portrayal of Billie Holiday in Lady Day at 
Emerson's Bar and Grill.
  Not only is Audra an exceptional actress, but also a wonderful person 
who is involved in various philanthropic endeavors. She actively gives 
back to her community and seeks to improve the lives of those around 
her. Audra is a strong champion for the LGBTQ community, ensuring that 
all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, 
are treated equally.
  Audra is a source of inspiration and pride for the San Joaquin Valley 
and our entire nation. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I ask 
my colleagues to join me in recognizing Audra McDonald as she receives 
the National Medal of Arts for her lifelong career as a singer and 
actress.

                          ____________________