[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 2 (Wednesday, January 4, 2017)]
[Senate]
[Page S46]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          TRIBUTE TO JOE TOLAN

  Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, at the beginning of this year, one of 
Louisville's foremost community servants began his much-deserved 
retirement. I rise today to congratulate Joseph Tolan, a man of 
distinction who dedicated his life to the people of Louisville and 
Kentucky.
  Many years ago, I had the pleasure of working alongside Joe. When I 
served as the judge/executive of Jefferson County, Joe led the county 
department for human services. I particularly remember his passion for 
helping those around him, and that passion has been the driving force 
of his career. And believe me, I can tell you, from firsthand 
experience, that passion is contagious.
  For the last 30 years, Joe has committed himself to the Metro United 
Way, a Louisville organization that raises and distributes funds to 
worthy causes around the region. Spending the last 15 years as 
president and CEO, Joe led the effort to raise nearly $30 million every 
year to support approximately 100 organizations. The community support 
that Joe inspired has led Metro United Way to be ranked in the top 25 
markets nationwide.
  However, organizations like Metro United Way are measured by so much 
more than just the donations they raise. True success is counted by the 
lives impacted and the good work done. With a focus on education, 
financial stability, and healthy living, Metro United Way impacts 
thousands of families across the region every single day.
  Since joining Metro United Way, Joe has been a major player in the 
transformation of the city of Louisville and the entire region. 
Although the organization is over 100 years old, it is constantly 
adapting to meet today's challenges in the most effective ways 
possible. With this commitment to excellence and a growing network of 
strategic partnerships, Metro United Way proved to be a lasting force 
for good in the community. During his tenure as president and CEO, Joe 
hasn't just been a part of this innovation, he has been its leader.
  Joe has surely earned his retirement, but I know many of us are very 
sorry to see him go. He leaves behind an impressive list of 
accomplishments and an organization well positioned to continue his 
work. I want to extend my congratulations to Joe on such a successful 
career of dedicated leadership always with a vision to help everyone 
reach their fullest potential.

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