[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 34 (Monday, February 27, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E233]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




IN CELEBRATION OF THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE WALL OF HONOR WITHIN THE 
         FRESNO AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL MUSEUM

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                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, February 27, 2017

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the State Center 
Community College District's Wall of Honor within the Fresno African 
American Historical and Cultural Museum in celebration of its 20 year 
anniversary. As we celebrate Black History Month, it is important to 
note this important part of the museum which has highlighted successes 
in the African American community throughout the San Joaquin Valley.
  The African American Historical and Cultural Museum was the creation 
of Jack Kelley, the first African American police sergeant in Fresno. 
Passionate about black history, Jack wanted to create a place where 
people could go to recognize and enjoy black history throughout our 
Valley. Jack and former State Center Community College District 
chancellor, Dr. Bill F. Stewart, coined the idea of creating a Wall of 
Honor within the museum, where exceptional African American leaders 
affiliated with the State Center Community College District could be 
recognized. Since 1996, the Wall of Honor has served as a platform to 
highlight the success of notable African Americans in our community. 
Each year, a committee of local leaders accepts nominations for the 
Wall of Honor and selects the inductees. Those inducted into the Wall 
of Honor must have attended, worked or served the State Center 
Community College District.
  The Wall of Honor acts as a representation of the triumphs African 
Americans in the State Center Community College District have achieved. 
It will serve as a place for where the brilliance, accomplishments, and 
strength of our black community leaders will be honored. It is my great 
pleasure to honor the Wall of Honor for a successful 20 years. I also 
commemorate the services of all the staff of the museum and the State 
Center Community College District who have worked hard to educate our 
community and preserve our Valley's African American History. I send my 
best wishes for many years to come.

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