[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 99 (Monday, June 12, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E801]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                             DAVID JOHNSON

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. LYNN JENKINS

                               of kansas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 12, 2017

  Ms. JENKINS of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and 
congratulate David Johnson of Lawrence, Kansas, for his commitment, 
leadership, and service to the State of Kansas and people struggling 
with mental illnesses everywhere.
   As his tenure as CEO of the Bert-Nash Community Mental Health Center 
nears its end, and we reflect on his sixteen years serving as CEO, we 
celebrate the work he has done to positively impact the Lawrence 
community, Douglas County, the State of Kansas, and beyond.
   David demonstrated national leadership as the CEO of a community 
mental health center by continuing to serve the ever-growing community 
of Lawrence, while facing the challenge of decreased funding. David has 
championed initiatives for mental health care such as the Mental Health 
First Aid grant program and was the person who first brought that 
program's need and impact to my attention. David has been such an 
effective national voice for this program that he was invited as a 
Congressional witness in 2014 to share with Members of Congress the 
need for the Mental Health First Act of 2013.
   As one of the original fourteen people trained as Mental Health 
First Aid instructors in the country, David undoubtedly encouraged and 
inspired more people to get that training so they could help their 
family, friends and neighbors in their time of need.
   David is willing to boldly lead on the issue of mental health care 
and advocate for the millions of Americans hiding in the shadows 
struggling with mental illness.
   When it comes to our home State of Kansas, David has made his 
imprint through undertaking statewide efforts that help create new 
opportunities for people with mental illness and their families. These 
initiatives allow more people to discover and receive the care they 
need while their families are educated on ways to help their loved 
ones.
   I extend my deepest appreciation to David Johnson for his service 
and commitment to the State of Kansas and while I am sad to hear of his 
retirement, I wish him and his family all the best in the years ahead.

                          ____________________