[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 82 (Friday, May 18, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E688-E689]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO JOHN IKARD

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE COFFMAN

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 18, 2018

  Mr. COFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge Mr. John 
Ikard's generous philanthropy and dedicated service to the State of 
Colorado.
  In 2017, Mr. Ikard retired from his position as CEO of First Bank 
after 17 years of leading one of Colorado's largest and most successful 
financial institutions. Under his leadership, John also helped to give 
back to his community. Since 2000, FirstBank has donated over $50 
million to disability and wellness charities throughout the Rocky 
Mountain region. Although Mr. Ikard has since stepped down from

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his position, he remains on First Bank's Board of Directors, ensuring 
the continuation of the company's benevolent culture.
  Mr. Ikard's success at FirstBank is rivaled by his service and 
commitment to bettering his community and the State of Colorado. He has 
previously served as Chairman of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, 
as well as the Denver Area Boy Scout Council, Colorado State University 
Board of Governors, and the Denver Economic Development Corporation. 
Today, Mr. Ikard continues to be an active member on the Colorado 
Children's Hospital Foundation and Board, as well as a pro-business 
advocate for Colorado Concern.
  Mr. Ikards's extraordinary efforts to better the lives of others have 
not gone unrecognized. This year, Mr. Ikard was honored with the Mizel 
Institute's Community Enrichment award; a highly, esteemed decoration 
bestowed on community leaders. This accomplishment is another 
noteworthy addition to Mr. Ikards's long list of achievements.
  Mr. Speaker, Mr. John Ikard's role as a business and community leader 
can serve as an inspiration to all Americans and I thank him for his 
contribution to the betterment of our community and of the State of 
Colorado.

                          ____________________