[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 108 (Wednesday, June 27, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E934-E935]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             IN RECOGNITION OF CHANCELLOR DAVID O. BELCHER

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MARK MEADOWS

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 27, 2018

  Mr. MEADOWS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life and 
memory of Dr. David O. Belcher, Chancellor of Western Carolina 
University. Dr. Belcher was a light in his community, always 
encouraging and pouring into the people around him through his passion 
for higher education, embodiment of service, and Catamount pride.
  A native of Barnwell, South Carolina, Dr. David O. Belcher began his 
career as a faculty member at Missouri State University. Prior to 
arriving at Western Carolina University, he was Provost and Vice 
Chancellor for academic affairs at the University of Arkansas at Little 
Rock. Dr. Belcher began his tenure as Chancellor at Western Carolina 
University on July 1st, 2011. This date will be etched in WCU's history 
as a starting point for accelerated growth and positive change for the 
institution and Western North Carolina. Dr. Belcher crafted a 2020 
Vision program to focus on the Western Carolina University's future, 
along with a development plan that has been essential to tremendous 
campus growth and transformation.
  Dr. Belcher cared for the faculty, staff, and students of WCU, and 
took an active role of service in Western North Carolina. Dr. Belcher 
served on the Board of Directors of the North Carolina Arboretum and 
the Asheville Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Belcher also served on the Board 
of Trustees of Harris Regional Hospital and Swain County Hospital. Dr. 
Belcher was an accomplished pianist and brought joy to many with his 
enthusiasm. His passion, determination, kindness, and ceaseless energy 
will forever be imprinted on the hearts of those who knew him.
  Dr. David O. Belcher will forever be highly regarded, remembered and 
loved amongst his

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colleagues throughout the state of North Carolina, particularly at 
Western Carolina University. Dr. Belcher's wife, Susan Belcher, the 
Belcher family, and the community of Western Carolina University are in 
my prayers during this time. It was a privilege to know Chancellor 
Belcher and, on behalf of the people of Western North Carolina, I am 
honored to celebrate his life and recognize his many outstanding 
achievements.

                          ____________________