[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 141 (Thursday, August 23, 2018)]
[Senate]
[Page S5912]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO DR. PAUL BERAN

 Mr. BOOZMAN. Mr. President, today I wish to honor University 
of Arkansas- Fort Smith Chancellor Dr. Paul Beran who will be leaving 
the university at the end of August after more than a decade of 
service.
  Since becoming chancellor in 2006, Dr. Beran has shown himself to be 
a tremendous advocate for the university. During his tenure, he has 
overseen the expansion of undergraduate degree programs, as well as a 
master's degree program, resulting in the graduation of thousands of 
students over the past 12 years. Under Dr. Beran's leadership, UAFS has 
tripled its student housing capacity, expanded the school's Boreham 
Library, constructed the Windgate Art and Design facility, and expanded 
its athletics program, transitioning from the junior collegiate level 
to an NCAA Division II athletic program.
  Dr. Beran is a champion of all students, notably student veterans. He 
facilitated the construction of the veteran resource center, which 
offers veterans a special space on campus. In addition to serving as a 
communal study space, the center streamlines interactions with off-
campus organization and businesses.
  He has made a career out of helping students pave the way for a 
successful future. He has been recognized for his work to advance the 
academic opportunities of the African-American community, earning the 
Golden Hands Award from the Martin Luther King Holiday Committee. He 
was credited as a distinguished graduate of Stephen F. Austin 
University and was recognized by Texas A&M University's College of 
Education as an outstanding alumnus. All of these honors are well 
deserved.
  I congratulate Dr. Beran for his outstanding achievements in 
education and thank him for his service to the University of Arkansas-
Fort Smith. I appreciate his friendship and enjoyed working with him to 
improve education opportunities in Fort Smith. UAFS is an excellent 
school and a great asset to the region, thanks to his leadership and 
years of dedication. We will miss his guidance, but wish him continued 
success as executive director and chief executive officer of the South 
Dakota Higher Education Board of Regents.

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