[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 174 (Friday, October 26, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1467]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING RICHARD DAVIDIAN

                                  _____
                                 

                          HON. ELIOT L. ENGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 26, 2018

  Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, the Pelham community of which I represent is 
very fortunate to have so many active and involved members working to 
improve the neighborhood. One of those individuals, Richard Davidian, 
has had an especially impactful role for students in Pelham's 
exceptional school system.
  A long-time Pelham Civic Member and Officer, Rich, as he is better 
known, created and chaired one of the most successful programs in 
Pelham Civics' history--Help a Child, Change A Life Student Development 
Initiative. This revolutionary program focuses on students (K-12) from 
economically challenged households providing access to learning tools 
and skill development programs designed to move them closer to their 
true potential. Nothing like this had been done before, and the program 
rapidly grew across the entire district touching all the schools and 
grades.
  The results were unprecedented--Elementary school students who were 
performing far below benchmark, were now performing at benchmark; 
Middle school and high school students who were failing multiple 
classes were now passing, and some were achieving honors, and high 
honor roll; Students were now attending advanced placement courses, and 
college courses. Rich was honored by the Board of Education with the 
Thomas B. Fenlon Award, which was usually given to retiring Board of 
Education members.
  In addition, Rich chaired the Pelham Civics Good Neighbors Program 
for 12 years, where his exemplary diligence and attention to detail, 
combined with his compassion and commitment, was a tremendous source of 
comfort and hope. Rich is a Retired Partner of a global consulting firm 
where he was a recognized thought leader in marketing and sales 
strategy. He and his wife Sona take great pride in their three 
daughters, two sons-in-law and first grandchild.
  Rich is honored as humanitarian, visionary, and exemplary Pelham 
Civic. It is no wonder then why the Civics have decided to honor Rich 
at their 2018 Dinner Dance. He is most deserving of the recognition. I 
want to congratulate Rich on this wonderful honor and thank him for all 
he has accomplished on behalf of Pelham and its residents.

                          ____________________