[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 53 (Wednesday, March 27, 2019)]
[Senate]
[Page S2035]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

 Mr. BENNET. Mr. President. I wish to honor the distinguished 
career of Bruce Benson, the outgoing president of the University of 
Colorado. Through his tenacity and hard work, Bruce made the university 
and the State of Colorado a better place. CU is one of the Nation's 
great universities, and Bruce's contributions, including the record-
breaking growth in research funding, have made it a source of statewide 
pride.
  Bruce would admit that he was originally reluctant to take the job 
and with good reason: He had already enjoyed a long and fruitful career 
in politics, philanthropy, and business. However, those experiences and 
relationships were exactly what made Bruce so effective. As only he 
could, Bruce was able to use these experiences to further CU's standing 
as one the Nation's prominent public universities and research 
institutions.
  Under Bruce's leadership, the university's research funding reached 
record levels, surpassing $1 billion during the last academic year. 
This money allowed for critical research in biotechnology, healthcare, 
energy, and aerospace and a number of other fields. Additionally, CU 
had its 6 best fundraising years during his time at the helm, including 
a record $440.4 million between 2017 and 2018. All the while, Bruce 
guided efforts to implement operational efficiencies, cut bureaucracy, 
and improve business practices at the university. Successes like these 
solidify Bruce's legacy and his commitment to the future of Colorado. 
It is worth noting that he is retiring as the longest serving CU 
president in more than half a century.
  Bruce has always been a tireless champion for Colorado's young 
people. He worked to make the DPS Foundation into the great civic 
organization it is today. He has also done extraordinary work at 
Children's Hospital Colorado.
  Bruce has consistently worked to change the lives of children and 
students across the State of Colorado, from the youngest of kids to 
college graduates. I know I speak on behalf of all of Colorado when I 
say that we are all grateful for his service.

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