[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 8 (Tuesday, January 14, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E36]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING DR. EARL LENNARD

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. CHARLIE CRIST

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 14, 2020

  Mr. CRIST. Madam Speaker, I rise today to ask the House of 
Representatives to join me in commemorating the memory of Dr. Earl 
Lennard for his upstanding service as the Superintendent for 
Hillsborough County Schools and Hillsborough Supervisor of Elections.
  Dr. Lennard was born on March 22, 1942 in Tampa, Florida where he 
grew up with nine brothers and sisters. He was a part of the first 
graduating class of the University of South Florida, earning his 
bachelor's degree in education in 1963. Dr. Lennard began his teaching 
career at Ruskin Elementary School, a temporary position that evolved 
into a profession and lifelong passion. In 1996, Dr. Lennard was named 
Superintendent of Hillsborough County Schools, where he established 
magnet schools and the school choice program, allowing for students to 
attend schools that fit their needs best. Additionally, he oversaw the 
openings of countless schools throughout the district to accommodate 
for the rapid population growth in my home of Tampa Bay.
  In 2009, I had the honor as Florida's Governor to appoint Dr. Lennard 
to serve as Hillsborough Supervisor of Elections. Dr. Lennard's civic 
involvement and commitment to the Tampa Bay community made my choice 
clear. As Supervisor of Elections, Dr. Lennard worked tirelessly to 
ensure every citizen had equal access to the ballot box.
  Outside of his professional life, Dr. Lennard worked to benefit his 
community by serving as a Sunday school teacher at Riverview United 
Methodist Church, participating in the Brandon Community Foundation, 
and helping establish the Sandy & George Simmons Family Boys & Girls 
Club in Riverview. Though he is no longer with us, the impact of Dr. 
Lennard, both in Hillsborough and throughout Tampa Bay, will be felt 
for years to come through his dedication to improving academic 
opportunities for students throughout Tampa Bay.
  Madam Speaker, please join me once again to commemorate Dr. Earl 
Lennard for his service and dedication to his community. His leadership 
and character distinguish him as a true public servant.

                          ____________________