[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 10 (Thursday, January 16, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E51]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CONGRATULATING STEVEN H. PERDUE FOR RECEIVING THE 2019 DISTINGUISHED 
                             SERVICE AWARD

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                           HON. JACK BERGMAN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, January 16, 2020

  Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Steven H. 
Perdue for receiving the 2019 Distinguished Service Award from Traverse 
Connect. Through his exceptional leadership and steadfast devotion to 
his community, Steve has become an indispensable part of Northern 
Michigan.
  Since 1929, the Distinguished Service Award has been given to leaders 
who have had a tremendously positive impact on the Traverse City area. 
Through his decades of service to his community, Steve has shown 
himself to be more than deserving of this honor. Founded in 1974, Grand 
Traverse Industries (GTI) provides comprehensive services for those 
with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As President and CEO 
of GTI, Steven has led these efforts since 1980. His exceptional work 
has helped thousands of persons with disabilities in the Grand Traverse 
Area find meaningful employment.
  Steve's selflessness has been previously recognized on multiple 
occasions, for instance receiving the 2007 Sara Hardy Humanitarian of 
the Year Award from the City of Traverse City. Outside of his work at 
GTI, Steve has served in a variety of leadership roles in the Idaho 
Special Olympics, the Idaho and Michigan State Trade Associations, the 
TC Area Chamber of Commerce, the Small Business Council, and the 
Traverse Bay Economic Development Corporation. He also serves on the 
Board of SourceAmerica, a national nonprofit that creates job 
opportunities for those with disabilities. The impact of Steve's work 
on the people of Michigan cannot be overstated.
  Madam Speaker, it's my honor to congratulate Steven H. Perdue for 
receiving the 2019 Distinguished Service Award. Michiganders can take 
great pride in knowing the First District is home to such a selfless 
leader. On behalf of my constituents, I wish Steve all the best in his 
future endeavors.

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