[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 134 (Friday, July 30, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E863]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             IN RECOGNITION OF JEWELL COLBERT'S RETIREMENT

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                          HON. EMANUEL CLEAVER

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 30, 2021

  Mr. CLEAVER. Madam Speaker, it is my honor today to recognize the 
exceptional, lifelong public service career of Mr. Jewell Colbert. As 
an agent of the Social Security Administration, his service to our 
community, our country, and the federal government is invaluable. A 
dedicated public servant such as himself is more than deserving of 
praise.
  Mr. Colbert began his career in 1986 with the Social Security 
Administration, working as a Claims Representative in St. Joseph, 
Missouri. He would then ascend the agency's ranks, becoming Operations 
Supervisor, District Manager, Project Manager, and most recently, 
Regional Communications Director. Mr. Colbert remained committed to 
educating and empowering the community around him through social 
security programs and undoubtedly impacted countless individuals. The 
last decade of his career as Regional Communications Director was 
especially significant. He continued his dedicated loyalty as a civil 
servant to the public and organization he served, demonstrating 
steadfast leadership throughout his senior positions. His devotion to 
people, public service, and inspiring leadership were hallmarks of his 
career.
  During Mr. Colbert's time at the Social Security Administration, the 
agency played a significant role in improving the lives of thousands. 
In the 1990s, the SSA was established as an independent agency and 
immediately began working on behalf of the American people. During this 
time, the SSA defined itself by expanding Disability and Supplemental 
Security Income programs and aiding the public in personal financial 
planning. In the 2000s, the SSA created the ``Final Rule'' doctrine, 
which set a standard for quick determination of benefits for disabled 
individuals. It also established certain rights these individuals would 
have, such as a federal review of state ruling. These advances were 
incredibly beneficial, especially to those who could not work and rely 
on Social Security benefits to pay for necessities. The progress made 
by the Social Security Administration during Mr. Colbert's career had a 
lasting impact still in place today.
  The selfless spirit of service displayed by Mr. Colbert throughout 
his career is a shining example of the lessons taught to us in 
scripture. Acts 20:35 reads, ``Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, 
how he himself said, `It is more blessed to give than to receive.' '' 
Mr. Colbert exemplified this statement through his hard work and 
dedication to his community. His leadership and service provided aid to 
those who most needed it and was integral in making Social Security 
programs inclusive and accessible to the public.
  Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Jewell Colbert's lifetime 
of public service. His immense impact will continue through the 
multitude of lives he improved. On behalf of Missouri's Fifth District, 
I wish Mr. Colbert great joy and relaxation in retirement.

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