[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 86 (Thursday, May 19, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E542]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 CELEBRATING DR. MITCHELL'S RETIREMENT

                                  _____
                                 

                            HON. BILL FOSTER

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 19, 2022

  Mr. FOSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Dr. Judy 
Mitchell and her over 25 years of service to Joliet Junior College as 
she embarks on a well-deserved retirement.
  Beginning her higher education career at 34, Dr. Mitchell quickly 
made a name for herself. Within 18-years, she was able to earn not one, 
but five degrees that spurred multiple career advancements, leading her 
to become the ninth president of the nation's first public community 
college, Joliet Junior College.
  As a JJC alum herself, Dr. Mitchell fully embodied the College's 
mission of inspiring learning, working hard, and cultivating pathways 
to prosperity. In her time as President, Dr. Mitchell has assisted in 
the creation of offices such as the Student Advising Center and the 
Office of Diversity Equity, Inclusion, and Compliance, creating a 
stronger school foundation for all.
  A fierce supporter of JJC in and outside of her presidency, Dr. 
Mitchell has even personally contributed 40 percent in funding to 
support returning adult students through what is appropriately deemed 
the Dr. Judy Mitchell Scholarship.
  Madam Speaker, I am proud to represent the communities Joliet Junior 
College serves, and I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Dr. 
Judy Mitchell for her prolific contributions to Joliet Junior College, 
and with best wishes for a happy next chapter of her life.

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