[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 135 (Friday, August 11, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E773-E774]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING THE LIFE OF LEE ANN EAGER

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, August 11, 2023

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, today we gather to honor the remarkable 
contributions and career of Lee Ann Eager, a dedicated leader who has 
played a pivotal role in the economic development and growth of Fresno 
County. As she embarks on a new chapter in her life, retiring from her 
role as President and CEO of the Fresno County Economic Development 
Corporation (EDC), we take this moment to express our, gratitude for 
her tireless efforts in building a thriving economic base and fostering 
long-term economic resiliency.
  Throughout her tenure at the Fresno County EDC, Lee Ann Eager 
demonstrated exemplary leadership in guiding economic development and 
attracting investments to the region. Her visionary approach and 
strategic thinking allowed the EDC to expand its influence beyond the 
local sphere, engaging stakeholders from the private, public, 
philanthropic, and academic sectors at both national and international 
levels.
  Lee Ann's dedication to supporting families in her community was 
evident throughout her career. Before joining the EDC, she championed 
the cause of survivors of sexual violence as the Executive Director of 
the Rape Counseling Services of Fresno, empowering and advocating for 
those in need. Her passion for making a positive impact on the lives of 
others continued in her work at the EDC,

[[Page E774]]

where she tirelessly focused on creating opportunities for employers, 
workers, and job seekers to partake in the region's economic growth.
  Governor Newsom's appointment of Lee Ann Eager to the California 
Transportation Commission in June 2020 and her subsequent role as Chair 
exemplify her commitment to prioritizing programs and funding that 
uplift families throughout the Central Valley. Additionally, her 
involvement invarious state boards, councils, and advisory groups 
showcases her dedication to public policy initiatives that benefit the 
entire community.
  Lee Ann's passion for infrastructure development and workforce 
empowerment led her to work diligently on the High-Speed Rail project 
for over 14 years. Her efforts in assisting local businesses impacted 
by the project and advocating for workforce development across 
California demonstrate her dedication to creating inclusive economic 
opportunities.
  Her commitment to Fresno County extended to numerous local boards, 
including the Mayor's Advisory Council, Fresno State Transportation 
Institute, Fresno State's Lyles College of Engineering, and Five Cities 
JPA, among others. Through her active engagement with these 
organizations, Lee Ann contributed significantly to the growth and 
prosperity of the region.
  A fourth-generation Fresnan, Lee Ann Eager's unwavering dedication to 
her community and her exemplary service as the President and CEO of the 
Fresno County EDC have left an indelible mark on the region's economic 
landscape. Her leadership and vision have transformed the EDC into a 
dynamic, agile, and award-winning organization, earning accolades both 
nationally and internationally.
  As we celebrate Lee Ann's retirement and the impact she has had on 
Fresno County's economic development, we extend our heartfelt gratitude 
for her exceptional service. Her dedication to improving the lives of 
others, promoting economic growth, and advancing the well-being of the 
community will continue to inspire future generations of leaders.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my esteemed colleagues to join me in recognizing 
and honoring Lee Ann Eager's significant contributions to Fresno 
County, the Central Valley, and beyond. In closing, we express our 
warmest wishes to Lee Ann Eager on her well-deserved retirement and 
commend her for leaving a legacy that will continue to shape the 
economic future of Fresno County for years to come.