[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 166 (Wednesday, October 11, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E948]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                        RECOGNIZING IRIS BARKETT

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                        HON. BRITTANY PETTERSEN

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 11, 2023

  Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize 
Iris Barkett of Canon City, Colorado for receiving the United States 
Department of State Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship. As 
part of this prestigious honor, Iris traveled to Bosnia and 
Herzegovina, Croatia to study abroad.
  U.S. Study Abroad programs are an important component of the federal 
government's efforts to ensure Americans of all backgrounds have the 
opportunity to gain global experiences and work across our borders to 
help address our world's greatest challenges. The Benjamin A. Gilman 
Scholarship provides exceptional undergraduate students with the 
opportunity to expand their cultural proficiencies, study critical need 
languages, and conduct STEM research. The scholarship has empowered 
over 41,000 individuals with financial need to engage in people-to-
people diplomacy and prepare for distinguished careers in public 
service.
  I commend Iris for pursuing an exemplary international education and 
representing America abroad as a citizen ambassador. This scholarship 
rightly recognizes a commitment to academic excellence. Mr. Speaker Pro 
Tempore, it is a privilege to recognize Iris' many accomplishments.

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