[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 181 (Thursday, November 2, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1045-E1046]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    RECOGNIZING DR. DAVID WAIN COON

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JARED HUFFMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, November 2, 2023

  Mr. HUFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Dr. David 
Wain Coon upon his retirement as the President and Superintendent of 
the College of Marin after 13 years of exceptional professional 
service.
  Dr. Coon earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Central Washington 
University, Master of Education degree from Western Washington 
University, and Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Seattle 
University. He served in prominent administrative roles in colleges 
throughout Washington State before moving to the California Community 
College system. After five years as the President of Evergreen Valley 
College in San Jose, Dr. Coon joined the College of Marin in 2010.

[[Page E1046]]

  Dr. Coon led the College of Marin into a new era. He fostered 
positive relationships with students, staff, and trustees. He oversaw 
two community-funded facility modernization projects with a budget of 
more than $515 million. Under his leadership, the college developed 
innovative programs including COMPASS and Summer Bridge that are models 
for other community colleges throughout California. He developed 
partnerships with Marin County's primary and secondary schools and 
nonprofits to strengthen pathways to higher education. Dr. Coon 
responded to many challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic with 
innovative solutions and calm and collaborative guidance.
  Dr. Coon has a deep commitment to equity and inclusion which extends 
beyond his work with the College of Marin both as the co-chair of the 
Marin Promise Partnership and member of the Board of Directors for the 
San Rafael Chamber of Commerce. His accomplishments earned both the 
College of Marin and Evergreen Valley College prestigious accolades, 
including the Dr. John W. Rice Diversity & Equity Award.
  Known for his thoughtfulness, integrity, collaboration and good sense 
of humor, Dr. Coon exemplifies what it means to be a public servant. 
And it is no surprise that his years of service more than double the 
average tenure for community college superintendents. Mr. Speaker, I 
respectfully ask that you join me in expressing gratitude to Dr. Coon 
for his enduring commitment and invaluable contributions to the College 
of Marin and greater community.

                          ____________________