[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 187 (Monday, November 13, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1091-E1092]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      HONORING DONA ANA COMMUNITY COLLEGE FOR 50 YEARS OF SERVICE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. GABE VASQUEZ

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, November 13, 2023

  Mr. VASQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dona Ana Community 
College for its 50 years of exemplary service to the New Mexico 
community. DACC's commitment to education, community development and 
workforce training have opened doors to new opportunities for thousands 
of students.
  DACC opened in 1973 as the Dona Ana County Occupational Education 
Branch. Since that time, the college has expanded to six campuses, 
training students in a wide variety of occupations that keep our 
communities moving. From public health workers to teachers, electrical 
lineworkers to firefighters, and chefs to welders, DACC graduates can 
be found performing essential jobs throughout southern New Mexico. 
Additionally, their adult education programs and high school 
partnerships ensure that age is not a barrier to higher learning.
  DACC has been enriched by the service of its past presidents, 
including Dr. Alex Sanchez, Dr. Patricio Quintana, Dr. Donaciano 
Gonzalez, Dr. Andrew Burke, Dr. Margie Huerta, Dr. Renay Scott, and 
current president Dr. Monica Torres. On behalf of all who have 
benefitted from DACC's work, I thank these leaders for their vision and 
their commitment to educating our community.
  DACC continues to look forward, with programs such as a new 
scholarship to support education towards renewable energy jobs. I 
believe that New Mexico should be a leader in building a clean energy 
economy, and I am grateful for the work of DACC and all of our 
educational institutions to build our future workforce.
  As DACC commemorates its 50 year anniversary, I thank all who have 
worked for DACC for their service. They have ensured that education is 
available to all who seek it out for 50 years, and I wish them and 
their students the best going forward.

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