[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 194 (Monday, November 27, 2023)]
[Senate]
[Page S5596]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                     TRIBUTE TO DR. ROBERT COSTRELL

 Mr. BOOZMAN. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Dr. 
Robert Costrell, professor of education reform and economics and 
endowed chair in education accountability at the University of 
Arkansas, who is retiring in December.
  Dr. Costrell dedicated his career to improving education as a scholar 
and public policy adviser. He served in major policy roles to three 
Massachusetts Governors. In addition, his leadership has been valuable 
at the national level where he served in several roles to improve 
education. In 2001, he was appointed by U.S. Secretary of Education Rod 
Paige to serve on the Advisory Council on Education Statistics, and in 
2008, he was appointed by Secretary Margaret Spellings to serve on the 
National Technical Advisory Council. For his contributions to education 
finance and public pensions, Dr. Costrell was honored with the Steven 
D. Gold Award in 2020.
  He demonstrates the same passion for education as a champion for 
Israel. Dr. Costrell is a leading voice in Arkansas for advancing 
policies supporting our friend and ally. He has helped educate citizens 
and leaders at all levels of government about the importance of a 
strong U.S.-Israeli relationship. His advocacy is especially important 
today as Israel is under attack by terrorists. As Dr. Costrell would 
tell us, Israel has a right to defend itself and secure the safety of 
its people. The U.S. must continue to support Israel through these 
difficult times.
  While Dr. Costrell may be retiring from academia, it is not likely he 
will slow down. I am confident he will continue to be a vocal supporter 
of Israel's right to exist and fight to ensure we deliver on our 
promise to our ally.
  I applaud Dr. Costrell for his tremendous career helping shape 
education policy and setting the stage for success for future 
generations. I am also grateful for his significant impact in Arkansas 
and in Washington, DC, as a strong advocate for Israel. I appreciate 
his friendship and example. I wish him well as he begins a new 
chapter.

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