[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 69 (Friday, April 19, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E376]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       RECOGNIZING KEVIN O'KEEFE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JERROLD NADLER

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, April 19, 2024

  Mr. NADLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the tremendous 
accomplishments of Kevin O'Keefe, a dedicated community leader in East 
Midtown Manhattan.
  Kevin has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to our community 
through his roles as the founder and president of the St. Vartan Park 
Conservancy, the president of the Manhattan East Community Association, 
a member of Manhattan Community Board 6, a trustee of the Murray Hill 
Neighborhood Association, a board member of the Stuyvesant Cove Park 
Association, an advisory board member of the Village Trip, a coach, an 
entrepreneur, a writer, a husband, and a father.
  In these roles, Kevin has led multiple initiatives to increase the 
quality of life in East Midtown. In 2019, he led a major advocacy 
campaign to reopen an East Midtown garden and lawn after decades of 
closure. Since then, thousands of individuals have enjoyed their time 
inside the now-public green space.
  As a member of Manhattan Community Board 6, Kevin led an initiative 
for members of the public to make presentations to the board to better 
understand community needs. In this capacity, he also serves as a 
committee chair and member of the Youth and Education Committee and 
Health and Human Services Committee.
  Furthermore, Kevin's commitment extends to youth sports and 
education. He is a former all-American athlete who volunteers as a 
sports coach, heading the track and field program at a local East 
Midtown school and running ``Swish You Were Here,'' a community 
basketball net-replacement initiative.
  Kevin is also an entrepreneur and accomplished writer. He is the 
author of the nonfiction bestseller The Average American, which follows 
O'Keefe's journey to find the nation's most statistically average 
person. The book has inspired many people to find a middle ground when 
talking with those with differing views and has earned accolades from 
former President Barack Obama. In his professional life, he has led New 
York Sports Tours and other prominent brands and companies.
  On April 25, 2023, Kevin was honored at the Samuel J. Tilden 
Democratic Club's 70th anniversary gala with the Platinum Anniversary 
Award for Distinguished Service.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and admiration that we 
recognize Kevin O'Keefe for his outstanding service and leadership. His 
dedication not only enhances the vibrancy of East Midtown but also sets 
a commendable example of civic engagement and community spirit. We are 
grateful for his contributions and proud to count him as a 
distinguished member of our community.