[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 169 (Friday, November 15, 2024)]
[House]
[Page H6023]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 CONGRATULATING RUTH HENDERSON McQUEEN 

  (Mr. BURCHETT asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. BURCHETT. Madam Speaker, I congratulate Ms. Ruth Henderson 
McQueen for making it into the National 4-H Hall of Fame.
  Ruth is a remarkable Tennessean who has dedicated her life to serving 
our communities, agriculture, and especially 4-H youth. Ruth started 
out in 4-H as a fifth grader in Loudon County. Back then, her family 
didn't even have indoor plumbing, much less a phone or a TV. Through 4-
H, Ruth's world opened up.
  Madam Speaker, over her 26-year career with UT Extension, Ruth 
accomplished a lot of firsts. She became the first female president of 
UT's agriculture honor society, Gamma Sigma Delta, and she organized 
events like Ag Day that bring our community together.
  What is most special about Ruth is her dedication to people. She 
oversaw a program that welcomed over 850 Japanese students into 
Tennessee homes, where they learned about our culture and creating 
lifelong friendships, Madam Speaker.
  Even after retirement in 2001, Ruth stayed active. She served on 
boards and mentored young adults. She is also very well spoken, unlike 
myself. She is very compassionate, and many people have said that she 
is the one to call when you need a speech, a mentor, or a listening 
ear.
  Ruth's dedication and kindness have made our community a much better 
place. I thank her for all she has done. She deserves this honor.

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