[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 85 (Tuesday, May 20, 2025)]
[Senate]
[Page S3003]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                            MORNING BUSINESS

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                        TRIBUTE TO BRUCE NELSON

  Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, today I want to pay tribute to an 
outstanding Iowan who has devoted the last three decades teaching the 
next generation at Waterloo Christian School in Waterloo, IA.
  Bruce Nelson is retiring from his role there as the director of 
music. Waterloo Christian opened its doors in 1973, educating 
generations of students--kindergarten through 12 grade--with a 
curriculum designed to inspire students to reach their full potential 
in academics, fine arts, athletics, and spiritual development.
  As the director of music, Mr. Nelson inspired his students to explore 
their God-given talents through music. By all accounts, he filled the 
halls of Waterloo Christian with music, harmony, and laughter that will 
echo for many years to come. His work was literally music to the ears 
of faculty, staff, students, families, and residents of the Cedar 
Valley community who attended performances he orchestrated for the last 
33 years.
  After countless hours conducting, leading, instructing, and building 
an outstanding fine arts program at Waterloo Christian, Mr. Nelson is 
hanging up his baton.
  I had the opportunity to attend the annual Patriotic Program earlier 
this month. I was impressed by the performance and enjoyed the song 
selection. It put a smile on my face to see the joyful faces of the 
students who were performing one last time under the guidance of their 
musical maestro at Waterloo Christian.
  The accolades of alumni speak volumes. Mr. Nelson inspired many of 
them to pursue careers in music. His legacy includes making ``music 
cool,'' showing his students how to worship Christ, celebrate 
patriotism, and entertain others with their musical talents.
  It is obvious Mr. Nelson captured the intangible skillset of an 
outstanding teacher, especially a music teacher. He taught his students 
that practice makes perfect. He challenged, inspired, and paved the way 
for them to gain confidence and become talented vocalists and 
musicians.
  Mr. Nelson made a lasting mark on Waterloo Christian and his iconic 
red blazer and sense of humor will be missed. Over the years, I would 
often joke that I would hire him to introduce me at events because each 
time he did, I would get a standing ovation.
  Mr. Nelson has earned many standing ovations of his own over his 33 
years leading quartet harmonies, ensembles, choral pieces, and the 
treasured Christmas and patriotic programs.
  Bruce, as you take your final bow, Barbara and I congratulate you on 
your retirement and thank you for your many years of ministry to the 
next generation. You have served as a good shepherd to your flock of 
students, guiding them to worship the Lord through musical excellence.

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