[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 55 (Tuesday, March 24, 2026)]
[Senate]
[Page S1579]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                      TRIBUTE TO MARILYN MITCHELL

  Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I rise today to pay special tribute to 
Marilyn Mitchell of Norfolk, NE. Marilyn's dedication to music and the 
arts has enriched the cultural life of communities across our State, 
made evident by the Norfolk Arts Center naming its art gallery in her 
honor.
  Marilyn graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln School of 
Music in 1954 with a degree in music education and piano performance. 
She began her career teaching music in the public school system in 
Imperial, NE. In 1959, Marilyn and her family moved to Norfolk, NE, 
where she established a private studio teaching piano and organ. For 
more than three decades, Marilyn instructed and mentored students, 
shaping young musicians and leaving a lasting artistic impact on her 
community.
  Marilyn also faithfully served as organist and music director at the 
First Congregational Church of Norfolk for 25 years. During that time, 
she founded a junior choir, adult choir, and handbell choir, bringing 
music to life for congregants of all ages. She shared her talents 
widely, playing for countless weddings, funerals, civic events, and 
community performances throughout Nebraska. She was also an 
enthusiastic supporter of Norfolk's Crimson Cadets Drum and Bugle 
Corps.
  Beyond her musical contributions, Marilyn played a vital leadership 
role in strengthening Nebraska's arts institutions. She served for 18 
years on the board of the Norfolk Arts Center, including 7 years as 
president. During her tenure, Marilyn provided the vision and 
leadership that resulted in the construction of a new $1.8 million arts 
center, dedicated in 2000. With its galleries, classrooms, and 
sculpture garden, the center continues to serve as a cornerstone of 
arts and culture in northeast Nebraska.
  Marilyn's commitment to the arts also extended statewide and beyond. 
In 1989, she was appointed to the Nebraska Arts Council by Kay Orr and 
later reappointed by Ben Nelson. During her service, she promoted arts 
programming throughout the State. Under her leadership at the Norfolk 
Arts Center, the center's programming received national recognition 
from the National Endowment for the Arts.
  Marilyn Mitchell's lifelong commitment to music, education, and 
cultural leadership has left an indelible mark on Nebraska. I ask my 
colleagues to join me in recognizing Marilyn Mitchell for her 
extraordinary contributions to the arts and to the people of Nebraska.

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