[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 152 (2006), Part 5]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 7202]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




TRIBUTE TO THE COLORADO ASSOCIATION OF BLACK PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS AND 
                               SCIENTISTS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DIANA DeGETTE

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 4, 2006

  Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the history and 
invaluable contributions of an exceptional organization in the 1st 
Congressional District of Colorado. It is both fitting and proper that 
we recognize this organization for its educational leadership and 
record of extraordinary service benefiting underrepresented young 
people in Colorado and the Denver area. It is to commend this exemplary 
organization that I rise to honor the Colorado Association of Black 
Professional Engineers and Scientists on the occasion of its 25th 
anniversary.
  The growing importance of innovation in science and engineering to 
our economic well-being and to a better quality of life for our 
citizens is well documented. Currently, there is much discussion and 
concern in this Congress about the ability of the United States to 
sustain its scientific and technological superiority. Sustaining our 
leadership hinges upon expanding our human capital to meet the 
technical challenges of a new economy and its increasingly global and 
complex systems. In this regard, cultivating students with the 
requisite skills to enter the pipeline of future engineers and 
scientists has become a priority.
  Over 25 years ago, a group of committed African-American engineers 
anticipated the future. They recognized the need to expand the pool of 
talent entering our colleges and universities. In 1980, they founded 
the Colorado Association of Black Professional Engineers and Scientists 
(CABPES) with the express purpose of increasing the representation of 
minorities in the fields of engineering and applied sciences. CABPES 
has been in the vanguard of cultivating talented youth and it has 
become a learning gateway for students from all walks of life desiring 
to expand their horizons. Its commitment to the future is longstanding 
and our communities are well-advised by its example and the foresight 
of its founders.
  Professional mentoring sets CABPES apart and a cadre of dedicated 
parents and committed volunteers are responsible for its outreach and 
educational programs including: the Junior Engineers, Tomorrow's 
Scientists Program which concentrates on developing student interest in 
engineering and applied sciences; the Math Enrichment Program which 
tutors students with their mathematics assignments; the SAT Preparation 
Program which prepares students for the college entrance examination; 
and the Widening Our World Program which gives CAPBES' students the 
opportunity to use their computer skills and develop leadership 
abilities through community service. These programs have served to 
enrich the learning experience by providing an environment that offers 
real-world perspective, dialogue and exchange. Students have gained a 
richer and deeper understanding from practitioners who not only impart 
a passion and enthusiasm for their disciplines, but convey the sense of 
wonder that accompanies discovery and scientific endeavor.
  We are indeed fortunate to have CABPES in our community. It is an 
invaluable resource and I am deeply appreciative of the good work 
CABPES does in making science and engineering careers more attractive 
to all our students, particularly the under-represented. CABPES' 
programs help improve performance in the classroom and its mentors 
provide solid role models that encourage achievement. We owe a debt of 
gratitude not only to CABPES' founders, its board, volunteers and 
management professionals, but to its private sector partners as well. 
Their engagement and support of this organization make a real 
difference in the lives of our young people and thereby, in the 
communities CABPES serves.
  Please join me in commending the Colorado Association of Black 
Professional Engineers and Scientists. It is the strong leadership and 
meaningful service this organization provides on a daily basis that 
continually enhances our lives and builds a better future for all 
Americans.

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