[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 4]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 4563]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




IN RECOGNITION OF PRISCILLA RAKESTRAW, 24TH TRAILBLAZER AWARD RECIPIENT

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                         HON. MICHAEL N. CASTLE

                              of delaware

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 31, 2008

  Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise 
today to recognize Ms. Priscilla Rakestraw, who is the recipient of The 
Agenda for Delaware Women's 24th Trailblazer Award. Priscilla was 
selected for this award because of her pioneer roles in formulating 
corporate policy, community service, politics, and Government.
   During her career in human resources at the DuPont Company, 
Priscilla was instrumental in developing substance abuse and sexual 
harassment programs for DuPont. These programs gained recognition 
nationwide, eventually resulting in their adoption at DuPont locations 
throughout the United States. Due to Priscilla's foresight and 
persistence, DuPont was able to provide assistance aimed at eradicating 
harmful behaviors in the workplace.
   After leaving DuPont, Priscilla continued to use her skills and 
passion as a leader to advance causes for organizations she feels 
strongly about. She is active in raising funds for various community, 
church, and charitable organizations. As development director for 
Wilmington College, Priscilla played a vital part in raising funds to 
expand the university by acquiring new college sites. As development 
director for the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition, she has raised funds 
for a new, more conveniently located facility. She has served on a 
number of boards, including Goodwill, the Ministry of Caring, the East 
Side Charter School, and the annual auction for the Emmanuel Dining 
Room, where she raised over $500,000 to provide food to those in need.
   An advocate for women in politics and Government, Priscilla has long 
encouraged women to pursue positions in politics, she herself having 
extensive experience in the political arena. Priscilla has held 
leadership positions in more than 120 campaigns, both at the national 
and State levels. She is presently the longest serving member of the 
Republican National Committee, having held the position of Delaware's 
Republican National Committeewoman since the age of 27. She will attend 
the National Convention this year, as usual, and is a member of the 
Arrangements Committee and chair of the Convention's Entertainment 
Committee.
   I want to publicly thank, recognize and acknowledge Priscilla 
Rakestraw for her many years of service and numerous contributions to 
the State of Delaware. She is an excellent role model for those who 
aspire to serve their community through both public office and private 
service. She is a true trailblazer in every respect.

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