[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 10]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 13445]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO MIKE McGOVERN

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PATRICK J. KENNEDY

                            of rhode island

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 21, 2009

  Mr. KENNEDY. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the constituents of the 
State of Rhode Island and those whose lives have been impacted by 
Special Olympics Rhode Island, I would like to pay tribute to Mike 
McGovern, a man who has dedicated his life to the fulfillment of dreams 
of many with intellectual disabilities.
  After a long and accomplished career serving in various leadership 
capacities for Special Olympics Rhode Island, Mike has decided to 
retire. He served as Assistant Executive Director from 1988 through 
1998 before taking on the role of Executive Director in 1998. Over the 
last two decades, Special Olympics Rhode Island has benefited from his 
talents in fiscal management, fundraising, public relations, personnel 
management, and compliance with accreditation requirements established 
by Special Olympics, Inc.
  Without a doubt, Mike's greatest satisfaction has come from watching 
young children with intellectual disabilities defy stereotypes and low 
expectations. Witnessing the children develop into confident, 
productive members of society is one of the many motivations that have 
empowered Mike over the course of his career. Additionally, Mike has 
been the driving force behind the success that Special Olympics Rhode 
Island has enjoyed in its commitment to being an athlete-centered 
program. His enthusiasm and guidance has ensured that Special Olympics 
Rhode Island is one of the most innovative and dynamic sports 
organizations in the state.
  Mike McGovern remains a true friend to all those whose lives are 
touched by a person with developmental disabilities. Special Olympians 
across Rhode Island will miss his dedication and devotion as an 
individual who truly exemplifies the true meaning of Special Olympics, 
sport, spirit, and splendor.

                          ____________________