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Tribute To Dr. Richard W. Mcdowell

Volume
Volume 147 , Number 96
Pages
Pages E1300-E1301
Legislative Body
Extensions of Remarks
Date
Wed, July 11, 2001

Rep. Joseph K. Knollenberg

legislator photo
Party
R
State
MI

Mr. Speaker, today I pay tribute to Dr. Richard W. McDowell, the longest-serving President in Schoolcraft College's history. He will be retiring on June 30, 2001. Dr. McDowell has been a great asset to his students, and served the Michigan educational community with diligence and excellence. In addition to his tenure as president, he has served on numerous educational and commerce boards, including the Livonia Chamber of Commerce, American Association of Community Colleges, and Council of North Central Two-year Colleges.

After completing his tenure as vice-president and acting-president at two community colleges in Pittsburgh and Florida respectively, Richard McDowell joined Schoolcraft College in 1981, and helped guide the college through a 20-year period of academic growth and brilliance. On this end, he achieved high standards in increasing staff development, employee recognition, and provided the necessary direction to establishing the Business Development Center that has generated a billion dollars in grants to various local companies.

The increased funds have enabled Schoolcraft College to be expanded considerably, which has made for a livelier and richer educational environment for students. On May 16th, 2001 the college broke ground on a $27 million facility that will house a state-of-the-art information technology center, and it's culinary arts department, which is recognized nationally. The college also plans to break ground on a $27 million facility that will house a state-of-the-art information technology center, and its culinary arts department, which is recognized nationally.

Through his dedication and hard work to Schoolcraft College and the Michigan educational community, Dr. McDowell is a prime example of the kind of people that we need running the affairs of colleges and universities dedicated to providing the best environment and education possible to our students. I congratulate Richard on his fine achievements and wish nothing but the best in his future endeavors.