[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 12] [House] [Pages 16907-16908] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]{time} 2045 RETIREMENT OF DR. DAVID E. DANIEL The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a previous order of the House, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Conaway) is recognized for 5 minutes. Mr. CONAWAY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to one of the great educators in my hometown of Midland, Texas, Dr. David E. Daniel. David is retiring next month after 17 years as president of Midland College. All of Midland owes a deep thanks to Dr. Daniel, who has worked tirelessly to create a community college that is part of the fabric of the city. His presidency has seen Midland College undergo many changes and emerge as a first-class educational institution. The most visible aspect of Dr. Daniel's tenure is the building boom that has taken place across the campus. His administration built or renovated over a dozen campus buildings to help make more space for students and improve the classroom space at the school. Dr. Daniel has been instrumental in garnering the community support needed to finance this construction. But more important than the physical improvements to the campus has been the culture of success that Dr. Daniel has installed in the school. His philosophy that every person can succeed if they are given the right motivation and opportunity has created a campus atmosphere that puts students first. He has long understood that students are the reason for Midland College, and has never forgotten the trust they placed in him when they enrolled. [[Page 16908]] To be an educator is to be a purveyor of hope to those seeking to improve their lot in life. As Dr. Daniel looks back on his career, I hope he sees the thousands of lives he has touched. He has offered the opportunity of a better of life to every individual who has passed through the doors of the school. I wish Dr. Daniel, my friend, David, my heartfelt thanks for guiding Midland College to such great heights during his stewardship. He has left the institution stronger than when he found it, and forged a deep bond between the school and the community that it serves. Midland College has enriched the city of Midland beyond measure, and thanks to David Daniel, will continue to do so. It is an honor to represent David Daniel and his wife Dee Dee, here in Washington, D.C. As they begin the next chapter of their lives, I wish them the best of luck and the deepest of happiness. ____________________