Recognizing the Service of Celeste ``clete'' Boykin

Floor Speech

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Mr. NORMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Celeste ``Clete'' Boykin for her outstanding service to our state.

A native of Lancaster, Clete has selflessly served the state of South Carolina and Clemson University for decades. Throughout her time as an undergraduate student, she proudly played in the Tiger Band and graduated from Clemson University with a degree in horticulture in 1979. Since then, she has dedicated much of her life to Clemson University and its students. She currently serves on the Clemson Regional Board of Directors for the Baltimore/DC Clemson Club to ensure the Club is one of the best in the nation. Clete also serves as the Chairperson of the Board of Advisors for the Clemson Institute for Parks, which provides research, education, training, and outreach to enhance parks and protected areas.

In addition to her involvement with Clemson University, Clete has educated the South Carolina Delegation on numerous federal issues, including cybersecurity, trade, agriculture, industry, and transportation. Clete is a respected, dependable, and humble community leader. She has exceeded expectations in service to our nation, highlighted by her receipt of numerous honors and accolades. In 2014, Clete received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Tin Cup Awards for her work in the Washington Government Relations Group (WGRG), one of the nation's oldest volunteer organizations for Black government employees. More recently, Clete received the Clemson Alumni Association's Distinguished Service Award, the highest honor the Association can bestow upon an alumnus or alumna. The Distinguished Service Award is given to alumni who have not only dedicated their life to professionalism and public service, but who have also continued a lifelong dedication to Clemson University.

On behalf of the 5th District of South Carolina, it is my most sincere pleasure to recognize Clete for her outstanding leadership and public service. I wish her the best of luck throughout her future endeavors, as I am confident she will continue to serve and find great success in all that she does.

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