Congratulating the Retirement of Dr. Lourdes ``lulu'' Blacksmith

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Dr. Lourdes ``Lulu'' Blacksmith on her retirement and to honor her many years of dedicated service to communities across Kane County and beyond.

Dr. Blacksmith's Journey is a testament to the American Dream. Born in Querendaro, Michoacan, Mexico, she arrived in the United States in 1974, embracing a new land with open arms and a thirst for opportunity.

Her career path reflects a commitment to public service and community engagement. Dr. Blacksmith began her exemplary career as the Manager of Community Outreach at AMITA Health Mercy Medical Center in Aurora, Illinois. She went on to serve as the Director of Community Relations and District Press Secretary for the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, demonstrating her ability to navigate the complexities of government and advocate for the needs of constituents. Most recently, she served as the Managing Director of Community Engagement and Legislative Affairs for Elgin Community College, where she helped bridge the gap between education and the community.

In addition to her professional achievements, Dr. Blacksmith has dedicated herself to empowering marginalized communities. In 1999, she founded Companeros en Salud, an organization that provides vital healthcare resources to the Hispanic community and other diverse groups. Her commitment to social justice is evident in her active membership in numerous organizations, including the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP), the Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley, RISE of South Elgin, and the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce.

Dr. Blacksmith's tireless efforts have been recognized with numerous awards including the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus Foundation's Latino Leadership Award, the Quad County Urban League's ``Women of Power'' Award, and the Chicago Latino Network's Latina Professionals Award.

Her academic achievements are equally impressive. Dr. Blacksmith earned her Doctor of Education degree in Leadership in Higher Education and Organizational Change from Benedictine University, a Masters degree in Higher Education Leadership from Northeastern Illinois University, her Bachelors degree in Liberal Arts with an emphasis on Multicultural Studies from DePaul University, and an Associate's degree in Applied Sciences from Waubonsee Community College.

Mr Speaker, I am proud to honor Dr. Lourdes ``Lulu'' Blacksmith. Her dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to serving others have left an indelible mark on our community. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating her as she embarks on this new chapter in her life with her husband Steve, two daughters Nikki and Stefanie, and her grandchildren Sophia and Stephen. We wish her the best in her well- deserved retirement, and we express our gratitude for her contributions to Kane County and the Nation.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source