Tribute to Dr. C. Vincent Bakeman

TRIBUTE TO DR. C. VINCENT BAKEMAN -- (Extensions of Remarks - June 25, 2004)
SPEECH OF HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON OF MISSISSIPPI IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
FRIDAY, JUNE 25, 2004

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the life and legacy Dr. C. Vincent Bakeman, a co-founder of the Human Resources Development Institute, Inc. (HRDI), who devoted himself to improving our alcohol and chemical dependency treatment systems.

We are all aware of the national problem that is especially acute in inner-city areas across this great Nation. The shortage of healthcare professionals has left many underserved communities without access to healthcare, placing low- and middle-income families at even greater risk of suffering from medical conditions and disorders that could be averted.

True to its mission, HRDI has charted innovative healthcare solutions that continue to stabilize and strengthen families, neighborhoods and entire communities from Chicago to Las Vegas to Indianola, Mississippi, and points in between.
Additionally, through his efforts to empower those without healthcare, he formed partnerships with area institutions of higher learning to assist residents in acquiring the necessary skills and training central to competing in this new age of information and technology.

Many of our colleagues here in Congress have espoused the notion of expanding healthcare coverage. Dr. Bakeman lived it.

It is through community efforts as demonstrated by Dr. Bakeman and HRDI that we may be able to achieve a reality of accessible and affordable healthcare for all.

During his thirty-plus years of service, Dr. Bakeman touched the lives of many, proving that even the simplest ideas can make a big difference.

I take great pride in commending the work of Dr. C. Vincent Bakeman and HRDI on a job well done for more than 30 years.