Honoring Dr. Milton J. Boyd

HONORING DR. MILTON J. BOYD -- (Extensions of Remarks - September 30, 2004)

SPEECH OF
HON. MIKE THOMPSON
OF CALIFORNIA
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2004

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Milton J. Boyd, Ph.D., Chair and Professor of Zoology in the Department of Biological Sciences at Humboldt State University, Arcata, California who is being honored for his contribution to one of our nation's most precious rights-participation in the political system. The Humboldt County Democratic Central Committee is recognizing Milt Boyd as "Democrat of the Year, 2004." His commitment to the preservation of our political liberty is worthy of appreciation and recognition.

Professor Boyd, who received his Bachelor's Degree from the University of California at Berkeley in 1964 and his doctorate from the University of California at Davis in 1972, has taught over 3000 students during his 30 years at Humboldt State University. He has served as Faculty Advisor to student clubs for undergraduates and graduate students, including the Democrats of Humboldt State. He has been Faculty Advisor since 1992 to the Veteran's Office at the university and has assisted veterans in the Upward Bound program and the Math and Science Center, one of only two such programs funded in the United States.

During his tenure at Humboldt State University, Dr. Boyd has conducted numerous research projects involving the marine ecological resources of Northwestern California. The projects have broadly influenced marine resource management practices in Humboldt Bay and beyond.

Dr. Boyd has served two terms as HSU Chapter President of the California Faculty Association, has a statewide service role on the CFA Board of Directors and is a member of the CFA Political Action and Legislation Committee. He is a faculty representative on numerous University committees including the Academic Senate, the President's Advisory Search Committee and the Strategic Plan Steering Committee.

Milton Boyd served our nation in the United States Army. He was Commissioned 2nd Lieutenant, Field Artillery, May 1964 and was assigned to Battery "B" 1st Battalion, 6th Artillery Regiment, 1st Armored Division and Battalion Staff, 1964-1965. He served as Officer Instructor, U.S. Army Artillery School, Ft. Sill, Oklahoma, 1965-1966, and instructor for Field Artillery Officer Basic Course and Officer Candidate School. He was promoted to 1st Lieutenant in 1965 and completed his service in 1970.

He has served the community since 1983 on the Board of Directors of the Arcata Community Recycling Center. He has been a member of the Humboldt County Democratic Central Committee since 1994 and has demonstrated a special commitment to college age students by engaging their interest in the democratic process.

Mr. Speaker, it is appropriate at this time that we recognize Milton J. Boyd for his contributions and service to the people of our country.