Recognizing Thomas Atkins

Floor Speech

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Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Thomas Atkins, who served as a dedicated member of my staff for almost 20 years, where he worked tirelessly to advance my agenda for all residents of the District of Columbia.

Thomas has an extensive political background, having served as the National Volunteer Coordinator on the Jackson for President Campaign '84 and as a Political Director with the Campaign for Military Service. He also served as a leader in the environmental movement and the peace movement and has worked for justice on important political issues. He has made a positive impact on D.C. and the world.

As his colleagues will attest, Thomas works with commitment and passion. In my office, his deep dedication to the arts and education were invaluable when he served as the Coordinator of the D.C. Congressional Art Competition Committee. His leadership, enthusiasm and commitment ensured successful competitions, which brought together locally, nationally and internationally renowned educators and artists to serve as committee members and jurors. Through his leadership, the committee was able to offer mentorship to aspiring young artists and facilitate scholarships to esteemed institutions like the Savannah College of Art and Design (Savannah, Georgia) and the Corcoran School of the Arts & Design (Washington, D.C.). The committee also hosted grand receptions and student art exhibits at prestigious venues, including the Smithsonian Institution, the National Building Museum, the Corcoran Gallery of Art, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and notable galleries throughout D.C.

Thomas has held several professional roles. He worked in the entertainment industry, where he served as the Personal Representative of Hal Jackson, a founder of Inner City Broadcasting Corporation (ICBC), and his daughter Jane Jackson Harley, Talent Coordinator of the Apollo Theater and the Founder of Kemit Productions in New York City. He is an avid art collector and has traveled extensively around the world. His collection, the TERA Gallery, has been exhibited in the United States and abroad.

Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to recognize Thomas Atkins for his service and dedication. We all wish him the best in his well-deserved retirement.

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