On 2025-04-07, Representative Dan Newhouse (R-WA-4) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE LEGACY OF WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT DR. KIRK SCHULZ" in the House.
HONORING THE LEGACY OF WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT DR. KIRK SCHULZ Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 62 (Monday, April 7, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 62 (Monday, April 7, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E292-E293] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LEGACY OF WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT DR. KIRK SCHULZ ______ HON. DAN NEWHOUSE of washington in the house of representatives Monday, April 7, 2025 Mr. NEWHOUSE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, along with my colleagues from Washington state, Representatives Suzan DelBene, Rick Larsen, Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, Michael Baumgartner, Emily Randall, Pramila Jayapal, Kim Schrier, Adam Smith, and Marilyn Strickland, to recognize and commend the distinguished tenure of Dr. Kirk Schulz as President of Washington State University (WSU). Since 2016, President Schulz has guided WSU through a period of immense growth, advancing research, student success, and statewide partnerships. As he prepares for retirement, we honor his leadership and dedication to higher education in Washington State. Under President Schulz's tenure, WSU has strengthened its reputation as a world-class research institution, addressing critical challenges in agriculture, medicine, and clean energy. His efforts have ensured that students across our state have access to high-quality education, and his work with Washington's congressional delegation has helped secure funding for key university initiatives. Each of Washington's ten congressional districts has benefited from President Schulz's leadership, reinforcing WSU's role as an institution that serves all Washingtonians. I would like to highlight a few key impacts across the state. 1st District: WSU has built strong partnerships with the region's tech industry, working with companies in King and Snohomish counties to prepare students for careers in artificial intelligence, software development, and semiconductor manufacturing. These efforts ensure Washington remains at the forefront of technological advancement. 2nd District: WSU's agricultural extension programs in Northwest Washington have played a vital role in supporting farmers and sustaining fisheries in the region. WSU's Everett campus provides entrepreneurs critical business management skills and trains engineers for the world-class aerospace and high-tech industries in Northwest Washington. 3rd District: WSU Vancouver has expanded opportunities in STEM education, creating new pathways for students to enter high-demand fields like engineering and healthcare. By connecting with local industries and healthcare providers, WSU is strengthening Southwest Washington's workforce and economic outlook. 4th District: Home to some of the Nation's premier vineyards, Central Washington has benefited from WSU's viticulture and enology programs. Through cutting-edge research and collaboration with winemakers, WSU has [[Page E293]] helped the region maintain its reputation as a world-class wine producer. 5th District: WSU's Pullman campus is a cornerstone of agricultural research, and the completion of the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) building has only strengthened that legacy. The facility provides farmers and food producers with critical innovations in crop science and food security, supporting one of Washington's most essential industries. 6th District: WSU researchers have been at the forefront of sustainable forestry and climate resilience efforts. Their work supports the health of Washington's forests, which are vital for the economy, outdoor recreation, and the environment, ensuring these natural resources are protected for future generations. 7th District: WSU's collaborations with Seattle-area institutions have led to major advancements in medical research, including breakthroughs in cancer treatment and biomedical engineering. These efforts not only push the boundaries of science but also create opportunities for students to engage in life-changing research. 8th District: With a focus on clean energy, WSU has led the way in developing innovative hydroelectric, wind, and solar power solutions. These advancements have benefited communities across the Cascades, helping Washington transition to a more sustainable energy future. 9th District: The Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine has provided new opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds to enter the medical profession. By expanding access to healthcare education, WSU is addressing physician shortages and improving healthcare access across Washington. 10th District: Military families near Joint Base Lewis-McChord have benefited from WSU's extension programs, which provide educational support and workforce development opportunities. These initiatives ensure that service members and their families have access to the resources they need to succeed. Mr. Speaker, as President Schulz concludes his tenure, we recognize his transformative impact on Washington State University and our communities. His leadership has strengthened WSU's role as a center of innovation, education, and economic opportunity. I thank President Schulz for his years of service, and I look forward to seeing how WSU continues to grow and thrive in the years to come. ____________________