Floor Speech2026-06-02

TRIBUTE TO DR. JAMES GARY ADCOX

Context

On 2026-06-02, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) delivered a floor speech titled "TRIBUTE TO DR. JAMES GARY ADCOX" in the Senate.

Full Text

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 93 (Tuesday, June 2, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 93 (Tuesday, June 2, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S2494] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO DR. JAMES GARY ADCOX Mr. TILLIS. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize Dr. James Gary Adcox for a lifetime of service to our Nation, our veterans, and the field of higher education. A first-generation college student from Antioch, TN, Dr. Adcox exemplifies the power of hard work, perseverance, and service. He honorably served in the U.S. Air Force for 22 years, retiring after a distinguished career that included leadership positions at the U.S. Air Force Academy and Headquarters Space Command. Throughout his military service, he provided critical support to servicemembers, wounded warriors, refugees, and military communities around the world, earning the respect of colleagues and commanders alike. Following his retirement from the Air Force, Dr. Adcox dedicated more than two decades to advancing educational opportunity and student success. His leadership has been especially impactful for veterans, Active-Duty military personnel, first-generation students, and underserved communities. Through innovative programs such as the University of North Georgia's SOAR initiative and his work establishing support services for student veterans, he has helped countless individuals pursue their educational goals and achieve lasting success. Dr. Adcox has also contributed significantly to higher education policy and access through his service on numerous State and regional boards and task forces, helping strengthen opportunities for students across Tennessee and beyond. His many honors--including the Dr. John McCurdy Leadership Award, the President's Service Award, and his designation as president emeritus of the National Association of Branch Campus Administrators--reflect the extraordinary impact of his life's work. Dr. Adcox's career has been defined by leadership, service, and a steadfast commitment to helping others succeed. I am proud to recognize his contributions and thank him for the lasting difference he has made in the lives of students, veterans, and communities across our country. ____________________

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TRIBUTE TO DR. JAMES GARY ADCOX Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 93 (Tuesday, June 2, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 93 (Tuesday, June 2, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S2494] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO DR. JAMES GARY ADCOX Mr. TILLIS. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize Dr. James Gary Adcox for a lifetime of service to our Nation, our veterans, and the field of higher education. A first-generation college student from Antioch, TN, Dr. Adcox exemplifies the power of hard work, perseverance, and service. He honorably served in the U.S. Air Force for 22 years, retiring after a distinguished career that included leadership positions at the U.S. Air Force Academy and Headquarters Space Command. Throughout his military service, he provided critical support to servicemembers, wounded warriors, refugees, and military communities around the world, earning the respect of colleagues and commanders alike. Following his retirement from the Air Force, Dr. Adcox dedicated more than two decades to advancing educational opportunity and student success. His leadership has been especially impactful for veterans, Active-Duty military personnel, first-generation students, and underserved communities. Through innovative programs such as the University of North Georgia's SOAR initiative and his work establishing support services for student veterans, he has helped countless individuals pursue their educational goals and achieve lasting success. Dr. Adcox has also contributed significantly to higher education policy and access through his service on numerous State and regional boards and task forces, helping strengthen opportunities for students across Tennessee and beyond. His many honors--including the Dr. John McCurdy Leadership Award, the President's Service Award, and his designation as president emeritus of the National Association of Branch Campus Administrators--reflect the extraordinary impact of his life's work. Dr. Adcox's career has been defined by leadership, service, and a steadfast commitment to helping others succeed. I am proud to recognize his contributions and thank him for the lasting difference he has made in the lives of students, veterans, and communities across our country. ____________________