TITLE: Recognizing Rod Paige on the occasion of his 90th birthday.

SUMMARY: Recognizing Rod Paige on the occasion of his 90th birthday.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize Dr. Rod Paige on the grand occasion of his 90th birthday, which is being celebrated with a gathering of his friends and family on June 17, 2023; and WHEREAS, An esteemed educator and administrator, Dr. Paige served as the United States Secretary of Education from 2001 to 2005 under President George W. Bush; he championed the No Child Left Behind Act and helped raise national standards of excellence in public education; after his service as secretary of education, he held a position as a public policy fellow at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars; and WHEREAS, Dr. Paige served as dean of the Texas Southern University College of Education and as the superintendent of the Houston Independent School District; he was the first African American to serve in that position, and in 2001, the American Association of School Administrators named him as National Superintendent of the Year; his unique style of leadership and his innovative approach to education established him as a revered figure in educational administration, and he has received many awards and accolades for his professional accomplishments; and WHEREAS, A resident of Houston, Rod is a loving husband to his wife, Stephanie Nellons-Paige, and a proud father of his two children; his wisdom, his generous spirit, and the enthusiasm with which he approaches life are a source of inspiration to those around him, and his 90th birthday is indeed a fitting occasion for his loved ones to express their admiration and affection; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th Legislature, 2nd Called Session, hereby recognize Dr. Rod Paige as a treasured citizen of the Lone Star State and extend to him congratulations and best wishes on the joyous occasion of his 90th birthday; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for him as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate. West President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on July 11, 2023.