TITLE: Honoring Ambassador Ron Kirk for his service as United States Trade Representative.

SUMMARY: Honoring Ambassador Ron Kirk for his service as United States Trade Representative.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Ron Kirk stepped down as the United States Trade Representative on March 15, 2013, concluding four years of service as a member of President Barack Obama's cabinet; and WHEREAS, Mr. Kirk became the first African American to serve in that post when he was confirmed by the U.S. Senate in March 2009; as the president's chief advisor, negotiator, and spokesperson on issues concerning international trade, he led his office in developing and implementing a robust trade and investment strategy while establishing the United States as a conscientious voice on such issues as the environment and workers' rights; and WHEREAS, Recognizing the impact of trade policy on job creation, Ambassador Kirk directed efforts to expand market access for American goods and services; he oversaw the implementation of bilateral free trade agreements with Korea, Colombia, and Panama, the advancement of regional Trans-Pacific Partnership talks, and the productive engagement of the United States in the World Trade Organization; his accomplishments further include assisting small businesses seeking opportunities in foreign markets and strengthening intellectual property law at home and abroad; and WHEREAS, A native of Austin and a prominent name in Texas politics, Ron Kirk served as Texas Secretary of State under Governor Ann Richards, and he was elected to two terms as mayor of Dallas in the 1990s; he subsequently forged a successful career as a partner in the international law firm of Vinson & Elkins, and in 2008, he had the distinction of being named one of the "50 Most Influential Minority Lawyers in America" by the National Law Journal;and WHEREAS, Ambassador Kirk holds a bachelor's degree from Austin College and a juris doctorate from The University of Texas School of Law, and today he practices with Gibson Dunn; he enjoys the support of a loving family that includes his wife, Matrice Ellis-Kirk, and his daughters, Elizabeth Alexandra and Catherine Victoria, as well as his mother, veteran Austin civil rights advocate Willie Mae Kirk; and WHEREAS, Protecting our national interests in the global marketplace is an endeavor of vital import, and Ron Kirk may reflect proudly on the notable strides he made to ensure that American families and businesses can achieve prosperity now and into the future; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the 83rd Legislature of the State of Texas hereby honor Ron Kirk for his service as United States Trade Representative and extend to him sincere best wishes for continued success and happiness; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Ambassador Kirk as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives and Senate. Giddings President of the Senate Speaker of the House I certify that H.C.R. No. 116 was adopted by the House on May 8, 2013, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House I certify that H.C.R. No. 116 was adopted by the Senate on May 21, 2013, by a viva-voce vote. Secretary of the Senate APPROVED: Date Governor