HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 2002-4705, by Representatives Alexander and DeBolt

      WHEREAS, It is the policy of the Washington State House of Representatives to recognize excellence in all fields of endeavor; and

      WHEREAS, Dr. Henry P. Kirk has served with distinction as President of Centralia College from 1986-2002; and

      WHEREAS, During that time, the College has grown in quality of programs and services, academic and technology offerings, faculty and staff, and in student enrollment and campus facilities; and

      WHEREAS, Under Dr. Henry P. Kirk's leadership, Centralia College has expanded into areas of Lewis and Thurston counties to increase access to provide individuals opportunity to build a better future for themselves and their families; and

      WHEREAS, Dr. Henry P. Kirk was instrumental in establishing the Centralia College East campus and retraining center for residents of East Lewis County affected by the downturn of the timber industry; and

      WHEREAS, Dr. Henry P. Kirk has provided professional leadership by serving as President of the Washington Community and Technical College Association and has been active in and has received recognition from state and national professional organizations; and

      WHEREAS, Dr. Henry P. Kirk has interacted positively and productively with the Washington State Legislature by participating in the legislative process and making presentations to committees; and

      WHEREAS, Dr. Henry P. Kirk has proven to be an innovative leader who has helped stimulate the economic development of the College service area by providing needed educational and training programs and by working as a member of the Lewis County Economic Development Council and other organizations promoting economic revitalization; and

      WHEREAS, Dr. Henry P. Kirk has actively strengthened the community by serving in leadership positions for the Centralia-Chehalis Chamber of Commerce, Providence Hospital Foundation, United Way, City of Chehalis Historic Preservation Commission, Leadership Lewis County, Westminster Presbyterian Church, and other community organizations; and

      WHEREAS, Dr. Henry P. Kirk has announced his intention to retire on June 30, 2002, having transformed Centralia College into an institution serving the community and training students for the 21st century and beyond;

      NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives commend Dr. Henry P. Kirk for his sixteen years as President of Centralia College, and forty years of service in higher education, and extend best wishes in his retirement effective June 30, 2002.

          I hereby certify this to be a true and correct copy of

         4705 Resolution adopted by the House of Representatives

                              March 8, 2002.

                      _____________________________

                       Cynthia Zehnder, Chief Clerk