[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 151 (2005), Part 3] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages 4172-4173] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]HONORING DOCTOR DENNIS W. ROWE FOR RECEIVING THE BLACK ENGINEER OF THE YEAR AWARD FOR PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT ______ HON. TOM DAVIS of virginia in the house of representatives Wednesday, March 9, 2005 Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Dennis W. Rowe for receiving the Black Engineer of the Year Award for professional achievement. Dr. Rowe has mentored many children through the Reach For Tomorrow, Inc. (RFT) program. In 2000, Dr. Rowe took initiative to establish the RFT program in Prince William County, Virginia. Since the program's inception, he has worked diligently with county officials in order to obtain necessary funding for their efforts. Through the RFT program, Dr. Rowe enables students to realize the practical applications of the subjects they are learning as well as the impact of scholastic achievement. Students spend a week in the summer focusing on career exploration, which includes time at college campuses where students are given ``hands on'' experiences in the areas of science and engineering. Dr. Rowe encourages students to improve in three specific areas: attitude, achievement and attendance. As a result of their RTF experience, most students show a significant shift in their attitudes toward education. Dr. Rowe also encourages students to develop a resume during their high school years which highlights their participation in extracurricular activities. In addition, he encourages students to give back to their surrounding community. [[Page 4173]] Dr. Rowe has touched the lives of numerous students and educators. He should be honored and commended for his dedication to the RFT program and the surrounding community. Through his instruction and guidance, Dr. Rowe has enabled students to realize their potential and become successful adults. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Dr. Rowe for his years of service and dedication to the Northern Virginia community. His contributions and efforts are noted and greatly appreciated. ____________________