Last night our D.C. Fly-In delegation had the opportunity to recognize, thank, and celebrate Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers and her family for her 20 years of service and leadership in congress and 30 years of service on behalf of Washington State and Eastern Washington.
During dinner, GSI CEO Alisha Benson presented the Congresswoman with the inaugural Rich Hadley Memorial Community Advocate Award for her tireless advocacy on behalf of the Spokane Region in keeping with the values exemplified by Rich Hadley of extraordinary vision, impeccable teamwork, and maximal impact. The Congresswoman was honored for her partnership with GSI and our regional delegation, her long-standing friendship with Rich, and her advocacy on key issues including Fairchild Air Force Base, veterans and military families, protection of the lower Snake River Dams, investment in rural healthcare and the growth of graduate medical education, transportation funding including the North Spokane corridor, and commitment to small business entrepreneurship and growth.
This award will be given annually to a business, nonprofit, or public sector leader who has demonstrated a commitment to growing the Spokane regional economy through state, federal, and local advocacy. The ideal recipient will have advanced a cause of regional importance and/or has demonstrated a track record of advocating on behalf of economic growth and vitality for the Spokane region. The recipient shall reflect and epitomize Rich’s values of a sustained vision for the future and extraordinary teamwork on behalf of their cause.
For more information on Rich Hadley, read A Rich Legacy to Remember.