Parker, House pay tribute to late WSU President Dr. Elson Floyd

June 25, 2015

As lawmakers in Olympia wait for a budget agreement, the House of Representatives took time Thursday to honor the life and contributions of the late Washington State University President Elson Floyd. John Sattgast reports from the state Capitol.

Sattgast: House Resolution 4645 pays tribute to Dr. Elson Floyd, who died last Saturday at the age of 59.

Spokane Representative Kevin Parker said Dr. Floyd looked for opportunities to help young people access higher education. And when a young woman with no family and no money met with him and told her of a dream to become a journalist, Parker said Dr. Floyd not only listened, but made her attendance possible at Washington State University.

Parker: “The financial aid counselor comes back and says, 'Well, Melinda, I've. . . I've got good news for you. And not, not only have you been admitted, but apparently, you have received the Presidential Scholarship. Which means you're not just coming to this school, but you're coming to WSU at no charge. So Melinda had a good four years there. She studied there. She did pursue her dream of journalism. And today, she is a predominant news anchorwoman in Billings, Montana for one of the leading news stations.”

Sattgast: 6th District State Representative Kevin Parker, who said Dr. Elson Floyd brought enrollment to record levels at Washington State University and helped expand opportunities for students.

The resolution passed unanimously

John Sattgast, Olympia.