Recognizing ``Fiu in Washington, D.c.'' Opening A New Student and Research Showcase Center in Our Nation's Capital

Floor Speech

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Mr. GIMENEZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the opening of Florida International University's new student and research showcase center in Washington, D.C. Over the last four decades, FIU has grown exponentially to become one of the top universities in the state of Florida. It is now one of the fastest-rising universities in the nation. Today's opening ceremony is yet another example of how the university continues to invest in its students well beyond South Florida.

This new facility--a first-of-its-kind academic and briefing center-- is part of an integrated advocacy approach called ``FIU in Washington, D.C.'' It aims at both further developing FIU's national reputation and expanding federal support for the university's preeminent programs. The 5,000 square foot space will give FIU students studying and interning in D.C. access to federal research programs and other resources. It will also allow FIU faculty to collaborate with federal partners and showcase the impact of their research on several areas of study that especially pertain to South Floridians--including environmental and coastal resilience, population health, Latin America and the Caribbean, defense-related engineering technologies, and STEM research.

In addition, the research center will allow students, faculty, and alumni to host national workshops and conferences tailored towards federal policy initiatives. Its proximity to the United States Capitol will give FIU student-interns a better grasp of current legislation, as well as the chance to meet with elected officials. This new center will push the university further to the forefront of national excellence. I am proud to represent Florida International University and look forward to seeing it continue to expand and excel in our Nation's capital. Go Panthers.

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