The Honorable Donna F. Edwards
In Tribute to Dr. Sarah Moten
July 24, 2013
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the life and work of Dr. Sarah Moten, a woman who dedicated her life to furthering the causes of education and development in Africa. Dr. Moten passed away Tuesday, July 9, 2013. Dr. Moten will be missed, but her legacy lives on in the lives of those she touched through her work. Her prolific career in federal and international agencies and organizations serves as an inspiration for all of us who strive to impact others’ lives in a positive way.
Dr. Sarah Moten was an accomplished academic. She earned a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Hampton University, a Master’s in Education, Guidance, and Counseling from George Washington University, and a Doctorate in Education, Administration and Supervision from Clark Atlanta University. She was awarded honorary doctorates from Elizabeth City State University, Chicago State University, and the University of Massachusetts Boston. Dr. Moten also served as the Director of International Affairs at the University of the District of Columbia.
Dr. Moten was dedicated to uplifting children in Africa through education, with particular regard to equal access to education for girls. In her decades-long career, Dr. Moten worked tirelessly as Country Director in Swaziland, Kenya and Sierra Leone and also as Special Assistant to the Africa Director for the U.S. Peace Corps. In addition, Dr. Moten served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Refugee Assistance at the Department of State. She also served as Special Assistant to the President Emerita for the National Council of Negro Women, the Coordinator of the Education Democracy Development Initiative for Africa, and the Chief for the U.S. Agency for International Development’s Africa Bureau Office of Sustainable Development, Education Division, among other notable positions.
Dr. Moten’s continuous work on areas including education, refugee affairs, diplomacy, and economic development influenced countless lives and earned her a reputation as one of the greatest champions for Africa.
For her work, Dr. Sarah Moten was awarded the Medal of Freedom by the Foundation for Democracy in Africa, the Worldwide Award for Women in Education and Government by Swarthmore College, the Outstanding Partners in Education Award by World Education, the Distinguished Leadership Award from Boston University's African Presidential Archives and Research Center, and the John L. Withers Memorial Award from USAID, among other distinguished recognitions.
During this time of bereavement, I hope all who grieve find comfort and peace in remembering the profound impact Dr. Moten had on so many. Dr. Moten will live on through those who knew her and through those who were touched by her work.
Mr. Speaker, today we remember and celebrate the life of a generous and remarkable woman. I send my thoughts and prayers to all who knew Dr. Sarah Moten and all who mourn her loss.
