On behalf of the Florida Commission on the Status of Women (FCSW), FCSW Commissioner Thelma V. Crump presented former Florida U.S. Congresswoman and FCSW Hall of Fame Member Carrie P. Meek with a proclamation for her outstanding service to the State of Florida during Florida A&M University’s “4th Annual Roast and Toast Gala” held on November 10 at the Leon County Civic Center. Congresswoman Meek, a FAMU graduate, was this year’s honoree, and the FCSW presented a $300 donation in her honor at the event.

According to event organizers, proceeds from this year’s Gala will be used for scholarships for Leon County high school seniors who plan to attend FAMU, as well as summer scholarships for incoming FAMU football players. Some of the proceeds will also go to Tallahassee students invited to participate in FAMU’s Famed Marching 100 Summer Band Camp.

In 1991, after taking office, Governor Lawton Chiles lobbied the Florida Legislature to create the FCSW. Congresswoman Meek (then Senator Meek), with the late Representative Elaine Gordon, sponsored legislation in both the House and Senate to create the FCSW.

As a member of the U.S. Congress, Congresswoman Meek spearheaded efforts to create new jobs through federal and private sector initiatives, and she used her resources in government to promote economic opportunity for Florida’s diverse population. Although Congresswoman Meek is no longer in office, she continues to have an impact on Florida’s political landscape and to help promote programs that create new jobs. Considered to be one of the more influential statesman in Florida’s history, she remains passionately committed to uplifting and educating all citizens.

During her recognition at the Gala, Congresswoman Meek said, “This has been one of the best things to ever happen to me. I am so overwhelmed.””

[U.S.Congresswoman Carrie P. Meek left, and FCSW Commissioner Thelma V. Crump at Florida A&M University’s 4th Annual Toast and Toast. Congresswoman Meek was the year’s honoree.]