Hartford Courant I-Towns: Rep. Kirkly-Bey Receives Lifetime Achievement Award From Children's Group

Link:
Hartford Courant I-Towns Article
Date:
April, 2012
Abstract:
Rep. Marie Lopez Kirkley-Bey (D-Hartford) was honored as one of two legislators receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award from the CT Early Childhood Alliance on April 27. Kirkley-Bey, along with Rep. Jack Thompson (D-Manchester) both plan to retire this year.
Author:
Rose Ryan, CT House Democrats

The Connecticut Early Childhood Alliance bestowed its "Lifetime Achievement Award" on Deputy Speaker Marie Lopez Kirkley-Bey (D-Hartford) recently at a ceremony at the State Capitol.

"Rep. Kirkley-Bey has been unwavering in her commitment to children and families, and her work has focused on solving the issues of poverty through education and economic stability," said Maggie Adair, Executive Director of the Connecticut Early Childhood Alliance. "She is our lifetime achievement recipient because of the long-standing commitment she has made to children and family issues during her tenure in the Connecticut House of Representatives."

Rep. Kirkley-Bey, serving her 10th term representing Hartford's Asylum Hill and Northend neighborhoods in the legislature, is the first and only woman of color to serve as Deputy Speaker.

"I congratulate the Alliance for having the wisdom to honor a woman who has spent a lifetime fighting for opportunities for children," said House Speaker Christopher G. Donovan (D-Meriden). "She has been a strong voice for the children and families of Connecticut for 20 years in the legislature, and I know her voice will continue to be heard."

The Connecticut Early Childhood Alliance is a group of organizations and individuals committed to improving developmental outcomes in the areas of learning, health, safety and economic security for children ages birth to eight. Member organizations provide care and education for nearly 20,000 children. The Alliance's goal is for all children born in Connecticut to enter kindergarten healthy, eager to learn, and ready for school success.