The publication is reproduced in full below:
HONORING THE RETIREMENT OF REVEREND DR. DeFOREST B. SOARIES
______
HON. BONNIE WATSON COLEMAN
of new jersey
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, November 23, 2021
Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Reverend Dr. DeForest B. Soaries on his retirement as the spiritual leader and senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens in Somerset, New Jersey. As a pioneer in the faith-based community, Dr. Soaries shared his teachings of spiritual growth, educational excellence, and economic development for the last three decades.
Reverend Soaries served not just his flock, but as the first African American man to hold the prestigious position of New Jersey's Secretary of State, he led the entire great State of New Jersey. Dr. Soaries devoted his time to implementing grassroots initiatives to enhance the quality of life for thousands of New Jersey residents. Bridging the gap between underserved communities and voting accessibility as former chairman of the United States Election Assistance Commission, he assisted Congress in establishing the Help America Vote Act of 2002. Dr. Soaries has worked tirelessly to pave the way for the next generation of civic leaders through his numerous community initiatives to free individuals from the burden of debt by launching the dfree Financial Freedom Movement and currently serves as an independent director at three companies: Independence Realty Trust, Federal Home Loan Bank of New York, and Ocwen Financial Corporation.
I applaud Dr. Soaries for his outstanding accomplishments and commitment to creating opportunities for economic empowerment in our state. On behalf of the state of New Jersey, I would like to formally congratulate Reverend Dr. DeForest B. Soaries on his retirement and wish him the very best as he embarks on his next chapter of life.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 203
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