On the recordDecember 1, 2015
I rise today to pay tribute to Governor Olene Walker, Utah's 15th Governor, who passed away on Saturday, November 28, 2015, at the age of 85. She was the first woman to serve as Utah's Governor, worked as Lieutenant Governor for over 11 years, and was a member of the Utah Legislature for 8 years. Olene Walker will be remembered and revered by Utahns not because of the many firsts she pioneered in politics but for her commitment to leave a legacy of public and, more importantly, private service based on principles that truly last. Olene Walker's life and career were centered in the principles of lifelong learning, selfless service, and making a difference through civil discourse and meaningful dialogue. Governor Walker believed that the best way to open a mind was to read a book. Immediately upon becoming Governor, she launched her Read With a Child Program, focused on getting adults to read with a child for 20 minutes every day. She knew that 20 minutes of daily reading would not only transform children across the State by getting them to read at or above grade level, but it would transport them to magical places, big ideas, and brighter futures. Because she became Governor at the age of 73--and as a grandmother--I think she also recognized that 20 minutes of reading with a child would inspire the adults in the State of Utah as well. Governor Walker was never far from a book or a group of children to read to, often choosing her personal favorite from Dr.…
