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Congressional Daily Record
This section is a tribute, commemoration, or district-facing statement. It mentions members such as Victoria Spartz. Extensions of Remarks are statements submitted for the official record, even if they were not spoken live on the floor.
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July 16, 2026
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Extensions of Remarks
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Download official Extensions PDFReturn to issue contextHON. VICTORIA SPARTZ
of indiana
in the house of representatives
Mrs. SPARTZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Betty Louise Harrah of Delaware County, a Navy veteran and long-term Ball State University official, who celebrated her 100th birthday in March 2026. Born in Bloomington, Indiana, she was the only daughter of Herbert and Elsie Harrah and the second oldest of four children. After moving to Bloomfield at the age of two, she graduated from Bloomfield High School in 1944.
degree in government, and later pursued graduate study at Washington State University on a fellowship, working in the university's residence halls. She ultimately returned to Indiana University and completed her doctorate in 1969.
entered service in 1951 as an Ensign. She served our Nation with distinction for 35 years, retiring in 1986 at the rank of Commander, a groundbreaking achievement for that era. During her service, she trained in locations such as Newport, Rhode Island and Seattle, Washington. She often reflects that the travel and lessons in working with people were among the most formative parts of her career.
Harrah returned to Indiana and joined Ball State University, where she served as director of residence hall personnel until her retirement in 1986.
Village Nursing Home since 2002. She continues to stay active through puzzles and computer games. Those who know her describe her as remarkably tech-savvy even today. Family has always remained central in her life. Though her brothers have passed on, she maintains close relationships with her nieces and nephews, who speak of her with deep admiration and gratitude for the example she has set.
Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of Indiana's 5th District, I express profound appreciation to Dr. Betty Louise Harrah for her lifetime of service both in uniform and in higher education. Her dedication, leadership, and integrity have left a lasting impact on all who have known her.