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Good afternoon. I’m Patrick Corvington. When I raised my right hand to be sworn in
as the new CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service, I experienced one of
the proudest moments of my life.
As someone who came to this country as a teenager, and worked long hours to create a better life
for myself and my family, it was not obvious to me that I would be in this position some
day. But that is the promise of America.
I arrived on these shores with the loving support of my family and through their steady
encouragement, a love of learning, and a desire to give back, I found my calling. I have devoted
20 years to serving people and helping organizations become more effective at solving problems.
America’s greatness is built not just on our laws and leaders, but on a fundamental
belief in fairness and merit, and the extraordinary acts of everyday citizens. Americans have
always believed in the idea that we can change things, we can make things better, when we
join together.
Today, as so many Americans face hardship, we need that spirit more than ever.
For decades you have been on the frontlines – bringing hope and caring to our most
vulnerable citizens. I know how fulfilling – and how trying -- this work can be.
From my days working with migrant farmworkers in Ft. Pierce, Florida, driving the small
towns around Lake Okeechobee, to the eastern shore of Maryland and later as a caseworker
in the streets and housing projects of Baltimore City, I understand what it means to toil in
a nonprofit with diminished resources but amplified hope. I also understand the need
to demonstrate impact, embrace innovation, and achieve management excellence, and will
make these a priority as we move ahead.
This is a historic moment for service. With the leadership of President Obama, the bipartisan
support of Congress, historic funding for our programs, and a growing consensus that
service is a solution, we stand at the dawn of a new era of service in America.
This country has been very good to me and my family. There are few prouder moments then
when sixteen years ago, on a warm Baltimore morning in May, I raised my right hand and
pledged allegiance to this country and became an American citizen. When I again raised my
hand and pledged to serve, I felt that same sense of pride.
I am honored and excited to begin our work together.
Thank you.