Senate Concurrent Resolution 688

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE LEGACY OF PUBLIC SERVICE OF DAVID TEDFORD, RESPECTED DIRECTOR OF VOCATIONAL SERVICES AND "CAMPUS HISTORIAN" AT BOSWELL REGIONAL CENTER, ON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT.

WHEREAS, we commend the record of achievement and legacy of dedication of David Tedford, longtime Director of Vocational Services and unofficial "Campus Historian" at Boswell, who has announced his retirement; and

WHEREAS, David Tedford was born in Glendale, California, the son of L.D. and Pat Tedford, and little brother of JoAnn. Shortly after David's birth, his family returned to Magee, Mississippi, where he grew up. David lived just across the railroad tracks from what was at that time the Mississippi State Tuberculosis Sanatorium and was a frequent visitor on the grounds. He played with the children in the Preventorium, went to movies at the Auditorium, and even played golf with Dr. Boswell; and

WHEREAS, after graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1971 with various business degrees, he returned to Magee to work with his family at the famous "Ted's Swap Shop." The business gave David an opportunity to help others in the community and around the state. As the Vice President of the region's Jaycees, he, along with Dr. Paul Cotten, helped establish the Jaycee Evaluation Center at Ellisville State School, which is still in operation; and

WHEREAS, David came to work at Boswell in 1985 as Director of Vocational Services. At the time, individuals were working on arts and crafts projects, but Dr. Paul Cotten, Director of Boswell at the time, wanted the individuals to be involved in "real work." Through a lot of hard work, both his own and that of his staff, David turned the vocational program into one of the most productive in the United States. Companies now seek him out for contracts because of his long-standing reputation for excellent work; and

WHEREAS, David also played a vast role in establishing the Sanatorium Museum on Boswell Regional Center's Campus. Even though Mr. Tedford shrugs off the title "Campus Historian," he is a walking encyclopedia of the varied history of Boswell Regional Center, formerly the Sanatorium; and

WHEREAS, David married Marinell Gardner in 1996. They have shared the same enthusiasm of helping people at Boswell Regional Center. David has spent over 30 years of his life making the lives of people with intellectual disabilities more productive and meaningful. His compassion and dedication to his job and the individuals served is unprecedented and will never be forgotten. David's legacy is one of great passion and care for others, and he should be commended for his efforts as a wonderful example for public servants:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby commend the legacy of public service of David Tedford, respected Director of Vocational Services and "Campus Historian" at Boswell Regional Center, on the occasion of his retirement, and extend our best wishes to David and his family in his future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to David Tedford and his family, forwarded to the Executive Director of the Department of Mental Health, and made available to the Capitol Press Corps.