February 15, 1983
It gives me great pleasure to sign S. 61, a bill to designate areas within and adjacent to the ``Old
Post Office Building'' on Pennsylvania Avenue NW., in Washington, D.C., as the ``Nancy Hanks
Center.''
Nancy Hanks served with distinction as Chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts from
1969 to 1977. Hers was a strong and effective voice both for the arts and for safeguarding the
creative integrity of artists and arts institutions.
The proposed Nancy Hanks Center would include the Old Post Office Building on Pennsylvania
Avenue, the plaza adjoining the building, and the public use spaces within the Old Post Office,
including the Pavilion and the clock observation tower. This designation is particularly apt since
the renovation of the Old Post Office, its occupancy this year by Federal cultural agencies and
commercial enterprises, and its exhibits are due in large measure to the talent and vigor of Nancy
Hanks.
I am happy to sign this legislation honoring, in a lasting and appropriate way, a public servant who
made major contributions to the cultural life of our nation.
Note: As enacted, S. 61 is Public Law 98 - 1, approved February 15.