Bill Text: VA SR175 | 2024 | Regular Session | Enrolled
Bill Title: Commending Linda Deans, Ph.D.
Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Democrat 1-0)
Status: (Passed) 2024-03-08 - Bill text as passed Senate (SR175ER) [SR175 Detail]
Download: Virginia-2024-SR175-Enrolled.html
WHEREAS, Linda Deans, Ph.D., a distinguished educator and education administrator and consultant, made history in 2023 by becoming the first African American woman to be elected to serve on the Loudoun County School Board; and
WHEREAS, after enduring many hardships growing up in segregated Goldsboro, North Carolina, Linda Deans earned a scholarship to North Carolina Central University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in biology; and
WHEREAS, Linda Deans taught science for a number of years in Goldsboro before earning a doctoral degree in urban education and leadership and a master's degree in guidance and counseling at Old Dominion University; and
WHEREAS, for 30 years, Linda Deans served Hampton City Schools (HCS) as a science and special education teacher, assistant principal, principal, and assistant superintendent, working tirelessly to foster the growth and development of her students and to support her fellow faculty members; and
WHEREAS, Linda Deans returned to North Carolina after retiring from HCS and served as the education director for an adolescent psychiatric unit at Cherry Hospital in Goldsboro, where she was recognized for her leadership and accomplishments, including enabling approximately 50 young adults to achieve their high school or General Educational Development diplomas; and
WHEREAS, Linda Deans moved to Loudoun County in 2015 and continues to serve as an education consultant, offering exceptional experience and expertise on a volunteer and professional basis to organizations committed to improving education and the quality of life of all children and families; and
WHEREAS, as chair of the Loudoun County School Board's Equity Committee, Linda Dean advocates for equitable educational opportunities and for learning environments that are inclusive, safe, caring, and supportive of all students; and
WHEREAS, Linda Deans has exemplified the highest virtues of the education profession throughout her career and promises to make a meaningful and lasting impact on Loudoun County Public Schools during her tenure on the Loudoun County School Board; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the Senate of Virginia, That Linda Deans, Ph.D., hereby be commended for her legacy of service and for making history as the first African American woman on the Loudoun County School Board; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Linda Deans, Ph.D., as an expression of the Senate of Virginia's admiration for her contributions to the Commonwealth and best wishes for her continued success.
