Bill Text: VA SJR59 | 2022 | Regular Session | Enrolled
Bill Title: Commending Stephen J. Chantry.
Spectrum: Bipartisan Bill
Status: (Passed) 2022-01-31 - Bill text as passed Senate and House (SJ59ER) [SJR59 Detail]
Download: Virginia-2022-SJR59-Enrolled.html
WHEREAS, Stephen J. Chantry, a standout distance runner and esteemed education administrator, has contributed greatly to the Williamsburg community over many years; and
WHEREAS, Stephen Chantry's educational pursuits included a bachelor's degree from St. Lawrence University and master's and doctoral degrees from The College of William and Mary; and
WHEREAS, Stephen Chantry is a track and field legend in Williamsburg, who has received an age grading of more than 90 percent, indicating world-class caliber performance, in 40 different races throughout his career; and
WHEREAS, a two-time individual track and field world champion and a 22-time individual track and field national champion, Stephen Chantry also holds the distinction of being a triple national champion, winning the 3000-meter, mile, and 800-meter events at the USA Track & Field championships in 2006, 2013, and 2018; and
WHEREAS, in addition to his numerous titles, Stephen Chantry currently holds state records in the five kilometer event in both the men's 55-59 age category and the men's 65-69 age category, as well as a world record in the 4 x 800-meter relay event in both the men's 50-54 age category and the men's 60-64 age category; and
WHEREAS, a longtime member of the Colonial Road Runners, a nonprofit association promoting running in the Williamsburg area, Stephen Chantry has fostered a culture of health and fitness in his community; and
WHEREAS, Stephen Chantry had an illustrious 33-year career in public education, retiring as executive director for student services with Williamsburg James City County Public Schools after serving as principal of both Dozier Middle School and Reservoir Middle School with Newport News Public Schools and as a mentor for at-risk youth and families; and
WHEREAS, an innovative education leader, Stephen Chantry helped create one of the first web-based textbooks, helping school divisions reduce costs on learning materials, and was involved with several committees and organizations, such as Achievable Dream Academy; and
WHEREAS, Stephen Chantry's accomplishments both as a runner and an education administrator have brought great honor to Williamsburg and the Commonwealth; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the Senate, the House of Delegates concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend Stephen J. Chantry for his years of excellence both on the track and in the classroom; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Stephen J. Chantry as an expression of the General Assembly's admiration for his contributions to the Commonwealth.
