Bill Text: VA HJR653 | 2025 | Regular Session | Introduced
Bill Title: Commending Tiffany McKillip Franks, Ed.D.
Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Republican 3-0)
Status: (Passed) 2025-02-19 - Agreed to by Senate by voice vote [HJR653 Detail]
Download: Virginia-2025-HJR653-Introduced.html
2025 SESSION
INTRODUCED
25106925D
HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 653
Offered February 12, 2025
Commending Tiffany McKillip Franks, Ed.D.
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Patrons—Marshall; Senator: Mulchi
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WHEREAS, Tiffany McKillip Franks, Ed.D., who has served with distinction as president of Averett University for the past 17 years, retired from her position with the institution in January 2025; and
WHEREAS, in preparation for her career, Tiffany Franks earned a bachelor's degree in business from Ohio Dominican University, a master's degree in education from The Ohio State University, and a doctor of education degree in higher education management from the University of Pennsylvania; and
WHEREAS, prior to joining Averett University, Tiffany Franks acquired valuable experience in higher education administration through executive positions in the areas of admissions, financial aid, student life, marketing and communications, public relations, and fundraising, as well as in her role as executive vice president at Greensboro College; and
WHEREAS, on July 1, 2008, Tiffany Franks became president of Averett University, making history as the first woman to lead the institution since its founding in 1859; and
WHEREAS, during Tiffany Franks' tenure, Averett University achieved record-high enrollment in its undergraduate program, completed its first comprehensive capital campaign, opened its Riverview Campus in Danville, and added various new degree programs and activities; and
WHEREAS, Tiffany Franks' fundraising efforts on behalf of Averett University helped to secure nearly $40 million, which has supported a significant expansion in the area of health sciences as well as major facility upgrades; and
WHEREAS, Tiffany Franks spearheaded the launch of new academic programs in the areas of nursing, criminal justice, applied data analytics, and education, enhancing Averett University's ability to prepare its students for the careers of tomorrow; and
WHEREAS, Tiffany Franks has improved the quality of life on Averett University's campus with the introduction of new intercollegiate athletics programs, such as men's and women's lacrosse, wrestling, and esports, and with the establishment of the Center for Community Engagement and Career Competitiveness, which helps to connect students, faculty, and staff with community partners in the Dan River region; and
WHEREAS, Tiffany Franks' accomplishments as an education leader are the result of her hard work, steadfast dedication, and unwavering commitment to the students, staff, and community of Averett University; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend Tiffany McKillip Franks, Ed.D., on the occasion of her retirement as president of Averett University; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Tiffany McKillip Franks, Ed.D., as an expression of the General Assembly's admiration for her contributions to higher education in the Commonwealth.
