WHEREAS, Beverly Johnson, a Gospel music recording artist, evangelist, and inspirational community leader, has touched the lives of countless Virginians through her exceptional talent, unwavering faith, and commitment to empowering others; and

WHEREAS, Beverly "Bev" Johnson holds bachelor's and master's degrees from H.E. Wood Bible Institute and Theological Seminary and is the founder of My Praise, My Worship Music & Arts Ministry, which supports various artistic expressions, offers scholarships for high school students to higher education, and hosts an annual concert to showcase top Gospel singers from Northern Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Maryland; and

WHEREAS, Bev Johnson released her first gospel album, "My Praise, My Worship," in 2009, then a Christmas single, "Have Yourself a Merry Christmas with a Little Love and Jazz," in 2012; she followed up with her second album, "It's In You," in 2019 and another Christmas single and music video, "We Give You Praise," in 2020; and

WHEREAS, Bev Johnson's music has been featured on several radio and television programs, and she has appeared at the Stellar Awards, opened for Vivica A. Fox at a Virginia Black History Month Association event, and performed on the Kennedy Center Millennium Stage, in addition to other prestigious venues; and

WHEREAS, Bev Johnson's captivating performances and profound lyrics have helped listeners deepen their faith and renew their commitment to ministry and community engagement; and

WHEREAS, in addition to her career in music, Bev Johnson is an active leader with many civic and service organizations, including the Prince William County Chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women and The Dale City-Prince William Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction, where she serves as the Chaplain, as well as at her home church, First Mount Zion Baptist Church of Dumfries, where she serves in the music department; and

WHEREAS, Bev Johnson has inspired and empowered countless young people to hone their musical talents and pursue their passions by serving as a mentor at Jenkins Elementary School in Woodbridge and at high schools in Prince William County and in Fredericksburg; she is also currently writing a motivational book, Her Glory, which offers inspirational advice for young women; and

WHEREAS, Bev Johnson has earned numerous awards and accolades over the years, including the Dale City Multicultural Professional Leadership Award and the Most Influential Women's Award, sponsored by G3 Community Services, for her work in the Stafford County region; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That Beverly Johnson hereby be commended for her accomplishments as a Gospel singer, devoted evangelist, and passionate community leader; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Beverly Johnson as an expression of the House of Delegates' admiration for her personal and professional achievements in service to others.