2025 SESSION

ENROLLED

HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 848

Celebrating the life of Carol J. Pretlow.

Agreed to by the House of Delegates, February 21, 2025

WHEREAS, Carol J. Pretlow, a tenured associate professor in the Department of Political Science at Norfolk State University, died on December 24, 2024, leaving a profound impact on the university community, her students, and the field of political science; and

WHEREAS, a native of Smithfield, Carol Pretlow was known for her dedication to her students and her passion for education, teaching constitutional law, international relations, and political theory for more than 30 years; and

WHEREAS, Carol Pretlow was a self-proclaimed “country girl,” whose strong sense of community and deep commitment to lifelong learning inspired countless students to engage critically with political issues and to think deeply about the world around them; and

WHEREAS, Carol Pretlow was involved in important research, including work for the U.S. Department of Defense under the auspices of Norfolk State University's Office of Sponsored Programs, which led her to found and direct the Consortium for Strategic and Global Studies; and

WHEREAS, Carol Pretlow represented Norfolk State University internationally, engaging with academic institutions in 19 countries across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and South America, fostering global academic collaboration; and

WHEREAS, in 2017, Carol Pretlow participated in a team of American professors under the Jewish Federation of America, Academic Partners for Peace, and worked on issues related to conflict, peacekeeping, and peacebuilding in Jerusalem in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict; and

WHEREAS, in 2018, Carol Pretlow participated in the National Security Law Institute at the University of Virginia, continuing to enhance her scholarship and expertise in national and international law; and

WHEREAS, Carol Pretlow held a bachelor's degree in political science from Fisk University, a master's degree in mass communications from Norfolk State University, and a juris doctor degree and master of laws in International Law from The American University Washington College of Law; and

WHEREAS, in addition to her academic contributions, Carol Pretlow was a regular member of the Another View Round Table, a nationally recognized talk show focused on issues impacting the African American community, and was deeply involved in social justice advocacy and the promotion of civic engagement, especially for marginalized communities; and

WHEREAS, Carol Pretlow's legacy is marked by her advocacy, mentorship, and her unwavering commitment to her students, colleagues, and the broader community; she is remembered for her kindness, her wisdom, and her tireless efforts to make the world a better place through education and action, as well as her exceptional contributions to social justice and the field of political science; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Delegates hereby note with great sadness the loss of Carol J. Pretlow, whose passion for education, advocacy, and service left an indelible mark on Norfolk State University and the countless lives she touched; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of Carol J. Pretlow as an expression of the House of Delegates' respect for her memory.