2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26107107D

HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 144

Offered February 19, 2026

Commending Andrew Billingsley, Ph.D.

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Patron—Ward

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WHEREAS, Andrew Billingsley, Ph.D., an eminent scholar, educator, author, and higher education leader of national distinction, celebrates the remarkable milestone of his 100th birthday in 2026, marking a century of extraordinary contributions to academia, public service, and the advancement of knowledge; and

WHEREAS, born in 1926, Andrew Billingsley devoted his life to expanding educational opportunity and understanding the social dynamics of American communities, particularly through his pioneering scholarship on African American families, social structures, and community resilience; and

WHEREAS, Andrew Billingsley served with distinction as president of Morgan State University from 1975 to 1984, where his visionary leadership strengthened academic programs, expanded institutional capacity, and elevated the university's national reputation as a premier historically Black institution of higher education; and

WHEREAS, throughout his distinguished career, Andrew Billingsley held faculty and leadership positions at Howard University, the University of Maryland, and other esteemed institutions, mentoring countless students and shaping generations of scholars, educators, and leaders; and

WHEREAS, as an accomplished author, Andrew Billingsley produced numerous influential publications that deepened the nation's understanding of family systems, community development, and the social forces shaping American life, leaving a lasting intellectual legacy; and

WHEREAS, Andrew Billingsley's life reflects a steadfast commitment to excellence, equity, and service, embodying the highest ideals of scholarship and civic responsibility; and

WHEREAS, Andrew Billingsley reaching the extraordinary milestone of 100 years of age provides an opportunity to reflect upon and appreciate a life lived with purpose and integrity that has made an enduring impact on society; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That Andrew Billingsley, Ph.D., hereby be commended on the occasion of his 100th birthday in recognition of his distinguished career, scholarly achievements, and lasting contributions to higher education and American society; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Andrew Billingsley, Ph.D., as an expression of the House of Delegates' admiration and best wishes for continued health, happiness, and fulfillment.