2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26108097D

HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 173

Offered February 24, 2026

Commending Elisha Harris.

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Patrons—Hayes, Callsen, Cole, J.G., Cole, N.T., Keys-Gamarra, Maldonado, McQuinn and Rasoul; Senators: Bagby and Williams Graves

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WHEREAS, Elisha Harris is a distinguished educator, mentor, and coach whose more than four decades of service have profoundly impacted students, athletes, and communities throughout the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, a graduate of Norfolk State University with a bachelor's degree in health, physical education, and driver's education and a master's degree in administration and supervision from George Washington University, Elisha “Cadillac” Harris has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to education and leadership; and

WHEREAS, Cadillac Harris served with distinction at Green Run High School in Virginia Beach, Indian River High School in Chesapeake, Matthew Fontaine Maury High School in Norfolk, Elizabeth City State University, and Norfolk State University, becoming the first African American head football coach in the City of Virginia Beach and earning recognition for his transformational leadership; and

WHEREAS, Cadillac Harris' enduring legacy was formally recognized in 2023 with the renaming of the Green Run High School stadium as the Elisha “Cadillac” Harris Stadium and through numerous honors, including the Virginia Beach Champion of H.O.P.E. Award, the NAACP Champion of Change award, and induction into the Norfolk State University Athletics Hall of Fame; and

WHEREAS, through mentorship, youth camps, character development programs, and community service, Cadillac Harris has empowered generations of young people to achieve excellence academically, athletically, and personally; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend Elisha Harris for his extraordinary contributions to education, athletics, mentorship, and community service and for his lasting positive influence on the Commonwealth; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Elisha Harris as an expression of the General Assembly's admiration and gratitude for his contributions to the Commonwealth.