2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26109456D

HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 413

Offered March 12, 2026

Celebrating the life of Solomon Wilder Jefferson.

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Patrons—McQuinn, Cole, N.T., Cousins, Keys-Gamarra, Martinez, McPike, Rasoul, Schmidt, Ward and Ware

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WHEREAS, Solomon Wilder Jefferson, an esteemed educator and education administrator and beloved member of the Richmond community, died on November 24, 2025; and

WHEREAS, Solomon Jefferson attended Richmond Public Schools and graduated from Meadowbrook High School in Chesterfield County before earning a bachelor's degree from Radford University, a master's degree in education from Mercer University, and a master's degree in educational leadership from Georgia State University; and

WHEREAS, a lifelong learner committed to excellence, Solomon Jefferson was currently completing his doctor of education degree in educational leadership and innovation at Purdue Global University at the time of his passing; and

WHEREAS, in his professional career, Solomon Jefferson dedicated himself to the growth and well-being of young people as a mentor with Athletes for Jesus, a member of the Teach for America Corps, and an education and school leader in Henderson, North Carolina; New York City; and Atlanta; and

WHEREAS, Solomon Jefferson later made an impact in academic leadership roles in the Greater Richmond area, including as principal of L. Douglas Wilder Middle School in Henrico County and as chief academic officer for secondary education with Richmond Public Schools; and

WHEREAS, as an educator and education administrator, Solomon Jefferson focused on secondary academic leadership, educational equity and access, instructional leadership, and systems-level school improvement, making a profound and lasting difference in countless lives; and

WHEREAS, Solomon Jefferson will be fondly remembered and dearly missed by numerous family members and friends and by the many students and families he served; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Delegates hereby note with great sadness the loss of Solomon Wilder Jefferson, a treasured member of the Greater Richmond community whose legacy of integrity, devotion, and service will forever inspire all who knew him; 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 Solomon Wilder Jefferson as an expression of the House of Delegates' respect for his memory.