2026 SPECIAL SESSION I

INTRODUCED

26200118D

HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 2071

Offered April 28, 2026

Commending Stephen J. Farnsworth.

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Patron—Cole, J.G.

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WHEREAS, Stephen J. Farnsworth has served as a professor of political science and international affairs and as director of the Center for Leadership and Media Studies at the University of Mary Washington, contributing to the academic and civic life of the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, Stephen Farnsworth earned a doctorate and master's degree in government from Georgetown University and holds bachelor's degrees from Dartmouth College and the University of Missouri–Kansas City, establishing a strong academic foundation for his career in teaching and research; and

WHEREAS, during his tenure at the University of Mary Washington, Stephen Farnsworth has played a key role in advancing public understanding of government, media, and politics through teaching, research, and public engagement; and

WHEREAS, Stephen Farnsworth has contributed to the political life of the Fredericksburg region and the Commonwealth by organizing and moderating candidate debates and public forums, helping to promote informed and nonpartisan civic engagement; and

WHEREAS, Stephen Farnsworth is the author or coauthor of numerous books and scholarly articles on the presidency, political communication, and public opinion and has provided commentary on political issues in regional, national, and international media outlets; and

WHEREAS, Stephen Farnsworth has been recognized for excellence in teaching and scholarship, including receiving the Virginia Outstanding Faculty Award from the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia and multiple teaching awards from the University of Mary Washington; and

WHEREAS, throughout his career, Stephen Farnsworth has mentored students and colleagues and has prepared generations of students for careers in public service, journalism, and related fields; and

WHEREAS, through his work as an educator, scholar, and public commentator, Stephen Farnsworth has strengthened civic understanding and engagement in the Commonwealth; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That Stephen J. Farnsworth hereby be commended on the occasion of his retirement from the University of Mary Washington for his contributions to education, scholarship, and public service; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Stephen J. Farnsworth as an expression of the House of Delegates' admiration for his service to the University of Mary Washington and the Commonwealth.