2026 SPECIAL SESSION I

INTRODUCED

26200172D

HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 2091

Offered June 13, 2026

Commending Melody Hackney, Ed.D.

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Patron—Dougherty

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WHEREAS, Melody Hackney, Ed.D., a distinguished education administrator who has served as superintendent of Hopewell City Public Schools for the past 10 years, will be retiring in September 2026; and

WHEREAS, Melody Hackney earned a bachelor's degree in special education, master's degrees in business administration and education administration, and a doctorate in education leadership, policy, and foundations from the University of Virginia in preparation for her career as an education administrator; and

WHEREAS, prior to joining Hopewell City Public Schools (HCPS), Melody Hackney served as a director of instruction, coordinator of alternative education services, principal, and special education teacher, then as the deputy superintendent of Mecklenburg County Public Schools for four years and superintendent of Charlotte County Public Schools for 10 years; and

WHEREAS, over the past decade with HCPS, Melody Hackney advanced curriculum initiatives such as project-based, real-life learning experiences and a year-round calendar to bolster her students' academic performance; and

WHEREAS, Melody Hackney worked tirelessly to nurture her students' health and well-being, improving safety and security within HCPS schools and spearheading a food bus program for Hopewell students in need; and

WHEREAS, Melody Hackney provided brave and inspired leadership throughout the COVID-19 crisis, helping HCPS students, teachers, and families navigate the unprecedented public health crisis; and

WHEREAS, Melody Hackney has prioritized supporting and developing meaningful relationships with HCPS faculty and staff, ensuring they have the resources and assistance they need to succeed in their classrooms and careers; and

WHEREAS, as a result of Melody Hackney's extraordinary efforts, all of HCPS schools received accreditation during her tenure as superintendent; and

WHEREAS, in recognition of her exemplary service, Melody Hackney was named the Superintendent of the Year by the Virginia Association of School Superintendents in 2021; and

WHEREAS, guided by her motto, “Unwavering HOPE until all the children are WELL!” Melody Hackney has made a profound and lasting impact on the Hopewell community that will reverberate for generations to come; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That Melody Hackney, Ed.D., superintendent of Hopewell City Public Schools, hereby be commended on the occasion of her retirement; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Melody Hackney, Ed.D., as an expression of the House of Delegates' admiration for her contributions to Hopewell and the Commonwealth and best wishes upon her retirement.