Highlights from Community Events & Meetings

Last Friday morning, I joined the final 2023 Broadband Advisory Council meeting. The meeting included a “Broadband 101” presentation for new members and the public, as well as updates on Virginia Telecommunication Initiative Project, expanding broadband equity, access, and deployment projects, and an overview of the Virginia Digital Opportunity Plan. 

Later that morning, I presented to the 2023-2024 VCU Hubert H. Humphrey Fellows. This program brings accomplished professionals and researchers from around the world to the United States to study, build on their practical professional experiences, and experience American culture.

Additionally, last Friday, my staff joined the Maggie Walker Robotics Team, The Mech Tech Dragons, for their legislative open house. Students in the robotics team learn industry-transferable skills in STEM and leadership skills, which are reflected in their competition successes. Earlier this year, the students competed in an international robotics competition in Austin, Texas, a first for the Mech Tech Dragons.

Saturday evening, I joined the Chesterfield County Democratic Committee (CCDC) for its annual Snowflake Soiree to celebrate our county's success in recent local and state elections. It was great to connect with friends, supporters, and other officials, including Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan, Delegate-elect Mike Jones, Clerk of Court-elect Amanda Pohl (pictured), CCDC leadership, outstanding volunteers, and many others. 

On Monday afternoon, a few current Senators gathered in the Capitol for a Pro Forma Session, in order to officially and formally adjourn the two Special Sessions sine die. Senator Jeremy McPike (pictured) presided over the Chamber. 

On Monday evening, I joined Delegate-elect Mark Earley at the Chesterfield Technical Education Center for the Virginia Board of Education Stakeholder Listening Session on Accountability. Over the past 18 months, the Virginia Board of Education has studied accountability policies, engaged the public and local school leadership. The Board will be presenting its findings and recommendations soon.

 On Tuesday morning, I attended Chamber RVA’s annual Legislative Breakfast with several other Richmond-area legislators. Delegate Carrie Coyner and I were asked to speak that morning on the upcoming General Assembly session, its upcoming  priorities, and the work that we are individually focused on. 

On Tuesday evening, I joined many well wishers from various agencies and administrations to honor Mark Smith as he retires from public service. Mark’s long and successful career has been characterized by his steadfast commitment to serving the people of Virginia and opportunities for education and economic development. I especially appreciate his friendship and his devotion to Virginia.

Later that same evening, I traveled down to the Chesterfield County Airport to join the Virginia Farm Bureau for its Regional Briefing Dinner to discuss the concerns and legislative priorities of our agricultural communities. Virginia’s farmers are not just an integral part of the Commonwealth’s economy; our farms feed and sustain us. Protecting vital farm lands as well as farming families is imperative in every way possible.  

On Tuesday evening, my staff joined the Metro Richmond Area Young Democrats (MRAYD) for its Holiday Potluck. MRAYD has been a committed partner, both during election cycles and during legislative sessions. I look forward to continuing engagement with members as we work through the 2024 Session.

I began Thursday morning by receiving a briefing from the Virginia State Police (VSP) on issues impacting recruitment and retention of officers, ongoing technology needs, legislative and funding concerns, officer training, and an overview of efforts to address human trafficking and domestic terrorism. I appreciate the dedication and devotion of Colonel Gary Settle and his leadership team.

Later on Thursday evening, I enjoyed visiting the American Civil War Museum at Historic Tredegar for its Holiday Reception. The ACWM is a remarkable museum, and we are fortunate indeed to have it accessible to us right here in Richmond. The Museum takes seriously its responsibility to provide an accurate and comprehensive history of the Civil War, the role of slavery in America, Emancipation, Reconstruction, and the long-lasting impacts this history has had on our contemporary society. 

I traveled from that holiday reception, on Thursday evening, to join the Richmond City Democratic Committee (RCDC) for its Rank and File Holiday Party. At this event, we recognized amazing leaders in our community. I was honored to present the Democratic Hero Award to Alexsis Rodgers. Alexsis’ leadership as Chair, her unrelenting work as a volunteer on numerous campaigns, and her commitment to many efforts that champion social, economic, and political justice have inspired many others. Photo credit: Steven Sykes, MR. LP. of On One Consulting.