Mississippi 2026 Regular Session

Mississippi Senate Bill SC537

Introduced
3/9/26  
Refer
3/9/26  
Engrossed
3/20/26  
Refer
3/24/26  
Enrolled
4/6/26  

Caption

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING MR. PATRICK R. WILCHER FOR BEING SELECTED AS "INSTRUCTOR OF THE YEAR" AT THE PERKINSTON CAMPUS OF MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST COMMUNITY COLLEGE.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 537 is a ceremonial resolution honoring Mr. Patrick R. Wilcher of Gulfport for being selected as “Instructor of the Year” at the Perkinston Campus of Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. The resolution highlights his 19 years of service at MGCCC, his role as Department Chair and Mathematics Instructor, and his educational background and prior teaching experience. It also notes that the award is based on nominations from students, faculty, and administrators and recognizes teaching excellence, college service, community service, and professional development. The resolution does not change any substantive law, create new programs, or appropriate funds. Its effect is limited to formally commending Mr. Wilcher, directing that the resolution be presented to him, forwarded to the college president, and made available to the Capitol Press Corps. As an adopted concurrent resolution, it serves as an official expression of legislative recognition rather than a statutory amendment.

Impact

SC537 has no direct impact on Mississippi statutes, regulations, or public programs. It is a nonbinding honorary resolution that records legislative appreciation for an individual educator and may be used for public recognition by the college and the recipient. The only practical effect is ceremonial and reputational, with no legal obligations imposed on state agencies, local governments, or private parties.

Sentiment

The sentiment around the resolution is uniformly positive. The bill was adopted by the Senate with 45 yeas and 0 nays, indicating unanimous support and no recorded opposition. The language of the resolution itself is laudatory, emphasizing Mr. Wilcher’s teaching excellence, long service, and dedication to students in Mississippi.

Contention

There is no notable policy contention in the available record because the measure is purely commemorative. No committee transcript discussion is provided, and the vote history shows no dissent. Any interest in the resolution appears to be limited to recognizing an individual educator and celebrating Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS SR88

Commend Daniel Calcote as Instructor of the Year at the Perkinston Campus at MGCCC.

MS HR111

Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Men's Golf Team; commend upon winning national championship.

MS SR81

Commend Angela Sims as Instructor of the Year for the MGCCC Jackson County Campus.

MS SR87

Commend Robin Hayes as Instructor of the Year for the MGCCC Harrison County Campus.

MS SR80

Commend Lamont Davis as Instructor of the Year at the Centers of MGCCC.

MS SB2514

Mississippi Nursing Instruction Grant Program; create.

MS SB3052

Appropriation; Gulf Coast Restoration Funds to the Mississippi Development Authority.

MS SB2047

Appropriation; Gulf Coast Restoration Funds to the Mississippi Development Authority.

MS HC65

Phi Theta Kappa 2025 All-Mississippi Academic Team; commend.

MS SR24

Congratulate Dr. Steven Reed as first Mississippian elected to lead the American Optometric Association.

Similar Bills

MS SR125

Commend Patrick Wilcher as "Instructor of the Year" at the Perkinston Campus of MGCCC.

MS SR81

Commend Angela Sims as Instructor of the Year for the MGCCC Jackson County Campus.

MS SR66

Extend condolences of Senate on the passing of legendary Alcorn State University Tennis Coach Anthony Bruce Dodgen.

MS SR87

Commend Robin Hayes as Instructor of the Year for the MGCCC Harrison County Campus.

MS HB306

"Health Careers Academy"; create for students in Grades 9 through 12.

MS HB166

"Health Careers Academy"; create for students in Grades 9 through 12.

MS SC521

Extend congratulations of Legislature to Dr. John A. Peoples, Jr., President Emeritus of JSU and oldest living HBCU President.

MS HB72

Mississippi Delta Medical Apprenticeship Program (MS DMAP); establish to provide health care career pathways for students in the Delta.