House Joint Resolution 653 is a commendation resolution honoring Tiffany McKillip Franks, Ed.D., on the occasion of her retirement as president of Averett University in January 2025. The resolution recites her educational background, prior experience in higher education administration, and her 17-year tenure leading Averett University, noting that she became the first woman to serve as president of the institution since its founding in 1859.
The resolution highlights accomplishments during her presidency, including record undergraduate enrollment, completion of the university’s first comprehensive capital campaign, opening of the Riverview Campus in Danville, expansion of academic offerings, and growth in health sciences and facility upgrades supported by nearly $40 million in fundraising. It also credits her with launching programs in nursing, criminal justice, applied data analytics, and education, as well as adding athletics and community engagement initiatives.
Impact
This resolution does not change state law, create new statutory duties, or appropriate funds. Its effect is ceremonial: it formally expresses the General Assembly’s admiration for Tiffany Franks and directs the Clerk of the House of Delegates to prepare a copy for presentation to her. The only parties directly affected are Tiffany McKillip Franks and, indirectly, Averett University and the broader higher education community recognized in the resolution.
Sentiment
The sentiment around the resolution is strongly positive and unanimous in tone. The bill was agreed to by both chambers, and the text is entirely laudatory, emphasizing leadership, fundraising success, institutional growth, and service to students and the Dan River region. There is no recorded opposition, amendment activity, or committee controversy in the available materials.
Contention
There are no notable points of contention in the available record. Because this is a ceremonial commendation resolution rather than substantive legislation, no policy dispute, fiscal debate, or stakeholder disagreement is reflected in the text, votes, or committee materials provided.