HR313: HR313 Smith, Nolan Sental, Jr.; inspiring journey and achievements; commend

This is a commendation resolution, a ceremonial statement rather than a law that changes anyone's rights or obligations. The Georgia House of Representatives uses it to honor Nolan Sental Smith Jr., who grew up in Savannah, played football at IMG Academy and Calvary Day School, won two College Football Playoff National Championships at the University of Georgia, and was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft. The resolution highlights his community work through the Nolan Smith Foundation, which supports young athletes. It closes by directing the Clerk of the House of Representatives to prepare a copy of the resolution for delivery to Smith. It does not create any program, spend any state funds, or amend any Georgia statute.

• Formally commends Nolan Sental Smith Jr. for his football career and community involvement, with no legal or financial effect.
• Recounts his athletic path from youth leagues through IMG Academy, Calvary Day School, the University of Georgia, and the Philadelphia Eagles.
• Recognizes the Nolan Smith Foundation for its work mentoring young athletes.
• Directs the Clerk of the House of Representatives to prepare a copy of the resolution for distribution to Smith.

The resolution directly names and honors Nolan Sental Smith Jr. It also involves the Clerk of the House of Representatives, who must prepare and distribute a copy, and indirectly recognizes the Nolan Smith Foundation.

The resolution carries symbolic rather than practical weight: it does not change Georgia law, spend money, or affect anyone's rights. Its significance is that the Georgia House of Representatives is publicly recognizing a Georgia athlete's achievements and community work.

• The whereas clauses recount Smith's biography, including his birth in Savannah, his football career at IMG Academy, Calvary Day School, and the University of Georgia, and his 2023 NFL Draft selection by the Philadelphia Eagles.
• The resolved clause has the House of Representatives honor Smith's accomplishments and extend congratulations for his contributions to football and community service.
• A further resolved clause directs the Clerk of the House of Representatives to make a copy available for distribution to Smith.

1. 2025-02-19House Read and Adopted (House)
2. 2025-02-19House First Readers (House)
3. 2025-02-19House Hopper (House)

• Carl Gilliard (D, HD-162)Primary sponsor
• Ron Stephens (R, HD-164)
• Bill Hitchens (R, HD-161)
• Edna Jackson (D, HD-165)
• Anne Westbrook (D, HD-163)
• Jesse Petrea (R, HD-166)

• commendation resolution
• University of Georgia football
• NFL draft
• Georgia House of Representatives