House Resolution 1305
By: Representatives Cannon of the 58th, Barnes of the 86th, Drenner of the 85th, and Park of
the 107th
A RESOLUTION
Honoring the life and memory of Dr. James Matthew Garrett; and for other purposes.
WHEREAS, Dr. James Matthew Garrett, a native of Turner County and a devoted public
servant, dedicated his life to enriching the lives of countless Georgians; and
WHEREAS, a proud graduate of the University of Georgia, Dr. James Matthew Garrett
served in leadership roles with Dance Marathon, LeaderShape, and the Arch Society as well
as advanced academic work promoting integrity development among college students,
contributions that continue to shape student leadership programs within the university; and
WHEREAS, he was a transformative force in the field of organizational development,
leading strategic initiatives at Emory University and serving as a Principal Partner at
Deloitte, where he championed inclusive leadership development and systemic
improvements in public health services across all levels of government; and
WHEREAS, he further served as a lead volunteer for over two decades in leadership roles
with the Human Rights Campaign, advocating passionately and tirelessly for LGBTQ+
equality and earning recognition as one of Georgia's Most Influential Leaders in 2020; and
WHEREAS, Dr. James Matthew Garrett was honored with Ashburn's Key to the City and
the proclamation of "Matt Garrett Day" in recognition of his contributions to his community
and state; and
WHEREAS, a compassionate and generous man, Dr. James Matthew Garrett will long be
remembered for his love of family, friendship, and community and will be missed by all who
had the great fortune of knowing him.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that
the members of this body honor the life and memory of Dr. James Matthew Garrett and
express the deepest and most sincere regret at his passing.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized
and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the
family of Dr. James Matthew Garrett.