House Resolution 1550
By: Representatives Scott of the 76th, Burnough of the 77th, Flournoy of the 74th, Schofield
of the 63rd, and Davis of the 87th
A RESOLUTION
Recognizing and commending Mrs. Barberette Russell for her outstanding service,
unwavering commitment to education, and lifelong dedication to strengthening families and
communities; and for other purposes.
WHEREAS, Mrs. Barberette Russell is a proud native of Atlanta, Georgia, whose life has
been defined by service, leadership, and compassion; and
WHEREAS, she earned an undergraduate degree in Education and Special Needs from
Mercer University and a Master's degree in Educational Leadership from Strayer University,
equipping her with the knowledge and vision to lead and inspire; and
WHEREAS, with over fifteen years of experience in Early Childhood Education, Mrs.
Russell has nurtured and shaped countless young learners, positively impacting children and
families throughout her distinguished career; and
WHEREAS, she is the devoted mother of four accomplished adult children, including an
entrepreneurial driver, a United States Marine with more than fifteen years of honorable
service, a daughter who became a certified NASCAR technician at the remarkable age of
nineteen, and a son who is the proud father of four wonderful children; and
WHEREAS, for more than two decades, Mrs. Russell has demonstrated exceptional
dedication to community service across Georgia, contributing her time and talents to voter
registration initiatives, feeding the homeless, supporting senior citizens at Crestview Nursing
Home, and serving numerous schools throughout Clayton County and the greater Atlanta
area; and
WHEREAS, she is a steadfast supporter of the Breast Cancer, Autism, and Atlanta Heart
foundations, reflecting her compassionate commitment to advancing health and wellness
within the community; and
WHEREAS, as the devoted caregiver of her brother, Johnny Shorter, who has Down
syndrome, Mrs. Russell exemplifies love, patience, and advocacy, extending her commitment
to disability rights through her work with Clayton Adult for Disability and ARC, and earning
certification through Family Bridge to better serve adults with disabilities; and
WHEREAS, guided by her faith and inspired by 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV), "each of you should use
whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its
various forms," Mrs. Russell has faithfully lived out this scripture through her tireless efforts
to uplift, empower, and serve others; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Russell's life stands as a shining example of servant leadership, dedication
to education, advocacy for individuals with disabilities, and unwavering commitment to
strengthening families and communities throughout Georgia.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that
the members of this body recognize and commend Mrs. Barberette Russell for her
extraordinary contributions to education, community service, and advocacy, and extend
sincere gratitude for her continued impact on the citizens of this great state.
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 Mrs.
Barberette Russell.