HR 1634: Thomas, Jody; distinguished leadership and service; commend

House Resolution 1634

By: Representatives Scott of the 76th, Schofield of the 63rd, Davis of the 87th, Burnough of the 77th, and Jones of the 60th

A RESOLUTION

Honoring Jody Thomas for her distinguished leadership and service; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, Jody Thomas has faithfully served as Executive Director of the National Foundation for Women Legislators (NFWL) since December 2013, providing visionary leadership, strategic direction, and steadfast management in alignment with the mission and goals established by its Board of Directors; and

WHEREAS, under her exceptional stewardship, NFWL has experienced strengthened policy development, expanded programming, enhanced communications, responsible financial management, and successful fundraising initiatives-ensuring the long-term stability, sustainability, and growth of the organization; and

WHEREAS, at a pivotal time when the future of NFWL was uncertain, Jody Thomas demonstrated courage, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, working hand in hand with the Board of Directors to secure a strong and hopeful path forward for women legislators nationwide; and

WHEREAS, throughout her tenure, she has been a tireless champion of bipartisan cooperation, consistently encouraging leaders to rise above party divisions in order to advance sound public policy, strengthen civic discourse, and serve the greater good of the American people; and

WHEREAS, her leadership cultivated a welcoming, inclusive, and diverse environment within NFWL's membership and executive leadership, reflecting her belief that representation, respect, and collaboration are the cornerstones of effective governance; and

WHEREAS, with more than 30 years of distinguished service in public affairs and government relations, Ms. Thomas has held numerous prominent positions, including National Finance Director for two presidential campaigns, partner in a public affairs firm, fundraiser and political director for Congressman J. C. Watts, and appointee of President George W. Bush as Director of Public Liaison for the Office of Personnel Management; and

WHEREAS, beyond her professional accomplishments, Jody Thomas is widely respected as a trusted advisor, mentor, and friend to countless women leaders across the nation, offering guidance, encouragement, and wisdom to those navigating public service and government relations; and

WHEREAS, her legacy is defined not only by measurable organizational success, but by the relationships she nurtured, the leaders she developed, and the bipartisan spirit she consistently modeled.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body recognize and commend Jody Thomas as a woman who stands among the very best in leadership-an architect of opportunity, a guardian of institutional excellence, and a steadfast champion for women in public service across the United States. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that her dedication to empowering women legislators, strengthening bipartisan collaboration, and ensuring the continued success of the National Foundation for Women Legislators shall serve as an enduring example of principled leadership and service.

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 Jody Thomas.