House Resolution 58EX By: Representatives Drenner of the 85th, Cannon of the 58th, Park of the 107th, Lim of the 98th, Berry of the 56th, and others A RESOLUTION Recognizing former State Representative Simone Bell for her distinguished public service, leadership, and contributions to the State of Georgia; and for other purposes. WHEREAS, public service is strengthened by leaders who dedicate themselves to improving their communities and expanding opportunities for others; and WHEREAS, former State Representative Simone Bell has devoted her career to civic engagement, community leadership, advocacy, and service to the people of Georgia; and WHEREAS, after coming to Georgia as a student at Agnes Scott College, Simone Bell became a respected community organizer and advocate whose work has positively impacted communities throughout this state; and WHEREAS, in 2009, Simone Bell was elected to the Georgia House of Representatives, making history as a trailblazer for African American and LGBTQ representation in state government and public service; and H. R. 58EX WHEREAS, her historic election expanded opportunities for future generations of leaders and helped ensure that more Georgians could see themselves reflected in the democratic process; and WHEREAS, during her tenure in this chamber, she served her constituents with dedication and integrity and demonstrated the importance of leadership grounded in service, courage, and commitment to the public good; and WHEREAS, throughout her years of service and in her continued work beyond elected office, Simone Bell has remained a steadfast advocate for civic engagement, equality, justice, and stronger communities; and WHEREAS, her example reminds us that leadership often requires the courage to break new ground and the perseverance to create pathways for those who follow; and WHEREAS, the members of this body are honored to welcome Simone Bell and her wife, Val, to the House of Representatives and to recognize her lasting contributions to the State of Georgia. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body recognize and commend former State Representative Simone Bell for her distinguished public service, pioneering leadership, and enduring contributions to the people of Georgia. 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 former State Representative Simone Bell. H. R. 58EX