25 LC 112 3593 Senate Resolution 511 By: Senator James of the 28th A RESOLUTION Recognizing and commending Michelle Taylor Willis; and for other purposes. 1 WHEREAS, Michelle Taylor Willis is a distinguished graduate of the University of Florida2 and a dynamic trailblazer who has earned accolades as a media executive, author, speaker,3 actress, and strategic advisor; and4 WHEREAS, as Founder and CEO of Gagnant Media and Publisher of SoFu Lifestyle5 Magazine—a three-time Publication of the Year recipient—she has amplified community6 voices and advanced storytelling throughout metro Atlanta; and7 WHEREAS, Michelle Taylor Willis has become a respected voice on national platforms,8 sharing her insight as a speaker, panelist, and moderator for organizations such as the9 National Urban League, Blacks in Tech, National Bar Association, and United Way; and10 WHEREAS, she has additionally championed positive parenting through her nationally11 recognized book, Raising Significance: A Guide to Well-Rounded, Independent, and12 Confident Kids, which was featured on The Tamron Hall Show; and13 S. R. 511 - 1 - 25 LC 112 3593 WHEREAS, a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Michelle Taylor Willis 14 coined and trademarked the term SoFu® to unite and elevate the eight cities of South Fulton15 County; and16 WHEREAS, her commitment to the community is further reflected in her leadership on17 several boards, including service as Vice Chair of the Atlanta-Fulton Library Foundation and18 past officer roles with the Morris Brown College Foundation, United Way Advisory Board19 South Fulton, and Théâtre du Rêve; and20 WHEREAS, her leadership and innovation have earned her widespread recognition,21 including honors as one of the Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Atlanta, Top 25 Most22 Extraordinary Atlantans, and frequent placements on Georgia's Top 100 lists; and23 WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable individual be24 appropriately honored during this special time.25 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body26 recognize and commend Michelle Taylor Willis for her entrepreneurial vision, community27 advocacy, and exemplary career contributions as well as extend best wishes for continued28 success.29 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed30 to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to Michelle Taylor31 Willis.32 S. R. 511 - 2 -