2025 SESSION
ENROLLED
HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 601
Commending Michael Hughes.
Agreed to by the House of Delegates, February 10, 2025
Agreed to by the Senate, February 13, 2025
WHEREAS, Michael Hughes, professor emeritus of sociology in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, has greatly served the Virginia Tech community for many years; and
WHEREAS, after earning bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Alabama and his doctoral degree in sociology from Vanderbilt University, Michael Hughes joined the faculty in the Department of Sociology at Virginia Tech in 1979; and
WHEREAS, for more than four decades, Michael Hughes taught a range of undergraduate and graduate courses, from introductory lectures to graduate seminars, helping countless students acquire a deeper and more nuanced understanding of sociological principles and ideals; and
WHEREAS, with a particular focus on mental health and race, Michael Hughes published four books and numerous articles, chapters, and research reports in leading sociological journals and publications over his career; and
WHEREAS, a former president of the Southern Sociological Society, Michael Hughes was inducted into the organization's Roll of Honor in 2020 in recognition of his meritorious scholarship and achievements as a professor; and
WHEREAS, Michael Hughes was a leading voice in the world of sociological thought, serving as the editor of the Journal of Health and Social Behavior for four years and on the editorial boards of six other major journals; and
WHEREAS, Michael Hughes' various accolades include the Reuben Hill Award from the National Council on Family Relations, the Excellence in Research and Creative Scholarship Award from Virginia Tech's College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences, and the E. Gordon Ericksen Outstanding Graduate Faculty Award from Virginia Tech's Department of Sociology; and
WHEREAS, in honor of his service and dedication, Michael Hughes was conferred the title of professor emeritus by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors in 2021; and
WHEREAS, through his commitment to his students and to advancing the study of sociology, Michael Hughes has embodied the ideals of academia and made a difference in countless lives; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend Michael Hughes for his legacy of service at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Michael Hughes as an expression of the General Assembly's admiration for his contributions to the Commonwealth and best wishes for his future endeavors.