| 12 | 16 | | |
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| 13 | 17 | | |
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| 14 | 18 | | |
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| 15 | 19 | | WHEREAS, for 90 years, Norfolk State University has stood as a mighty fortress of knowledge, an institution forged in resilience, and a guiding light for those who seek wisdom, advancement, and transformation; and |
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| 16 | 20 | | |
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| 17 | 21 | | WHEREAS, founded in the midst of the challenging times of the Great Depression on September 18, 1935, as the Norfolk Unit of Virginia Union University, this institution rose from humble beginnings to become a towering bastion of higher learning, evolving into Norfolk Polytechnic College, Norfolk State College, and finally claiming its rightful place as Norfolk State Universitya name synonymous with excellence, empowerment, and unyielding progress; and |
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| 18 | 22 | | |
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| 19 | 23 | | WHEREAS, from its earliest days, Norfolk State University has embodied the belief that education is the great equalizer, a force powerful enough to shatter barriers, uplift communities, and forge leaders who shape the world; and |
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| 20 | 24 | | |
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| 21 | 25 | | WHEREAS, Norfolk State University's relentless pursuit of academic rigor, scholarly distinction, and community engagement has led to its recognition as an accredited institution under the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College, offering esteemed programs that span from associate and baccalaureate degrees to master's and doctoral programs, each molding the next generation of visionaries, innovators, and trailblazers; and |
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| 22 | 26 | | |
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| 23 | 27 | | WHEREAS, Norfolk State University, ever steadfast in its mission of empowerment and transformation, has cultivated an academic environment that nurtures potential, elevates minds, and strengthens character, shaping Spartans who do not merely walk in the footsteps of history but stride boldly to create their own; and |
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| 24 | 28 | | |
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| 25 | 29 | | WHEREAS, the Spartan spirit is emblazoned with the university's core valuesExcellence, Student-Centeredness, Diversity, Integrity, Engagement, Pride, and Financial Empowermenteach a guiding principle that has steered Norfolk State University through nine decades of triumph and evolution; and |
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| 26 | 30 | | |
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| 27 | 31 | | WHEREAS, through its unwavering dedication to access and inclusion, cultural enlightenment, and civic responsibility, Norfolk State University has not only transformed the lives of its students but has also played an indelible role in the social, cultural, and economic advancement of Hampton Roads, the Commonwealth, the United States, and the world; and |
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| 28 | 32 | | |
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| 29 | 33 | | WHEREAS, Norfolk State University has been a sacred forge where dreams take flight, legacies are built, and barriers are broken, ensuring that each graduate leaves emboldened, not just with a diploma, but with the knowledge, resilience, and leadership skills required to excel in an ever-changing world; and |
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| 30 | 34 | | |
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| 31 | 35 | | WHEREAS, on this glorious milestone of 90 years, Norfolk State University stands undaunted, unshaken, and unrelenting in its pursuit of educational excellence, proving that from the seeds planted in 1935 have grown mighty Spartans, prepared to lead, serve, and uplift generations to come; now, therefore, be it |
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| 32 | 36 | | |
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| 33 | 37 | | RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend Norfolk State University for its unparalleled contributions to education, its steadfast service to its students and communities, and its role as a beacon of hope and opportunity for all who seek the power of knowledge, on the momentous occasion of its 90th anniversary; and, be it |
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| 34 | 38 | | |
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| 35 | 39 | | RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Norfolk State University as an expression of the General Assembly's respect, admiration, and gratitude to the institution for inspiring young men and women who shall continue to rise, lead, and transform the world for generations to come. |
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