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VA HJR52
Joint Resolution
Status
Passed
1/22/2026
Primary Sponsor
Rae Cousins
Click for details
AI Summary
- William J. Martin, longtime director of the Valentine museum in Richmond, died on December 28, 2025, and is honored for his contributions to preserving and interpreting Virginia's history
- Served as director of the Valentine from 1995 until his death, stabilizing the museum's finances and launching major renovations while expanding programming to elevate untold stories
- Native of Culpeper County who earned degrees from Virginia Tech, previously led revitalization efforts in Petersburg and served as the city's director of tourism before joining the Valentine in 1994
- Following the 2017 Charlottesville Unite the Right rally, launched an exhibition on Richmond's Confederate monuments and engaged architects to reimagine a more inclusive Monument Avenue
- Recognized as Richmond Times-Dispatch Person of the Year Hall of Fame inductee (2018) and Style Weekly Richmonder of the Year (2024)
Legislative Description
Celebrating the life of William J. Martin.
Last Action
Bill text as passed House and Senate (HJ52ER)
4/1/2026
Full Bill Text
No bill text available