Bill > HJR0492

This resolution honors and commends Mary Patterson Watkins, a distinguished educator, community leader, and historian from Rutherford County, Tennessee. A graduate of Middle Tennessee State University with degrees in Art and Sociology and special education endorsements, Watkins has an extensive career in education, including being named Teacher of the Year at Riverdale High School and working for the Tennessee Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities for 23 years. The resolution highlights her numerous achievements, including founding the African American Heritage Society of Rutherford County, serving on historical advisory boards, and receiving multiple awards such as the NAACP Woman of the Year and the African American Heritage Society Founders Award. Beyond her educational work, Watkins is recognized for her artistic talents, including being a sketch artist, playwright, and director, as well as her community service efforts in preserving local African American history. The resolution specifically commends her for embodying the spirit of a true Tennessean and extends best wishes for her continued success, ultimately resolving that an official copy of the resolution be prepared for presentation to her.

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HJR0492&ga=114