Dr. Thornell Kenly Page Recognition Resolution of 2026

ENROLLED ORIGINAL
1

A CEREMONIAL RESOLUTION

26-167

IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

June 2, 2026

To recognize and honor the life and legacy of Dr. Thornell Kenly Page and commend his
dedication to scholarship, public service, expanding educational access, historic
preservation, and community empowerment.

WHEREAS, Dr. Thornell Kenly Page was a distinguished educator, administrator,
community advocate, economic development leader, and devoted public servant whose lifelong
commitment to the people of the District of Columbia helped shape generations of residents and
strengthen communities across the city;

WHEREAS, born and educated in Dillon, South Carolina, Dr. Page pursued higher
education with distinction, earning degrees from Johnson C. Smith University, the University of
the District of Columbia, and Virginia Tech, becoming a respected scholar and advocate for
educational opportunity and advancement;

WHEREAS, Dr. Page dedicated much of his professional life to expanding educational
access, economic opportunity, and social services for communities throughout the District,
particularly low-income families, seniors, and young Black students pursuing higher education;

WHEREAS, as the Director of the Cooperative Extension Service at the University of the
District of Columbia, Dr. Page helped establish innovative community-based programs in all
eight wards of the city, including initiatives focused on public health, urban agricultures,
education and neighborhood empowerment;

WHEREAS, Dr. Page also served the nation with distinction as the Deputy Director of
the Office of Community Services at the United States Department of Health and Human
Services during the Clinton administration, overseeing programs dedicated to community
development, poverty reduction, and support for historically underserved communities;

WHEREAS, through his leadership of Page Research Associates, Inc., and his
involvement in numerous civic, educational, and economic development initiatives, Dr. Page
played a meaningful role in strengthening the civic and economic fabric of the District and
advancing opportunities for minority-owned businesses and neighborhood revitalization;

ENROLLED ORIGINAL
2

WHEREAS, Dr. Page was a steadfast supporter of education and youth achievement,
including through his service as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Washington
Teachers’ Union Scholarship Fund Trust, supporting students pursuing careers in education and
public service;

WHEREAS, deeply devoted to preserving African American history and heritage in the
District of Columbia, Dr. Page worked tirelessly to protect and preserve the historic Mt. Zion
Cemetery and the Female Union Band Society Cemetery in Georgetown, safeguarding their
historic significance for future generations;

WHEREAS, beyond his many professional accomplishments, Dr. Page will be
remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor, church leader, political
supporter, and friend, whose wisdom, dignity, intellect, generosity, and unwavering commitment
to his community leaves an enduring impact on all who knew him; and

WHEREAS, the life and legacy of Dr. Thornell Kenly Page reflect a profound dedication
to public service, educational excellence, historic preservation, and the advancement of all of
those making the District of Columbia their home.

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That the Council of
the District of Columbia recognizes Dr. Thornell Kenly Page for his extraordinary contributions
to the District of Columbia and highly commend his legacy of leadership, scholarship, service,
and community empowerment with deep gratitude and appreciation for a life well lived and
faithfully dedicated to others.

Sec. 2. This resolution may be cited as the “Dr. Thornell Kenly Page Recognition
Resolution of 2026.”

Sec. 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately.