Commending Betty Adams, Ed.D.

Commending Betty Adams, Ed.D.
Agreed to by the Senate, January 29, 2026
Agreed to by the House of Delegates, February 2, 2026
WHEREAS, Betty Adams, Ed.D., an esteemed education leader and longtime executive director of the Southern Virginia Higher Education Center in South Boston, retired in 2025; and
WHEREAS, after earning a bachelor's degree from Radford University in 1981, Betty Adams furthered her academic pursuits by obtaining a master's degree in business administration from East Carolina University in 1988 and a doctor of education degree from North Carolina State University in 2002; and
WHEREAS, prior to joining the Southern Virginia Higher Education Center (SVHEC), Betty Adams held a number of positions in both retail service and higher education, acquiring valuable experience in developing and implementing adult learning programs; and
WHEREAS, Betty Adams took the helm of SVHEC in 2009, assuming leadership of an organization that advances the economic potential of Southern Virginia by providing a variety of college degree and workforce training opportunities to more than 1,400 students each year; and
WHEREAS, Betty Adams's 16-year tenure with SVHEC was highlighted by several signature achievements, including the establishment of new workforce training programs to meet the demands of local employers, the rebrand and relaunch of SVHEC's advanced manufacturing research and development center, ProductWorks, and the expansion of SVHEC's in-person learning spaces; and
WHEREAS, Betty Adams helped SVHEC fulfill its mission and elevate its profile by consistently identifying the region's needs and by working effectively and collaboratively with local partners, businesses, and organizations; and
WHEREAS, beyond her work with SVHEC, Betty Adams has made an impact on the Halifax County community through leadership positions with various local organizations, including the Halifax County Chamber of Commerce and the Southside Behavioral Health Board; and
WHEREAS, as the result of Betty Adams's hard work and determination, the SVHEC stands ready to build upon its legacy of excellence and community service for many years to come; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the Senate, the House of Delegates concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend Betty Adams, Ed.D., executive director of the Southern Virginia Higher Education Center, on the occasion of her retirement; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Betty Adams, Ed.D., as an expression of the General Assembly's admiration for her contributions to the Commonwealth.