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Commending Michelle Wren.
Agreed to by the Senate, March 5, 2026
WHEREAS, Michelle Wren, an esteemed civic leader currently serving as executive director of the Portsmouth Partnership, was named the Portsmouth First Citizen by the Portsmouth Service League in 2026; and
WHEREAS, as the executive director of the Portsmouth Partnership, Michelle Wren spearheads initiatives centered around economic development, workforce readiness, tourism promotion, and strengthening local partnerships in Portsmouth; and
WHEREAS, during Michelle Wren's tenure, the Portsmouth Partnership has advanced a number of endeavors to transform the Portsmouth community, including a co-working space to support minority entrepreneurs and the launch of the High Street Fest, an event that brought thousands to downtown Portsmouth; and
WHEREAS, as a result of Michelle Wren's efforts, the Portsmouth Partnership has raised more than $2 million to support local renovations and small businesses while securing Portsmouth's designation as a Mobilizing Main Street Community; and
WHEREAS, Michelle Wren has recently dedicated herself to bolstering the safety, accessibility, and vibrancy of downtown Portsmouth, improving the quality of life for the city's residents and visitors; and
WHEREAS, Michelle Wren's success is a testament to her ability to convene local leaders and stakeholders around projects that enhance Portsmouth's economic vitality and celebrate its rich heritage and culture; and
WHEREAS, beyond her work with the Portsmouth Partnership, Michelle Wren has also made an impact in the community through her service with a number of boards and organizations, including the Portsmouth Museums Foundation, the Nansemond-Suffolk Academy Development Advisory Board, the Suffolk Sister Cities Commission, and the Portsmouth Service League, which she served as president; and
WHEREAS, by promoting economic growth, community engagement, and regional collaboration throughout Portsmouth and Hampton Roads, Michelle Wren has helped to make the region a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the Senate of Virginia, That Michelle Wren hereby be commended for being named the Portsmouth Service League's 2026 Portsmouth First Citizen; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Michelle Wren as an expression of the Senate of Virginia's admiration for her contributions to Portsmouth, Hampton Roads, and the Commonwealth.