HJR 272

Commending Harold Fitrer, Ed.D.
Agreed to by the House of Delegates, March 10, 2026
Agreed to by the Senate, March 12, 2026
WHEREAS, Harold Fitrer, Ed.D., has served with distinction as president and chief executive officer of Communities In Schools of Richmond for 18 years, guiding the organization with vision and dedication to improving outcomes for students across Richmond and Henrico County; and
WHEREAS, throughout his tenure, Harold Fitrer has advanced the mission of removing barriers to student success, ensuring that thousands of young people have access to caring adults, critical resources, and opportunities to thrive academically and personally; and
WHEREAS, Harold Fitrer has strengthened the organization's role as a trusted partner to Richmond Public Schools and Henrico County Public Schools, helping to expand access to critical resources for students and families facing barriers to success; and
WHEREAS, during Harold Fitrer's tenure, Communities In Schools of Richmond (CIS of Richmond) has grown to serve more than 24,000 students annually in 42 schools across Richmond and Henrico County, placing trained site coordinators directly inside schools to provide integrated support; and
WHEREAS, Harold Fitrer has long been an advocate for public education in the Commonwealth, previously serving Richmond Public Schools in multiple roles, including teacher, coach, and administrator, and continuing to inspire colleagues with his lifelong commitment to young people; and
WHEREAS, Harold Fitrer's steady leadership has strengthened the organization's role as a trusted partner to schools, families, and community leaders, positioning CIS of Richmond as a model for scaling student-centered support statewide; and
WHEREAS, Harold Fitrer has supported the professional development of hundreds of young professionals who, under his leadership, gain wisdom and experience to serve youth with passion, integrity, and excellence; and
WHEREAS, admired for his collaborative spirit, integrity, and steadfast belief in the potential of every student, Harold Fitrer has been a trusted partner to educators, families, and community leaders alike; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That Harold Fitrer, Ed.D., president and chief executive officer of Communities In Schools of Richmond, hereby be commended for his outstanding service to the students and families of Richmond and the surrounding communities; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Harold Fitrer, Ed.D., as an expression of the House of Delegates' admiration for his commitment to education and student success.