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2014 SESSION
WHEREAS, Melanie Rhoades Gerheart is a woman of the highest integrity and professionalism who reminded legislators, fellow lobbyists, and her healthcare clients that wit and good humor really do have a place in the political process; and
WHEREAS, Melanie Gerheart was a successful lobbyist of the old school: honest to a fault, fair to the other side, and a keen observer of the occasional pomposity, whether offered by legislator or colleague, friend, or foe; and
WHEREAS, Melanie Gerheart’s advocacy in public policy and politics long embraced the proposition that even the most disadvantaged among Virginia’s citizenry deserve the best treatment the Commonwealth’s healthcare professions can offer; and
WHEREAS, Melanie Gerheart served faithfully as lobbyist, consultant, and advisor to many healthcare organizations during her career, including CHIP of Virginia, Virginia Emergency Physicians, Virginia Society of Anesthesiologists, Virginia OB-GYN Society, and District IV of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; and
WHEREAS, during a long career in public policy and politics, Melanie Gerheart earned the trust, confidence, and respect of members of the General Assembly while representing the interests of her healthcare clients; and
WHEREAS, during this time, Melanie Gerheart formed lasting friendships with and earned the respect of the many lobbyist colleagues, policymakers, and state employees with whom she worked; and
WHEREAS, not only her clients but also legislators, healthcare professionals, and General Assembly staff relied on Melanie Gerheart’s robust intellect, loyalty, determination, that wonderful sense of humor, and her sustaining leadership in dealing with the many legislative and policy issues relating to healthcare in Virginia; and
WHEREAS, Melanie Gerheart worked in conjunction with the Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association, Virginia Association of Health Plans, and the Medical Society of Virginia, often bringing these groups and their occasionally fractious members together to solve difficult issues; and
WHEREAS, even in the face of overwhelming physical odds during recent legislative sessions, Melanie Gerheart continued to fight for the rights of physicians, their patients, and others to enhance the physician-patient relationship; and
WHEREAS, Melanie Gerheart’s wise counsel, ability to negotiate effectively, and broad knowledge have been responsible for advancing the provision of healthcare to millions of Virginians; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the Senate of Virginia, That Melanie Rhoades Gerheart hereby be commended for her exemplary service; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Melanie Rhoades Gerheart as an expression of the Senate of Virginia’s deepest gratitude, thanks, and love.