WHEREAS, Thomas Dixon was the second youngest of five children born to James Dixon and Hattie Dixon in Sparta, Georgia, on March 28, 1931; and
     WHEREAS, Thomas Dixon honorably and respectfully served his nation through 13 years of service in the United States Air Force; and
     WHEREAS, Through the course of his service to the United States Air Force, Thomas Dixon received a Bachelor of Science degree from the Sophia University in Japan; and
     WHEREAS, Through the continued course of his service, Thomas Dixon was stationed at McChord Air Force base and came to reside in the city of Tacoma, Washington, after completing his duty with the Air Force; and
     WHEREAS, The National Urban League was founded in 1910 in order to enable African-Americans to secure economic self-reliance, parity, power, and equal opportunity; and
     WHEREAS, In 1966, Thomas Dixon was named chair of the organizing committee for the establishment of the Urban League in the City of Tacoma; and
     WHEREAS, Thomas Dixon was the founding President of the Tacoma Urban League when it opened its doors to the African-American community in 1968; and
     WHEREAS, Thomas Dixon, now President Emeritus of the Tacoma Urban League, dedicated more than 30 years to developing and implementing programs designed to train, inspire, empower, and provide employment and educational opportunities for the diverse populations of Tacoma; and
     WHEREAS, Because of his leadership and avid interest in educational programs, Thomas Dixon was awarded an honorary doctorate degree from the University of Puget Sound in 1988; and
     WHEREAS, Thomas Dixon, although officially retired from his assignments as President of the Tacoma Urban League, retains his position as the leader and prominent community icon of the City of Tacoma, the State of Washington, and parts of the nation;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate hereby give honor and respect to Dr. Thomas Dixon for his commitment to excellence and his diligent work for the Tacoma Urban League, City of Tacoma, and the diverse communities of Washington State; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to Dr. Thomas Dixon and his wife and the Executive Board of the Tacoma Urban League.