HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 2022-4637

HR 4637

ByRepresentatives Leavitt and Taylor

WHEREAS, Dr. John Utendale broke barriers throughout his life, first in professional hockey, and then in higher education in Washington state; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Utendale was the first black man to sign an NHL contract, and played for years for a number of teams such as the Quebec Aces and the Edmonton Flyers; and

WHEREAS, During his playing days, he began his studies and earned his teaching certificate, later teaching junior high math, science, and physical education; and

WHEREAS, While playing full time for the Spokane Jets, Dr. Utendale earned his master's degree from Eastern Washington University; and

WHEREAS, Washington State University recruited Dr. Utendale to serve as Assistant Dean of Students, and during his time there he earned his doctorate in education while teaching, coaching Little League Baseball, and serving on the Washington State Human Rights Commission; and

WHEREAS, He then joined Western Washington University as its first black faculty member of the College of Education, leading the university's Student Personnel Administration graduate program for more than 25 years as well as serving other roles such as head of the Higher Education Administration; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Utendale helped create the Bellingham Area Minor Hockey Association, coached the WWU Vikings hockey club, and served as an assistant training coach to the United States Olympic hockey team that won gold at the Lake Placid Olympics; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Utendale died of cancer in 2006, but his life serves as an example of how one person can make a difference in many areas including as a teacher, coach, mentor, and trailblazer;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives honor the life and legacy of Dr. John Utendale; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives to the family of Dr. John Utendale.