HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 95-4622, by Representatives Sommers, Foreman, Ebersole, Carlson, Jacobsen, Thibaudeau, Van Luven, Sheahan, Rust, Chopp, Ogden, Benton, Dyer, Blanton, Cole and Robertson
WHEREAS, Bill and Ruth Gerberding moved to Washington State in 1979 and have represented the University of Washington for the last sixteen years; and
WHEREAS, Dr. William P. Gerberding will resign his presidency at the University of Washington at the end of the 1994-95 academic year, June 30, 1995; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Gerberding will have been the longest-serving president in the history of the University of Washington; and
WHEREAS, The University of Washington has continued to be one of the finest institutions of higher learning in the nation under Dr. Gerberding's guidance; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Gerberding has been an education leader in
Washington State, the Northwest region, and the nation; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Gerberding has brought his wisdom, humor, drive, intelligence, and vision to a most demanding job; and
WHEREAS, Under the direction and guidance of Dr. Gerberding, the University of Washington successfully initiated the Campaign for Washington which inspired contributions from more than 70,000 individuals and several corporations and foundations totaling two hundred eighty-four million dollars in gifts and pledges from 1987 to 1992; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Gerberding has focused on undergraduate education as one of the University's top priorities with the appointment of a dean for Undergraduate Education and new programs such as the Entry-Level Initiative, freshman interest groups, and faculty seminars; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Gerberding was instrumental in the creation of a task force to examine the undergraduate experience, graduate education, and academic reorganization; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Gerberding has led the University to its number-one ranking for all public universities in federal research funding; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Gerberding has successfully led the way for the opening of two branch campuses in Bothell and Tacoma, bringing education opportunities to the broader communities of Washington State; and
WHEREAS, The University has grown under the watchful eye of Dr. Gerberding, adding the Kenneth S. Allen Library, a new Physics/Astronomy building, a new Chemistry building, and additions to the Magnuson Health Sciences Center; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Gerberding has created a successful work environment based upon a great respect for University faculty, which now includes four Nobel Prize recipients and thirty-four members of the National Academy of Sciences; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Gerberding has never wavered in his commitment to maintaining a diverse student body and faculty that represents the many cultural and ethnic populations in Washington State; and
WHEREAS, Ruth Gerberding has tirelessly supported the University of Washington and the greater community with her involvement in and her support of the Seattle Symphony, Cathedral Associates, Market Place North Homeowners Association, Hillside Guild, Meany Hall Advisory Committee, and the Seattle/Perugia Sister City Organization; and
WHEREAS, Ruth Gerberding gives of her time and expertise to serve on the boards of the Seattle Chamber Music Festival, The Market Foundation, The Washington State Committee of the National Museum of Women in the Arts, and The Achievement Rewards for College Scientists; and
WHEREAS, Ruth Gerberding has made innumerable contributions to the University, including her volunteer work for the University Hospital and the greater community;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State House of Representatives honor Bill and Ruth Gerberding for the dedicated service and commitment they have shown in their work and the innumerable contributions they have made to the University of Washington and the greater community of the state of Washington; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives to Bill and Ruth Gerberding.
I hereby 4622 certify this to be a true and correct copy of
Resolution adopted by the House of Representatives
February 15, 1995.
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Timothy A. Martin, Chief Clerk