Celebrating the life of Susan Bulkley Kellom.

2026, 1st Special Session Introduced by Elizabeth Bennett-Parker

The bill honors Susan Kellom’s lifelong public service in Alexandria, recognizing her military, civic, political, and cultural leadership.

Bill text as passed Senate (SR2016ER)

Summary of Senate Resolution No. 2016 (2026 Special Session I, Virginia)

Purpose and Intent

SR 2016 is a ceremonial resolution recognizing and commemorating the life and public service of Susan Bulkley Kellom.

The resolution expresses the Senate of Virginia’s respect and sadness at her passing on April 11, 2026, and acknowledges her contributions to the Alexandria community and to civic life in Virginia.

Key Provisions and Content

Acknowledgment of Susan Kellom’s background:

Born in Philadelphia; graduate of Gettysburg College.
Served in the United States Army as a military police officer, noted as one of the early women selected for the military police advanced course.

Summary of public service and community involvement in Alexandria, Virginia:

Active involvement with numerous local civic and political organizations.
Service on multiple local commissions and boards, including:
Alexandria Commission for Women (1997–2013) and later the Friends of the Alexandria Commission for Women.
Alexandria Youth Policy Commission (1997–2003).
Alexandria Human Rights Commission (longtime member; served as chair for two terms).
Chair of the Alexandria Democratic Party Committee (1999–2010), with leadership and mentorship of candidates and local leaders.
Chair of the Alexandria Electoral Board (appointed in 2012), overseeing the registrar’s office and electoral process.
Notable contribution to Alexandria’s cultural scene through driving efforts to establish MetroStage in Alexandria.

Family acknowledgement:

Preceded in death by her husband, Bernard.
Survived by her brother, David, stepchildren, Janet, Theresa, and Bernard, among other relatives and friends.

Who/What Is Affected

This is a purely ceremonial measure with symbolic impact:

Formal recognition by the Senate of Virginia of Susan Kellom’s life and service.
Presentation of a copy of the resolution to Kellom’s family via the Clerk of the Senate.

Procedural and Timeline Details

Status: Introduced in the 2026 Special Session I.

Action history:

Presented and laid on the Clerk’s Desk on April 23, 2026.

Sponsor:

Primary sponsor: Senator Bennett (with co-sponsor Senator Elizabeth Bennett-Parker).

Effective impact:

No statutory changes, obligations, or appropriations; the resolution serves as an official commendation and expression of Senate honor.

Potential Impact

Honors a prominent local leader and veteran, highlighting service across military, civic, political, and cultural spheres.

May inform constituents about the scope of Kellom’s community impact and serve as a historical record of Virginia’s recognition of local contributions.

Could inspire public remembrance and recognition of similar civic-minded figures in the future.