Dr. Thornell Kenly Page Recognition Resolution of 2026

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Anita Bonds

Ceremonially recognizes Dr. Thornell Kenly Page for his leadership in education, public service, economic development, and historic preservation in DC.

Resolution ACR26-0163, Effective from Jun 02, 2026 Published in DC Register Vol 73 and Page 009251

Overview

CER 26-0167, the Dr. Thornell Kenly Page Recognition Resolution of 2026, is a ceremonial resolution in the District of Columbia Council. Its primary purpose is to recognize and honor the life, work, and legacy of Dr. Thornell Kenly Page, highlighting his contributions to education, community development, historic preservation, and public service in the District.

Purpose and Intent

Acknowledge Dr. Thornell Kenly Page’s lifelong commitment to:

Educational opportunity and advancement
Public service and community empowerment
Economic development and support for minority-owned businesses
Historic preservation of African American heritage sites in DC

Commend his leadership, scholarship, and service to improve access to education and resources for residents, particularly low-income families, seniors, and young Black students pursuing higher education.

Key Provisions

Formal recognition: The Council will recognize Dr. Page’s extraordinary contributions to the District and commend his leadership, scholarship, service, and community empowerment.

Citation and title: The resolution designates the act as the "Dr. Thornell Kenly Page Recognition Resolution of 2026."

Effective date: The resolution takes effect immediately upon its first publication in the DC Register.

Who/What Is Affected

Individuals and institutions connected to Dr. Page’s legacy (educational programs, community initiatives, and historic preservation efforts) are ceremonially acknowledged.

No fiscal impact, regulatory changes, or administrative requirements are introduced; the measure is purely ceremonial in nature.

The resolution serves as public formal recognition by the DC Council.

Procedural and Timeline Details

Introduction: Introduced by Councilmember Anita Bonds (co-sponsor) and filed with the Office of the Secretary.

Action history:

2026-06-01: CER26-0167 introduced by Councilmember Bonds
2026-06-02: Retained by the Council (no further action noted in the provided history)

Effective date: Immediate upon publication in the DC Register.

Notable Background on Dr. Thornell Kenly Page (as described in the text)

Education: Attained degrees from Johnson C. Smith University, the University of the District of Columbia, and Virginia Tech.

Roles: Director of the Cooperative Extension Service at UDC; Deputy Director of the Office of Community Services at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services during the Clinton administration.

Initiatives: Led community-based programs across all eight wards addressing public health, urban agriculture, education, and neighborhood empowerment.

Advocacy: Supported youth achievement and education through the Washington Teachers' Union Scholarship Fund Trust; promoted opportunities for minority-owned businesses and neighborhood revitalization.

Historic preservation: Worked to protect the Mt. Zion Cemetery and the Female Union Band Society Cemetery in Georgetown.

Personal: Remembered as a mentor, church leader, and public servant with a lasting impact on the DC community.

Summary

CER 26-0167 is a ceremonial resolution recognizing Dr. Thornell Kenly Page for his contributions to education, public service, economic development, and historic preservation in the District of Columbia. It formally commends his leadership and legacy, designates the act as the Dr. Thornell Kenly Page Recognition Resolution of 2026, and becomes effective immediately upon publication in the DC Register. The measure does not impose duties or fiscal obligations beyond symbolic recognition.