RESOLUTION NO. RS2016-483

A resolution recognizing Mr. Homer R. Wheaton on the celebration of his 90th birthday, and as one of the greatest philanthropists in the Nashville area.

WHEREAS, Tennessee State University is hosting a special celebration on December 9, 2016, to celebrate the life of Homer R. Wheaton. He will be 90 years old on December 19, which the university has declared “Homer Wheaton Day”; and

WHEREAS, part of the celebration, the university has also launched the “$90 For Ninety Scholarship Fundraiser” in support of Mr. Wheaton’s continued philanthropic endeavors at the institution; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Wheaton has paid for students’ college tuition out of his pocket for many years and worked tirelessly to help more than 70% of the students at Tennessee State University, for a total of more than 100,000 students to receive the necessary aid to continue their education and to graduate; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Wheaton retired from Tennessee State University in 2006 after serving with distinction over a span of nearly 50 years. After leaving financial aid, Mr. Wheaton retired as the Interim Vice President of University Relations; Mr. Wheaton served TSU as director of field services and extension, special assistant to former TSU President Walter Davis, director of financial aid, and vice president of university relations and development; and

WHEREAS, during Mr. Wheaton’s career, he has been affiliated with numerous civic and public offices, received countless awards and accolades, and has been recognized for his commitment and outstanding work that left his mark at the University and in the community; and

WHEREAS, during his time at Tennessee State University, Mr. Wheaton served as an educator, financial officer, civic leader, activist, trustee, liaison, recruiter, and impacted the lives of many who attended Tennessee State University from across the state and around the world amongst other distinguished roles; and

WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper that the Metropolitan Council recognize Homer R. Wheaton for his support and encouraging students to stay in school, his sense of persuasion that led to the recruitment of legendary football coach John Merritt, and subsequently placed TSU on the world map for its winning ways and wish him well.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

Section 1. The Metropolitan Council hereby goes on record as recognizing Mr. Homer R. Wheaton on the celebration of his 90th birthday, and as one of the greatest philanthropists in the Nashville area.

Section 2. The Metropolitan Council Office is directed to prepare a copy of this Resolution to be presented to Mr. Homer R. Wheaton.

Section 3. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Nick Leonardo, Tanaka Vercher, Mina Johnson