SR-6, As Adopted by Senate, January 31, 2007

            Senator Whitmer offered the following resolution:

            Senate Resolution No. 6.

            A resolution honoring Herman C. Coleman in memory of a lifetime of service to the state of Michigan and his service at the national level.

            Whereas, It is with deep sadness that we learn of the passing of former Michigan Insurance Commissioner Herman C. Coleman; and

            Whereas, Mr. Coleman was a most influential and respected leader in education, health care, and insurance; and

            Whereas, His contributions in racial equity, as the director of the Minority Affairs Division for the Michigan Education Association and his involvement in statewide deliberations on desegregation of school districts, made a monumental mark on Michigan education; and

            Whereas, He became a man of firsts and was the first African American to serve as executive director of the Michigan Education Association, where he served with distinction for ten years; and

            Whereas, Mr. Coleman was the first African American to serve as the state of Michigan Insurance Commissioner, being appointed by Governor James Blanchard to this important position where he served meritoriously; and

            Whereas, Herm Coleman provided educational expertise at the national level in his positions with the National Education Association and his appointment in 1980 as Assistant Secretary of Education in the United States Department of Education; and

            Whereas, Herm Coleman’s corporate expertise and vision were demonstrated as a vice president for the Automobile Association of America (AAA), an equity partner and director of marketing for Internet Medical Billing, and managing partner of the Insured Vehicle Identification Network; and

            Whereas, Herm Coleman was the loving husband of his late wife Kay and the loving father of his daughters, Hope and Heather, and leaves many friends who will cherish his friendship and memory; and

            Whereas, Throughout his life and careers, his insight and accomplishments were recognized with many honors and awards, including a special award from his beloved alma mater, Alcorn College; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the Senate, That we are honored to recognize the outstanding lifetime accomplishments in memory of Herman C. Coleman and extend our sincere condolences to his family; and be it further

            Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to the children of Herman C. Coleman, Hope and Heather, in remembrance of this great citizen of Michigan and as a token of our esteem.