The Shadow
- Strengthening Higher Education and Workforce Development
- Supporting Virginia’s Agricultural Community and Rural Economy
- Honoring the Life and Legacy of Rodney Eagle
- Honoring Frank Shakespeare: A Life of Service, Perseverance, and Achievement
- Celebrating Catherine Watts’ 100th Birthday
- Delivering for Virginia’s Sixth District
Strengthening Higher Education and Workforce Development
Last week, I joined higher education leaders from across Virginia’s Sixth District and representatives from the U.S. Department of Education for my annual Higher Education Roundtable discussion on the challenges facing our colleges, universities, and students.
Before the discussion, I toured Mountain Gateway Community College’s Rockbridge Regional Center to see firsthand how the college is preparing students with the skills and training needed to succeed in today’s workforce while strengthening our regional economy.
Virginia’s future depends on the opportunities we create for the next generation. I will continue working to strengthen workforce development, expand access to opportunity, and ensure students have the tools they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond. Investing in our students today is an investment in the future of the Commonwealth.
Supporting Virginia’s Agricultural Community and Rural Economy
I was honored to join members of the Augusta County Farm Bureau for their 76th Annual Meeting.
Virginia’s agricultural community is vital to our economy, our rural communities, and the families who depend on the food our farmers produce. The meeting provided an opportunity to hear directly from farmers, producers, and agricultural leaders about the challenges they face and the issues shaping the future of agriculture across the Commonwealth.
I appreciate the Augusta County Farm Bureau’s continued advocacy on behalf of Virginia’s farmers and rural communities. I will continue working to support policies that strengthen our agricultural industry, address the challenges facing our producers, and ensure Virginia’s farmers have the resources they need to keep our communities fed and our rural economy strong.
Honoring the Life and Legacy of Rodney Eagle
It was an honor to recognize the life and legacy of Rodney Eagle, a dedicated public servant, proud Marine, and longtime pillar of the Harrisonburg community.
Rodney served our nation honorably in the U.S. Marine Corps, achieving the rank of Corporal. Following his military service, he married Sylvia Liskey, and together they shared 67 years of marriage. He went on to serve Harrisonburg in numerous capacities, including three terms as Mayor, dedicating much of his life to the people and community he called home.
Rodney’s impact extended far beyond City Hall. He was always willing to lend a hand, supporting local civic organizations and nonprofits and offering his time, resources, and experience wherever they were needed. Whether providing tents from Eagle Carpet for community events or personally helping Open Doors move between host churches, or donating the company truck to support its mission, Rodney consistently found ways to serve others.
He was also known for sharing his wisdom with everyone from aspiring real estate agents and fellow City Council members to neighbors and friends. Rodney’s life was defined by service, generosity, and a deep love for Harrisonburg. It was a privilege to recognize his remarkable contributions and honor a legacy that will continue to make a difference in the community for generations to come.
It was an honor to recognize Frank Shakespeare for his extraordinary life of service, achievement, and dedication to others by presenting him with a commemorative plaque.
In May, Frank celebrated his 96th birthday, marking a life filled with remarkable accomplishments. As a member of the U.S. Naval Academy rowing team, he represented the United States at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, where he and his teammates defeated the Soviet Union to win gold. Their achievement earned them the nickname “The Great Eight” from Life Magazine.
Following his Olympic victory, Frank served 11 years in the U.S. Navy before beginning a long career teaching mathematics to students in Baltimore, Maryland. His commitment to serving others continued well beyond the classroom, as he has spent years sharing his wisdom and life lessons with younger generations.
Frank’s personal motto, “Be a Winner,” reflects a life defined by perseverance, faith, and a determination to make the most of the talents and opportunities God provides. It was a privilege to recognize Frank’s incredible legacy and celebrate a man whose example continues to inspire others.
Celebrating Catherine Watts’ 100th Birthday
While in the district, I had the privilege of joining Catherine Watts of Buchanan and her family and friends to celebrate an extraordinary milestone: her 100th birthday.
Born and raised in Buchanan, Catherine has spent a century building a life defined by faith, family, hard work, and service to the community she calls home. On August 17, she celebrated 100 years of a life that has touched countless others.
For more than 75 years, Catherine has been a faithful member of Trinity United Methodist Church, where she has served on committees, sung in the choir, and poured countless hours into her church and community. She spent 45 years working at Lee’s Carpets and Burlington Industries while raising her family and remaining deeply involved in the Buchanan community. One hundred years of faith, love, hard work, and service have left a lasting mark on Buchanan and on the many generations blessed to know her.
It was an honor to celebrate Catherine and this incredible milestone with the people who love her most. Happy 100th birthday, Catherine!
Delivering for Virginia’s Sixth District
I am proud to continue delivering results for the people of Virginia’s Sixth District, especially those who have served our Nation.
When a constituent contacted my office for assistance with his Aid and Attendance claim and veterans pension through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), our team immediately got to work. We identified a delay related to a pending backfill request that was preventing his claim from moving forward.
Through our intervention and expedited action, the issue was resolved within just two business days. His claim was successfully processed, securing $16,500 in back pay and an additional $2,358 per month in ongoing benefits.
Our Veterans have earned these benefits through their service and sacrifice. I remain committed to ensuring they receive the support they deserve and that my office continues to deliver meaningful results for the constituents we serve.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your Congressman. If my office can ever be of assistance, please contact my Washington office at (202) 225-5431.
For the latest updates from Washington and across the Sixth District, please follow my Facebook and Twitter pages.
Pictured are Dr. Ken Ruscio, President of Washington and Lee University; Dr. John Rainone, President of Mountain Gateway Community College; Stephanie Giesecke of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities; Dr. David Barker, Assistant Secretary for Postsecondary Education at the U.S. Department of Education; Chris Peace of the Council of Independent Colleges in Virginia; Lt. Gen. David Furness, Superintendent of Virginia Military Institute; and Dr. Gary Daynes, President of Mary Baldwin University.
