Madison, WI Header
File #: 77724    Version: 1 Name: Recognizing and honoring Leslie Watkins for her exceptional contributions to the community.
Type: Resolution Status: Passed
File created: 5/8/2023 In control: Council Office
On agenda: 5/16/2023 Final action: 5/16/2023
Enactment date: 5/19/2023 Enactment #: RES-23-00371
Title: Recognizing and honoring Leslie Watkins for her exceptional contributions to the community
Sponsors: Sabrina V. Madison, Satya V. Rhodes-Conway, Juliana R. Bennett, Nikki Conklin, Jael Currie, John W. Duncan, Tag Evers, Derek Field, Yannette Figueroa Cole, MGR Govindarajan, Barbara Harrington-McKinney, Isadore Knox Jr., Amani Latimer Burris, Dina Nina Martinez-Rutherford, Charles Myadze, Marsha A. Rummel, Kristen Slack, Bill Tishler, Michael E. Verveer, Regina M. Vidaver, Nasra Wehelie
Fiscal Note
No fiscal impact.
Title
Recognizing and honoring Leslie Watkins for her exceptional contributions to the community
Body
WHEREAS, Leslie Watkins was a graduate of West High School and the University of Wisconsin-Madison where she earned a degree in theater, which led her to New York City to work in theaters on Broadway; and

WHEREAS, Leslie returned to Madison and became a trailblazer and inspiration to many as one of the first Black women to own a retail business, Paperteria, in the downtown; and

WHEREAS, Leslie was a woman of conviction and a creative force who excelled in marketing, visual arts, fashion, and social media, always bringing her unique perspective to everything she did; and

WHEREAS, Leslie was a savvy businesswoman with impeccable taste and a keen eye for opportunity; and

WHEREAS, Leslie was a supportive and accessible leader, at all times willing to lend a hand and share her expertise with those around her, including serving on the Madison Public Market Foundation Board; and

WHEREAS, Leslie was a mover and shaker in the community, moving in and out of various causes and interest with ease, and consistently at the forefront of political issues, social awareness, fashion, and design; and

WHEREAS, Leslie had a warm and welcoming presence, with a contagious enthusiasm for life that made her the brightest light in any room; and

WHEREAS, Leslie was a well-traveled and well-connected individual who will be most remembered for her ability to bring people together. If Leslie found you interesting, then watch out - you were about be included in her circle of friends and colleagues that continued to grow and grow over the years, from coast to coast and in the middle;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Madison, Wisconsin recognizes and honors Leslie Watkins for her exceptional contributions to the community, her unwavering commitment to excellence, and her extraordinary spirit of creativity, passion, and generosity. Her leg...

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