Senator
Yvonne Bond Miller is the eldest of 13 siblings. When she was seven years old,
her parents moved from rural North Carolina to Norfolk, Virginia for better
employment and educational opportunities. Her mother, Pency Bond, was like a
conductor of a symphony orchestra, teaching, disciplining, planning and arranging
their lives so that her children would become well-trained and educated.
Senator Miller worked hard
to acquire a bachelor's degree from Virginia State University, a master's degree
from Columbia University in New York City, and a Doctor of Philosophy degree
from the University of Pittsburgh. She began her career as a classroom teacher
and is now a professor at Norfolk State University.
In 1983, Dr. Miller made
history when she became the first black American woman elected to the Virginia
House of Delegates. Four years later, the event was repeated when she became
the first black American woman elected to the state senate. Like Senator Lee
in the North Carolina General Assembly, she serves in the state legislature
and teaches at Norfolk State University.
In the senate, she currently
serves on the following committees: Commerce and Labor, General Laws, Transportation
and Rehabilitation and Social Service.
Senator Miller has been a
member of the National Alliance of Black School Educators since its founding
and has served effectively in various positions. She is also a member of the
National Caucus of Black Legislators.
She has received certificates
and resolutions of appreciation from many organizations such as the Virginia
Women Attorneys Association and the Headstart Association. Senator Miller is
listed in "Who's Who in the South and Southwest," "Who's Who in American Education"
and "Personalities of the South."
Senator Miller has a strong
concern for people. It is her belief that people are more important than material
things. She is especially concerned about our children and youth and views them
as irreplaceable jewels.
Senator Miller also believes
that each person is endowed with a special gift that he or she must struggle
to perfect. These beliefs are reflected in her roles as college professor and
state legislator. These beliefs have been put into action, and Senator Miller
has received many awards for her service to the people of Virginia and for her
excellence as an educator.
