A house RESOLUTION

 

TO RECOGNIZE AND COMMEND CHARLESTON NATIVE LINDA JEAN HARVEY FOR HER ACHIEVEMENTS AND A LIFETIME OF SERVICE TO HER COMMUNITY.

 

Whereas, born the daughter of James Harvey and the Reverend Martha Jefferson Harvey, Charleston native Linda Jean Harvey was educated in the Charleston County School District. Having graduated from Charleston High School, she earned a degree from North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University in Greensboro; and

 

Whereas, from an early age, Linda was focused on cultivating her passion for music. She became an accomplished pianist and organist, ultimately serving as a music minister and musical program director for many years in the Charleston area; and

 

Whereas, in addition, Linda Harvey served as a professor in the College of Charleston Department of Theatre and Dance for many years, where she instructed African dance classes in order to support students' understanding of African culture and the origins and meanings of dance; and

 

Whereas, as a member of the Gamma Xi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Linda has offered her choreographic talents for various functions and is a dedicated supporter of youth activities and mentorship; and

 

Whereas, she also enjoys sharing her oratorical gifts with the community, as exemplified recently by her powerful delivery of excerpts from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech at the 27th Annual MLK Picture Awards, which honored community members for their service and contributions to the Lowcountry; and

 

Whereas, the major cornerstone of Linda Harvey's career and a testimony of her passion for cultural arts and community service was the establishment of the Divine Iambic Dancers School for the Performing Arts, an African American dance company she founded in 1981. With Linda serving as the group's artistic director for more than twenty-five years, the Iambic Dancers performed in venues around the Charleston area, including the Sottile Theatre, and collaborated with the heralded Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre. Her vision for a positive outlet and vital platform for youth performance impacted a generation in a way that continues to be felt even to this day; and

 

Whereas, steadfast in her willingness to serve and known for her thoughtfulness, Linda Harvey is also a faithful member of Greater Macedonia AME Church. Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, recognize and commend Charleston native Linda Jean Harvey for her achievements and a lifetime of service to her community.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Linda Jean Harvey.

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