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Rhode Island Senate adopts cluster of ceremonial resolutions and confirms Deborah J. Goddard to Rhode Island Housing
Summary
On March 13, 2025, the Rhode Island Senate passed a series of ceremonial resolutions — marking St. Patrick’s Day, St. Joseph’s Day, Arts in the Schools Month, Profound Autism Day and honoring a parade honoree and Bryant University — and confirmed Deborah J. Goddard to the Rhode Island Housing and Mortgage Finance Corporation (36–0).
PROVIDENCE — The Rhode Island Senate on March 13 passed a set of ceremonial resolutions and confirmed an appointment to the state housing authority during a brief session that included introductions, committee notices and a recess at the end of the day.
Senators approved several resolutions that mark cultural observances and recognize community achievement. Senator Mark McKinney introduced a resolution celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day and stressed his family ties to Ireland, stating, “I’m a proud son of Ireland.” The measure, which recounts Irish contributions to American history and directs the secretary of state to transmit certified copies to the American Irish State Legislators Caucus, was seconded and adopted by voice vote.
Senator Andrew R. Dimitri moved a resolution commemorating Saint Joseph’s Day and linked the observance to Italian American traditions; that measure also passed by voice vote. Senator John P. Burke introduced a resolution honoring Emily Santieri for being named “Miss Ireland” in the West Warwick Saint Patrick’s Day parade; Burke moved the resolution, introduced Santieri and her family to the chamber, and the resolution was adopted.
The Senate also proclaimed March 2025 as "Arts in the Schools Month." Senator Hannah M. Gallo cited work by the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts and the Department of Education and noted statewide student performances and exhibits; Senator Lauria spoke in support. The chamber adopted the arts resolution by voice vote.
Senator Megan E. Coleman introduced and moved a resolution designating March 17, 2025, as "Profound Autism Day," citing Centers for Disease Control estimates and describing the needs of people with profound autism. Coleman described a constituent’s experience and moved the resolution, which the Senate adopted by voice vote.
Members also approved a resolution congratulating the Bryant University men’s basketball team on winning the America East regular season and conference tournament championships; the resolution noted players and Coach Phil Martelli Jr. and wished the team luck in the upcoming NCAA tournament.
On a separate, formal action, the Senate voted to confirm Deborah J. Goddard as a vice to the Rhode Island Housing and Mortgage Finance Corporation for a term expiring July 1, 2025. The clerk announced 36 affirmative votes and none negative; the appointment was granted.
After the votes the chamber reverted to introductions and committee announcements. Senators noted several committee meeting times and introduced guests from organizations including the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts and local community groups. With no further business, the Senate stood in recess.
What’s next: The adopted ceremonial resolutions will be transmitted to the secretary of state and to the House as appropriate; Deborah J. Goddard will assume the confirmed role at Rhode Island Housing according to the appointment language.
