2026 SESSION
ENROLLED
SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 87
Celebrating the life of Mimi Milner Elrod.
Agreed to by the Senate, February 12, 2026
Agreed to by the House of Delegates, February 16, 2026
WHEREAS, Mimi Milner Elrod, a champion of higher education who served the students of Washington and Lee University for many years and a trailblazing public servant who made history as the first female mayor of Lexington, died on March 25, 2025; and
WHEREAS, Mimi Elrod grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, where she graduated from Oglethorpe University; she began her career as a junior high school teacher in Harlem, New York, then relocated to Iowa, where she earned a master's degree and a doctorate in early childhood development; and
WHEREAS, Mimi Elrod settled in Lexington in 1984 and served Washington and Lee University in a variety of roles, including as assistant director of admissions and director of the Summer Scholars Program; she also provided vital support to her husband, John, in his roles as dean, vice president for academic affairs, and president; and
WHEREAS, after her retirement from Washington and Lee University, Mimi Elrod pursued a career in government; she initially ran for office as a state legislator, then received an appointment to fill an unexpired term on the Lexington City Council in 2003; and
WHEREAS, in recognition of her achievements and dedication to enhancing the quality of life of the people of Lexington, Mimi Elrod was elected to a full term on the Lexington City Council in 2006; and