Remembering Congressman Gerry Connolly and Former Hunter Mill Supervisor Cathy Hudgins

Congressman Gerry Connolly was a true public servant who always put people first. I had the pleasure of working for him in the Providence District on many projects as his land use aide. We worked on the redevelopment of Merrifield, which lead to the creation of the Mosaic District, the redevelopment of Tysons I and II, and hundreds of other projects.

Gerry introduced me to land use and zoning, which was the precursor to my 21-year career in economic development, and, most recently, my tenure on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. He held a special place in my life as a mentor and friend. I will truly miss Gerry and promise to continue his legacy of activist service to this community. He is one of a kind, and his legacy will live on in the Cross County Trail, the Metro’s Silver Line, the Workforce Innovation Skills Hub (W.I.S.H.) at the Hybla Valley Community Center, and affordable housing in Fairfax County.

He was a tireless public servant, not only for his constituents, but for all Americans. A loyal friend to many, he always made time to listen and offer advice when it was needed most. He will be incredibly missed by all who knew him. 

Cathy Hudgins was the first African American elected to the Board of Supervisors, serving as Hunter Mill District Supervisor from 2000 to 2019. During her tenure, she helped create the One Fairfax Policy and the Successful Children and Youth Policy Team (SCYPT). She was a passionate advocate for human services and affordable housing. Cathy led the effort in the creation of the Southgate Community Center, which offers programming for youth, teens, adults, seniors, and people with disabilities. It was renamed the Cathy Hudgins Community Center at Southgate in her honor.

Cathy also transformed transportation in the Washington metropolitan area. Among her most celebrated achievements was her advocacy in extending Silver Line Metrorail service to Tysons Corner, Reston, and Dulles International Airport. The project has been a catalyst for economic growth along the Dulles Corridor. My condolences are with Cathy's loved ones and the Reston community.