“I am saddened to hear of the death of former Delegate Mary Christian.

“Delegate Christian, known as Dr. C., was an unfailing advocate for her district and her constituents. Her work as an educator, from elementary school teacher to dean of Hampton University, gave her a deep perspective on education issues. She was a trailblazer, serving as the first black woman on the Hampton School Board.

“As a legislator, Dr. C. worked to promote better education and health care for all. She advocated for more support for students with disadvantages or disabilities, as well as underserved students in gifted programs. She sponsored legislation that created the Minorities in Teaching program and worked to encourage more teachers from minority groups. And she pushed to improve health insurance coverage for a variety of health issues.

“Dr. C. leaves a deep legacy of leadership and advocacy in her community and in the state, and she will be missed. My heartfelt sympathies go out to her family and friends.”