President Cynthia Newbill led the Richmond City Council in a public recognition of Joyce L. Davis on the night the council convened, presenting a plaque and remarks honoring Davis’s 16 years of service to the council.

The council said Davis served “above and beyond the call of duty” during her tenure as a council policy analyst and as interim council chief of staff. President Cynthia Newbill said the council and the city are “proud and lucky” to have benefited from Davis’s institutional knowledge and dedication.

Several current and former council members offered prepared remarks. Former Council Member Kristen Nye called Davis “incredible” and highlighted Davis’s knowledge and mentorship. Council Member Robertson, Council Member Lynch and others recounted Davis’s behind-the-scenes work — researching policy options, helping new members orient to council procedures and taking early- and late-hour calls on constituent and policy matters.

Davis accepted a plaque and a booklet of comments from council members. In her remarks she thanked colleagues and family members who attended and noted that she would keep the plaque and booklet as mementos. The recognition included a brief reception and photographs on the council chamber floor.

The council’s presentation recorded Davis’s service dates in remarks and the plaque: 16 years of service, including service as interim council chief of staff from May 2008 through December 2024. No formal vote or policy action was associated with the recognition; it was ceremonial.

Council members closed the awards portion of the meeting and moved on to the business portion of the agenda.