I have been a proud Arizonan for 33 years. It has been the perfect place to raise my family and grow a number of small businesses. Many of my neighbors were also drawn to this beautiful state, with its rich heritage and rich future. There will be some challenges ahead for our state and some tough choices to be made. Arizona needs experienced leaders who are committed to making our educational system strong and accessible to everyone. As a member of the MCCCD Governing Board, I will continue to draw on my experience as a fiscally responsible leader in the Arizona State Legislature during the last recession. I will continue to create balanced budgets and be a good steward of taxpayer funds. When our citizens are educated, it helps our state remain strong and competitive in a national and global economy.