Heather was born and raised in Sartell, a small town not unlike her current home of Vadnais Heights; community meant treating your neighbors like family, taking care of each other, grieving together, and celebrating together. Her family knew everyone in town. Their lives were intimately linked. The values Heather learned growing up in Sartell are what drive her today.
Her mother was a preschool teacher at the local Catholic school and her father worked across the state as a sales manager. They worked hard and were able to save the funds necessary to send Heather and her sister to college. Heather majored in Mass Communications at Minnesota State Moorhead, and like many folks, found a career outside of her field of study when she fell into radio as a college job.
Radio is what led Heather to the Twin Cities with a job at K102, which began a 13 year long career in radio broadcasting. As her family grew, Heather decided to return to school and pursue a new career as a history teacher. She has spent the bulk of her time teaching at Centennial High School. Heather has lived in Vadnais Heights for almost 12 years, where she has raised her four daughters. Her family volunteers in Vadnais Heights and belongs to St. Joseph of the Lakes in Lino Lakes.
Why Heather is running in this moment
Politics can be ugly. Trusting that our representatives have our best interests at heart can be difficult. Believing something better is possible can be as well.
With all we face as individuals, families, and communities, now is the time we must work together for change. Heather is running to bring your voice to the state senate. She is motivated by your strength and your kindness, even in your struggles.
A mom, teacher, and community builder, she understands the blessings and hardships, opportunities and challenges families across our district face. She is part of the community she hopes to represent. Her ears and heart are open to everyone in Senate District 36, now and when she becomes your senator. Her fight is your fight. Her dreams are your dreams. Her goals are your goals. Quality schools, good jobs, individual freedom, and strong communities. A brighter future for Minnesotans is ahead of us.