Understanding my background helps you to understand my passion for community and why I want to serve the 18th District as your next Representative. I grew up on the Allegany Indian territory in Western New York State. This territory is home to the Seneca Nation of Indians (SNI). My childhood was steeped in community service and watching as my family members ran for public office. My grandfather, George Heron, was the President of the Seneca Nation during some of the most trying times in SNI history. My father, David Heron, was a tribal councilman and peacemakers judge. Further, other family members continue the tradition of political service and inspire me. But, serving politically was not the only example I had from my upbringing. Volunteering in community was also instilled at a young age. Whether it was my Dad and his service to the American Legion (a 5 time Commander of the Salamanca American Legion), or my Mom’s service to Girl Scouts, United Way and through her church, I was taught that community does not survive without active service.

Service and community have been continuing themes throughout my life. Educationally, I was called to serve as a teacher. First receiving a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Science Education and then teaching through the AmeriCorp Vista program in local jails to then earning a Master’s Degree in Community Development because I understood the need for community to support education in order for education to serve community. I went on for a PhD in Rural Sociology because I wanted to take this idea of how to change community to the collegiate level. I wanted to teach students how to analyze our community challenges and then use evidence based solutions to help improve that space we love.

My husband Jason and I moved to Elizabethtown in 2009 when I came to work for Western Kentucky University. In 2010, our daughter, Abigail, was born. Jason and I grew up in different places, our families are in different places around the US and we needed to make a decision of where we wanted OUR roots to be planted. We CHOSE Kentucky. We arrived in a place that valued that which we hold dear: community, service to others and citizens that want the best for their children.

I want to continue building those values through service as your next Representative from the 18th District. I want to help build public policy that creates a healthier and highly productive Kentucky. Help me become your next representative.