Women Officials Network Presents 'Me? Run for Public Office??'

The non-partisan Women Officials Network presents a half-day workshop “Me?  Run for Office” on Saturday, April 14, 9am to noon, at Oakland University’s Oakland Room located in the Student Center.  This program is free of charge and is sponsored by the Women Officials Network, the WON Foundation, and the State Bar of Michigan Young Lawyers Section.

“Never has it been more important for women to come to the table as policymakers,” says Mary Kerwin, WON President.  “We are pleased to offer this workshop for women thinking about running for office or considering appointed positions.”

The workshop includes a Keynote speaker and a Panel featuring representatives from a variety of non-partisan and partisan offices.  Panelists will share their experiences campaigning for their seats and the challenges they face while serving. 

The panel members are: Chief Probate Judge for Oakland County’s Probate Court-the Honorable Linda Hallmark, Oakland County Commissioner Marcia Gershenson, Oak Park Mayor Marian McClellan Auburn Hills Mayor Pro Tem Maureen Hammond, Rochester Community Schools Board of Education Vice President Beth Talbert, and Bloomfield Township Public Library Trustee Pam Williams.  Workshop attendees will be able to ask questions of the panelists and network with many prominent elected officials.

Keynote speaker Shannon Garrett will explain some of the nuts and bolts of running for office.  She is Founder and President of SMG Strategies Inc., a firm that helps current and aspiring political leaders embrace their political ambition and plan their paths to elected and appointed offices.   Shannon has coordinated candidate training for the White House Project and Ready to Run Michigan.

Participants are encouraged to pre-register for the half-day workshop and get a running start exploring the opportunities for public service. Click here to register online or call WON Administrator Pam Hansen at 248-613-3312.

The preceding information was submitted by Pamela Hansen/Women Officials Network.