Letters: Ready to move Penn State forward; Vote for public education advocates

Editor’s note: The CDT welcomes letters endorsing candidates in the May 16 primary election and will accept letters that are received by May 11. Letters are subject to editing, must be based on facts and should avoid attacks on other candidates.

Ready to move Penn State forward

Years ago, the Penn State community cultivated my passion for service and philanthropy as I led Schreyer Student Council benefiting Thon and served on the Homecoming Executive Committee. These values continue to guide me as a senior investment strategist, sustainability expert, a mentor to PSU students and a member of the Smeal Sustainability Advisory Board. Today, inspired by the values Penn State raised in me, I’m running for Penn State’s Board of Trustees alongside Melinda Kuritzky and Ali Krieger.

Penn State faces a major budget deficit amid global challenges like climate change. Cost savings and climate-smart policy aren’t mutually exclusive — they go hand-in-hand. Students are increasingly choosing schools based on institutional values and job outcomes. By supporting climate-focused research and education that prepares students to meet employers’ needs (like sourcing renewable energy), we can attract students, increase enrollment revenue, and bring in major research grants. Smart investing helps, too: universities see 6% higher donations after adopting socially responsible investment policies. Carbon-neutral campuses would save millions annually in infrastructure maintenance, operating and waste tipping costs.

Penn State taught me to serve. Now, I’m running to serve the university I love. On the board with Melinda and Ali, I’ll advocate for a Penn State that prioritizes academic excellence, institutional sustainability, equitable and safe campuses, and transparent and democratic governance. If you’re ready to move Penn State forward, learn how to cast your ballot before May 4 at PSUForward.org/vote.

Vote for public education advocates

The teachers, students and families in the State College Area School District depend on an informed and diligent school board. This incredibly hard working group of volunteer individuals are the backbone for the opportunities and support that are afforded our various school communities.

Living in a town with an outstanding school district is not something to be taken for granted. I have spent decades as an educator in this district. Now, as a retired person and a grandmother, it is my great fortune to have my grandchildren begin their schooling here.

The upcoming election is critically important. I have done my due diligence and learned about the platform of each candidate, I am supporting the following individuals:

Daniel Kobe, Aaron Miller, Anne Demo, Gretchen Brandt and Amy Bader. Slate for State are a cohesive group with shared goals. Their stated core principles include academic success for all students, trust and transparency with teachers and the community, and good financial stewardship of district resources. They are also parents of students in the district.

The high quality of success we have come to expect in the State College Area School District will be well served and supported by these five individuals, who are genuine public education advocates. Please vote for them on Tuesday, May 16.

Myers brings needed experience, skills

Evan Myers, who has served State College Borough for many years, will again seek reelection to the State College Borough Council in May. Evan has also served the Borough as a member and chairman of the Planning Commission, as well as a former councilman. His commitment to State College and our community is noteworthy.

His experience and skills are really needed at this time. Especially in the area of zoning, housing and the shrinking tax base. He brings an extensive background to all of these areas. Evan will listen to every aspect of a plan, and he will consider all alternatives, regardless of political party. This is especially important now. We must all work together for stability and safety in our community.

I encourage everyone to vote in this primary election, and to vote for Evan Myers for State College Borough Council.