Polytechnic alumnus, student pursue public offices
<p>MESA, Ariz. - Former and current students from programs of Arizona State University's Polytechnic campus are finding politics or civic service to their liking during this election year.</p><separator></separator><p>ASU Alumnus Venessa Whitener, a secondary-level educator and currently an ASU graduate student, announced her candidacy for the Higley School Board election Nov. 7.</p><separator></separator><p>Whitener, who was born and raised in Gilbert, says she knows about growing pains, and adds that she taught in inner-city Philadelphia, suburban and blue collar communities, and right here in Mesa. She is currently pursuing a Master in Education in Educational Administration and Supervision at ASU's Polytechnic campus.</p><separator></separator><p>So why does she want to play a role on the school board?</p><separator></separator><p>"I believe it's important to bring the 'educator's point of view' as well as finance experience to the school board position," says Whitener, "and I have both. I am and will always stand for what is best in the pursuit of educating children."</p><separator></separator><p>In addition to Whitener, Corinne Armstrong, an alumnus who received bachelor's degrees in industrial technology/air transportation management and environmental resources at ASU, is running for a seat as a representative in New Hampshire.</p><separator></separator><p>She formerly was an engineer with Honeywell Aerospace in Arizona before relocating to New Hampshire.</p>