Biography

PERSONAL:
Live in Normandy Park with husband of 30 years, Dan, an emergency physician.
Two sons, one dogs.

EDUCATION:
Bachelor Degree, 1972, Washington University, St. Louis
M.D., 1979, New York Medical College
Internal Medicine, board certified, 1982, Oregon Health Sciences University
Cardiology, board certified, 1985, Oregon Health Sciences University

EMPLOYMENT:
Medical practice, Cardiology, retired 1992

HOUSE COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS:
Appropriations
Health Care
Vice Chair, Capital Budget
Chair, Joint Select Committee on Public Health Financing
Joint Task Force on Administration of Services to Children & Families.
Washington Council for the Prevention of Child Abuse & Neglect

YEARS IN HOUSE:
Fifth Term

OTHER ELECTED OFFICES:
Highline School Board (1995-1999)

LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES:
Affordable health care
Quality public education
Sustainable budget with sensible tax structure

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES:
Current:
Board Member, Mount Rainier High School Foundation (2002-2007)
Member, Highline Community College Paralegal Advisory Committee (2002-2006)
Board Member, Washington Council for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (2001-present)
Board Member, Wesley Homes and Gardens retirement facility (2000-2008)
Mothers Against Violence in America
Northwest Harvest, Store Captain (1994-present)

Former:
Parent Teacher Student Association - Legislative Representative (1994-2002)
King County Oversight Panel on Teen Health Clinics (1997-2000)
Highline School District Board of Directors (1995-1999)
Highline Schools M&O Levy Steering Committee (1998)
Phoenix Association Registrar (1993-1995)
Board Member, Board of Adjustments, City of Normandy Park (1993-1995)
West Highline Soccer Coach and Player Recruiter (1992-1995)

AWARDS:
2008: March of Dimes Maternal and Child Health Award in recognition for outstanding leadership to ensure lifesaving treatments for Washington's babies

2007:Planned Parenthood VOTES! Washington Shining Star Award

2007: WASA (Washington Association of School Administrators) Golden Gavel Award in recognition of exceptional service contributing to the enhancement of public education in Washington

2007: the Washington State Psychological Association Distinguished Public Service Award in recognition of an elected appointed official who has advanced mental health policy and legislation

2006: The King County Bar Association President’s Award for her continued efforts to effect Judicial Campaign reform

2006: the Dr Jack Brown award for her effective initiation and successful passage of Washington state legislation to create health insurance parity for mental illness and also for her years of advocacy of funding for mental health care, access to health care and for public health.

2005, Highline Council PTSA Advocacy for Youth Award
2004 & 2005, Mental Health Parity Coalition Award
2004, Children's Alliance Legislator of the Year
2004, Planned Parenthood Appreciation Award, for promoting the health of Washington's Children
2003, Washington Citizen Action, Sunshine Award
2003, American Liver Foundation, Chairman's Award for Distinguished Support
2002, Washington Academy of Family Practitioners, Legislator of the Year
2001, Washington State Medical Association, Legislator of the Year
2000, Fellow, Flemming Leadership Institute of the Center for Policy Alternatives
1999, Rising Star Award, Washington Law and Politics Magazine