KNEA Elections.

Amber Pagan - I am running for the minority representative position on the BOD because I believe we need a stronger voice on the board that represents the minorities in our state. I currently attend most of the board meetings, where I can listen to our union's business, and I want to take a more active role. I currently serve as a co-chair for the Racial Justice Committee at the state level, Ad Astra vice chair, and the vice president of NEA Shawnee Mission. I have been my Ad Astra’s minority representative for two years. If elected I promise to lift the voices of our minority members, bring any concerns forward, and work to increase our 3.1 g members.

LeAnne Richardson - As a dedicated educator and advocate for equity, I am excited to run for Ethnic Minority Representative on the KNEA Board of Directors. With over 10 years of experience in the classroom, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by students and educators from diverse ethnic backgrounds. I am committed to ensuring that all voices are heard and that our union’s policies reflect the needs of all members, especially those from marginalized communities. I will work tirelessly to advocate for policies that promote inclusivity, cultural competence, and social justice in education. By fostering collaboration and understanding, I believe we can create an educational environment where every student and educator can thrive. I would be honored to serve as your Ethnic Minority Representative and help shape a more equitable future for our profession. Thank you for your support.

Jennifer Curry - No statement provided.

Mallory Raugewitz-Blick - I am running to be reelected as your Director on the Board because only KNEA can lead the fight to save public education in Kansas, and we have a lot of work to do! As your Director, I work hard to bring your needs and views with me into the Board room, and when I can’t be sure what’s best for every member of all six locals in Kaw Valley, I vote on union values. I believe in the labor movement, I care about our members and staff, and I want to make sure every member has a voice in our association. A vote for me is a vote for balanced, courageous, dedicated representation – coupled with the skills and perspective of an experienced negotiator and small local President. I am excited to continue to represent Kaw Valley on the KNEA Board of Directors, and I hope to have your vote!

Andrew Bellamy - No statement provided.

Karissa Hammock - My name is Dr. Karissa Hammock, and I am proud to be a candidate for the KNEA Konza Board of Director position. As a dedicated educator with an EdD in Curriculum and Instruction, I teach mathematics in Junction City and have lived here for the past 11 years. My husband is a retired military member, and we’ve built our home here with our three adult children and grandchild. My union involvement includes serving as JCEA President, Lead Negotiator, and member of the JCEA Board of Directors. I’ve also proudly represented our educators at the KNEA and NEA Representative Assemblies, and participated in KNEA Reach and Leadership Training and Development. I am passionate about advocating for educators, strengthening our union voice, strengthening public education, and ensuring equitable opportunities for all students across the Konza region. I am committed to advancing fair contracts, safe working conditions, and professional respect for all educators.

Amelia Black - I am currently Chair of Capital UniServ AdBoard, part of NEA Leaders for Just Schools, a KPAC commissioner, and an elementary ESoL teacher.  Locally, I am vice-president and our member organizer lead.  Other union experience includes serving as a building representative, negotiations committee, trainer for Proactive Behavior Strategies, as well as being a delegate to several KNEA and NEA RAs. These roles have given me a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing educators. I am committed to ensuring that the interests of our educators are well-represented, and promoting an inclusive educational system that serves every student. Thank you for considering me for this important role. I am eager to bring my passion, experience, and dedication to serve as your KNEA NEA Director. Together, we can empower our educators and strengthen the future of education. Stronger Together!

Jill Johnson - I’m Jill Johnson, and I’m running for KNEA NEA Director B. With 18 years of experience as a math teacher, I’ve been deeply involved in my association. I advocate for members at the bargaining table and as President of NEA Shawnee Mission. A colleague once said, “Support the union that supports you,” and that’s a principle I live by every day. I recruit new members because I know the power of our collective voice, and I work tirelessly to elect education-friendly candidates at the local, state, and national levels. In a time when education is under constant attack, we can’t afford to stay silent. Serving as an NEA Director is one way I can give back to the union that supports me every day. Please support me in continuing to advocate for our union’s strength and future. Together, we can ensure our union remains a powerful force for positive change.