Why I Support Kathy Danek…

Growing up is hard. Growing up with role models like Kathy Danek make it easier.

I first met Kathy when I was about 16 years old through our work together at the Northeast Family Center. We served on the Board of Directors together for years and I was always so grateful for her leadership, her friendship, and her overall good sense. I was lucky to see Kathy’s ability to fight for Northeast Lincoln firsthand during the formative years as a teenager. I will always carry part of Kathy’s style with me, because she was so influential in demonstrating how to effectively advocate for your community.
Kathy’s love and teachings didn’t stop when I went to college. She was one of the first people to welcome me with open arms into the world of community service and always available to help guide me as I grew into the person I am today. Admittedly, when I was in my early 20s I was worried about how people would receive me being gay. I will never forget our breakfast at The Engine House Cafe where she assured me that you always have to be true to yourself and that everything else will follow. She gave me the courage to be authentic to myself. A crucial message to someone taking their first steps in the world.

In addition to my personal relationship with Kathy, I will always be grateful for her leading the fight to keep Dawes open. I’ve spent over a third of my life at Dawes Middle School as a student, a therapist, and a social worker. Dawes was a safe home for me throughout my life where I spent some of my toughest moments. Because of Kathy, the love and security I always felt at Dawes will continue on for the next generation of kids from Northeast Lincoln.

I could never thank her enough for all she has done for me and Northeast Lincoln. I cannot wait to vote Kathy Danek for School Board tomorrow.

Will you please join me?

James Michael Bowers
City Council Member

I am grateful for leaders like Kathy Danek who not only value public education, but work tirelessly to provide the governance, policy and resources required to effectively educate all of our students … As the principal at Dawes Middle School I have seen the commitment and determination she has in advocating for students and families, especially those underserved. Kathy values equity and is a vocal champion in ensuring all students have access to a high quality education as well as enrichment and extended activities outside of the classroom…She is one of the most remarkable women I have met and her legacy will be long felt not only in Lincoln Public Schools, but in all of the communities she has served.

Angie Plugge
Former Principal Dawes Middle School