Monthly Meeting

I am a third-generation Floridian, currently living on the Hillsborough County side of Odessa, Florida. Born and raised in the Greater Tampa Bay Area by strong Democratic parents, Margaret and Carl Hanna, I was taught early on the importance of civic responsibility. My parents set a powerful example, always showing up to the polls for every election. I have proudly voted in every election since I turned 18.

As a lifelong Democrat, I am best described by the famous words of John F. Kennedy: "If by a "Liberal" they mean someone who looks ahead and not behind, someone who welcomes new ideas without rigid reactions, someone who cares about the welfare of the people - their health, their housing, their schools, their jobs, their civil rights and their civil liberties - someone who believes we can break through the stalemate and suspicions that grip us in our policies abroad, if that is what they mean by a "Liberal," then I'm proud to say I'm a "Liberal!"

I retired in 2021 after decades of service with Hillsborough County Public Schools as a school social worker. Throughout my career, I worked on legislative initiatives that directly impacted early childhood education and homeless students. In my final role as the district’s Homeless Liaison, I developed and delivered professional development training on homelessness and proudly represented the district on local and national platforms, including an appearance on 60 Minutes.

I am a proud member of the Hillsborough Education Association-Retired. In 2024, I was elected as Precinct Committeewoman for Precinct 528, continuing my commitment to grassroots Democratic organizing. I am deeply involved in my community and always ready to step up where I’m needed most.

President of the State Public Education Caucus, I focus on expanding the number of county caucuses throughout Florida. I will collaborate with DEC Chairs, clubs, and caucuses statewide to recruit and promote pro-public-education candidates for school board elections and beyond, including local, state, and federal offices. During the legislative session, I ensure that the Florida Legislature hears our voice loud and clear: public education is a public good, and it must be fully funded and protected! I track legislation and keep members and DECs informed and ready for when action is needed. Additionally, I work with the board and interested members to provide valuable training for our state conferences.

Above all, I never have and never will waver in my commitment to promote, protect, and strengthen public education for all Floridians.