Former dean files for Senate District 46

Shannon O'Brien, former dean of Missoula College and education policy advisor to Governor Bullock is running for Montana Senate in District 46 as a democrat. Montana Federation of Public Employees (MFPE) and the current outgoing Senator Sue Malek endorsed her.

Raised by a teacher and small business owner in a rural town, O'Brien said, "The truth is, we are all really more alike than we are different. By focusing on the similarities that we share, and not the few differences, we can roll up our sleeves together and tackle the tough problems to find solutions that work."

O'Brien has been in the field of education for over 25 years. She started her career as a high school social studies teacher and coach. She later worked in rural areas to help American Indian students and families from low-income backgrounds overcome barriers to be successful in college.

As dean of Missoula College, O'Brien prioritized the statewide apprenticeship program, increasing the number of rural healthcare workers by hundreds. "Not everyone can stop what they're doing, relocate and go back to school. A simple solution is to allow people to learn and earn college degrees on the job."

As an advocate for education, O'Brien is running to protect a healthy district. She hopes to help ensure responsible management of our rich natural resources so that rivers, creeks and ecosystems are healthy for generations. Additionally O'Brien is concerned about a tax system that is fair, affordable health care for everyone and investing in high quality childcare and education.

O'Brien has a doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Montana. She ran for office and was elected in 2004 as Charter Review Commissioner. She lives in Senate District 46 and enjoys hiking and exploring the vastness of the area, visiting with citizens and attending Community Council Meetings to hear the perspectives of people and the issues that matter the most.