In Honor of Gov. Granholm
When I first came to EMILY's List a few months ago, I have to admit that I didn't know a whole lot about Governor Jennifer Granholm. As a New Yorker, I didn't spend too much time reading up on Michigan politics. But as my internship here comes to a close, I'm grateful that I've had the opportunity to learn about the fabulous women EMILY's List has helped to elect over the past 25 years, including Gov. Granholm.
Around here, it's hard to turn a corner without seeing a profile of Granholm's image. During her past eight years as governor, she put improving Michigan's education system front and center. She prioritized readiness for higher education by mandating college preparation as part of every young Michigander's high school curriculum. She stepped into office at a time when the state's economy was rocky at best and worked to turn it around, balance the budget, and create or save over 650,000 jobs. As Gov. Granholm steps aside, we look to honor of all her great service, her many accomplishments, and wait with baited breath to see her next great endeavor.
Back in 2002, when Granholm was serving as the state's attorney general (the first woman in Michigan elected to the position) and running for governor, she joined EMILY's List at our annual conference to speak passionately about our continual FAQ -- "Who is Emily?" Among the long list of women who, in her eyes, comprised EMILY, was this one who really stuck with me: "that same woman who only wants her daughters to dream big dreams, because EMILY knows that young girls cannot be what they cannot see."
Granholm is a remarkable woman who served Michigan with poise and ingenuity. Her legacy will live on and she will be fondly remembered for the lasting impact her policies and programs had on the state she loved. And, you can bet that the young women of Michigan are dreaming bigger knowing that they're just as capable of running their state one day as the boys.
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