Where she’s from
A self-described “Army brat”, Jan is from all over the world. Besides Johnson County, she has lived in Paris, France, Okinawa, Japan and the Washington D.C. area.
About her family
Jan has two children—a son in Houston, Texas, a daughter in Shawnee, Kansas and four grandchildren.
Why she joined the LWV
Jan joined the League because of its consistent history of educating the public and advocating on important issues, both locally and nationally.
What she thinks the League does well
Noting that the League “does everything well”, Jan feels that LWVJoCo’s continuing effort to reach out regularly to members and the public are the organization’s greatest strength. Those activities are important not only to members but enhance the community’s awareness of civic issues.
Where she would like to see the League focus in the future
After the November 3 election, Jan feels the League should continue its focus on voter suppression, racial injustice and eliminating the Electoral College.
What she does to strengthen our democracy
Not only has she served three years as a poll worker, Jan also talks about issues and voting with her family, particularly her children and grandchildren. Prior to the pandemic she worked on voter registration through the League. For the November 2020 election, she managed signups for 31 League members who provided 196 hours (!!) of service at the Johnson County Election Office October 19 through November 6.
Fun Fact
Jan volunteers with Grandparents Against Gun Violence (GAGV). She is involved with their “Lock It for Love” program, which promotes gun safety and awareness.
How she is coping with the pandemic
Jan reports that she is doing fine during this pandemic time. She greatly enjoys taking care of her house and garden and babysitting her grandchildren two days per week. Coping with the situation is therefore much easier.