Kendra Penry

Kendra Penry earned a high school diploma from High Point Central High School. She earned a bachelor's degree from Hollins University in 2004 and a graduate degree from The George Washington University in 2008. Her career experience includes working as a nonprofit executive director.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am an experienced nonprofit leader and community advocate. I have served in various nonprofits for more than 20 years, most recently as the Executive Director of a nature center. I have learned more than anything else about the necessity of listening to those I am there to serve to ensure I am meeting their needs, not what I assume are their needs. I am also experienced with managing people, designing and implementing complex budgets, and guaranteeing transparency and clear communication to inspire trust. I am also a passionate volunteer in my free time, from serving as a Court Appointed Special Advocate to be a voice for children when they are at their most vulnerable to working as a high school tennis coach to inspire a lifetime of healthy activity. I am running to return our legislature to the public service it is intended to be, one that focuses on the people I am in office to serve, not on maintaining power or making a profit.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

I am running to truly listen to the people of this district and be a loud advocate for what they need. For too long, the incumbent has been focused on toeing a party line or special interests, and this district deserves a leader that listens and advocates for the people that live here.It is possible to have a vibrant economy while still providing for a strong education system, ensuring all people have access to physical and mental health services, and preserving our incredible natural world. They are not exclusive of each other and are intricately linked.We need change now if we are serious about preserving our democracy. The incumbent is part of a party that has held a supermajority for 30 years and has increasingly worked to circumvent the will of the people to maintain power. This includes overriding the wishes of the people who approved Proposition 4 to protect against partisan gerrymandering, revoking mail in ballots that the majority of citizens wanted to preserve, and working to eliminate the citizen ballot initiative. These efforts will continue until we change the "who."

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Education and ensuring all children have access to high quality education throughout their school years. Protecting and preserving our natural spaces and everyone's access to them. Social welfare including affordability and access to mental and physical health services.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Women's Democratic Club of Utah

OE3