Nancy Lee Peterson

Nancy Lee Peterson earned a high school diploma from Burlington High School, a bachelor's degree from Brigham Young University in 1980, a graduate degree from Old Dominion University in 1994, and a degree from the University of Virginia in 1998.

Peterson's career experience includes working as a professor.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Hello, neighbors in Utah House District 57!

I’m Nancy Peterson and I'm offering a write-in alternative for the Utah State Legislature. I’ve called Orem home for 29 years; living, working, volunteering, raising children, and building a life I love here.

My career at Utah Valley University began when UVU was growing from a technical school and 2-year college into a 4-year university. I stayed because I believed in its mission and wanted to contribute to the education of teachers and to the life of a university known for its growing excellence.

Throughout my years in Orem, I’ve looked for meaningful ways to serve. I’ve served on the Orem Arts Council, participated in church auxiliary organizations, and donated platelets through the Red Cross. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to community, service, and helping others.

After four years of retirement, I’m ready for a new chapter of service. I'm disillusioned by the anger and hatred I see in politics. I want to prevent what I see at the national level from corrupting our state government. I will listen carefully, learn from others, communicate openly, and work hard to represent the people of District 57. I want to help preserve and strengthen the distinctive quality of life we share in Orem and throughout our community.

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?

As a Democratic write-in candidate for Utah House District 57, I believe voters deserve a meaningful choice in every election. When a candidate runs unopposed, it can be easy for that elected official to remain “unknown” to the community and for voters to feel disconnected from the legislative process. Without a choice, some voters may lose interest in following legislative work or feel that their opinions will not matter once the session begins. It is easy to have “no skin in the game” and become complacent. My candidacy offers an opportunity for voters to engage, ask questions, collaborate, and stay connected to the work of their elected representative.I commit to working just as hard to stay in touch with constituents, seek your input, and report on our progress as I will to understand, research, and contribute to the legislative work. I plan to hold brief, regular focus groups for constituents of all political affiliations, offered both in person and virtually. I want to hear what matters to you, not just during the legislative session, but throughout the year. I am a responsive person by nature. When my inbox is full, I have a hard time resting until I’ve addressed the concerns waiting for me. You deserve a representative who inquires, listens, responds, follows through, and keeps you informed.My academic background has taught me the value of research, clear communication, and listening to the people affected by decisions. I know how to seek input, ask questions, separate facts from opinions, and consider different perspectives before acting. As your representative, I will work hard to understand the issues before me and to hear from you. I will consistently and respectfully invite your input, remind you that your voice matters, ask for your thoughts, and respond to your concerns. I believe good representation requires both careful research and genuine communication, and I am committed to doing both.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

1. Democracy and ethical government. I care deeply about honest, ethical government and constructive peacemaking. My commitment led me to join Mormon Women for Ethical Government, where I’ve strengthened my desire to build understanding and find common ground.

2. Education: quality, equity, leadership, and funding. I value the research, dedication, and investment that have strengthened teacher preparation, and will continue to help our young people thrive.

3. Public lands, national parks, conservation, and sustainable resources. I believe Utah’s land and water resources should be responsibly governed here in Utah, through ethical negotiation, collaboration, and stewardship.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

I am a Democratic write-in candidate, endorsed by Utah County Democratic Party.