I’m running for Kent City Council because our city deserves leadership that listens, shows up, and gets things done. As a small business owner, therapist, and school board director, and College Professor, I’ve spent years working directly with the people most impacted by local decisions. I’m committed to building a Kent that is safe, affordable, and inclusive for everyone who calls it home.

The future of our city is facing uncertainty with on going job losses, recession, budget cuts, and abrupt federal policy enactments. Now is the time to elect someone with experience in running and sustaining a business, writing and understanding policy, and a practicing clinician who has worked alongside law enforcement and emergency responders to guide us towards sustainable practices. The citizens of Kent should not be a testing ground for candidates to test their theories, passions, and ideas. These are our lives and well being that are impacted.

Puget Sound Business Journal

Andy was named one of 2024’s 40 under 40

an annual awards program by the Puget Sound Business Journal (PSBJ) that recognizes and celebrates 40 young leaders under the age of 40 who are making a significant impact in their industries, communities, and organizations. This program highlights rising stars in the Seattle business world, showcasing their accomplishments, contributions, and leadership qualities. “

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Work History

1. Professor of Human Services and Social Sciences at Tacoma Community College and Colorado State University (online bachelors program)
2. Small Business Owner
3. Current Elected Kent School Board Director
4. Mental Health Therapist/Board Certified Behavior Analyst
Prior Work History:
1. Emergency Department Mental Health Evaluator at Seattle Children’s Hospital
2. Design team for developing the Seattle Children’s Hospital Inpatient Psychiatric BioBehavioral Unit
3. Appointed by former Governor Jay Inslee to serve on his advisory team for Disabilities and Employment related issues
4. Seattle Police Department – Victim Support Team

Accomplishments

What has he done?

1. 40 under 40 2024′ (puget sound business journal)
2. 2022 Champion for Children Recipient (First5Fundamentals)
3. Current Elected School Board Director (Kent)
4. Small business owner
5. Kids Mental Health WA Contributor (Mary Bridge Childrens Hospital)
6. Governors Committee on Disability Issues and Employment 2019-2022 (appointed by former Governor Jay Inslee)
7. National School Board Member 2022-2023 (School Board Partners)

Political

Endorsements

Dave Upthegrove – Public Lands Commissioner & previous King County Council member
Rep. My-Linh Thai – WA State Representative of 41st Legislative District
11th Legislative District Democrats
Donald Cook – Kent School Board Director
Joe Cimaomo – Covington City Council
Sun Burford- New Castle City Council
Sam Mendez – Burien City Council Candidate
Tim Martin – President of Kent Education Association (Teachers Union)
Dr. Laura Marie Rivera – Seattle School Board Candidate

Local and Personal

Endorsements

George McGuire – CEO/Founder Create Fitness Gym
Ashley Mangum, MSW, LICSW – Director Kids Mental Health-WA Multicare
Claudia Miller – FPS School District & Amara Board Board Member
Mila Paige – Global Visionaries

Goal 1: Improve local and Small Business Policies

Entrust your decision on a leader who has started, operated, and expanded a local small business. I strongly believe we need industry experienced people to prioritize the talents of our community because small businesses sustain and improve our local economies

Goal 2: health and public safety policies

I am committed to strengthening Kent’s health and safety systems by bringing a global public health perspective that supports emergency preparedness, law enforcement, mental health workers, and culturally responsive care. As a mental health professional and a college professor on human services, I have the first hand experience and education to direct the conversations in the right decisions

Goal 3: planning for the future of Kent

I will prioritize thoughtful, inclusive development that preserves what makes Kent unique while planning for sustainable housing, transportation, and infrastructure that meets the needs of future generations.

Lets Connect!