Recently appointed Iowa Lt. Gov. Chris Cournoyer is all set to take on the leadership role alongside Gov. Kim Reynolds. Reynolds made this appointment on Monday, just over three months after former Lt. Gov. Adam Gregg resigned. This marks a significant step in the state's governance.

A Mother, a Business Leader, and a School Safety Advocate

Background and Family

Cournoyer is a mother of four children and a fifth-generation Iowan from LeClaire in eastern Iowa. Her family background plays an important role in her life and her approach to leadership.She has deep roots in the state and brings a unique perspective to her new role. Her children being in the K-12 system gives her a firsthand understanding of the educational needs and challenges faced by families.

Senate Service and Policy Insights

Cournoyer began serving in the Iowa Senate in 2019. Since then, she has been highly supportive of the governor's agenda. Her school board background has allowed her to bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the legislative process.She has been involved in many education bills and has made significant contributions to the state's policies. Her technology background and business experience also add value to her work in the Senate, enabling her to approach issues from a multi-faceted perspective.

Passion for School Safety

Cournoyer's interest in politics was sparked in 2012 by the Sandy Hook shooting. This tragic event shaped her passion for school safety and has been an ongoing priority for her.Since then, the school safety landscape has evolved significantly. She has been actively involved in initiatives such as adding School Resource Officers (SROs), improving mental health support, and anti-bullying programs. These efforts are crucial in ensuring that children feel safe at school and can focus on learning.

Future Priorities and Teamwork

Reynolds has identified energy, infrastructure, and maternal health as some of the big priorities for 2025. Cournoyer, with her diverse background and skills, is expected to play a crucial role in furthering these priorities.Reynolds emphasizes Cournoyer's ability to get things done. As a business owner with experience in both the private and state sectors, she is a dynamic and competitive team member. Together, they are committed to making a positive impact and leaving the state in a better condition.Reynolds is also working with Senate leadership to call a special election to replace Cournoyer's Senate seat. The details of the election are yet to be finalized, but it is an important step in the state's political process.In conclusion, Chris Cournoyer's appointment as Iowa Lt. Gov. brings a unique set of skills and experiences to the role. Her dedication to school safety, her work in the Senate, and her potential to contribute to the state's future priorities make her a valuable asset to the team.