Sharon Cissna

Sharon Cissna is a former American politician who served as a member of the Alaska House of Representatives, representing the 21st District. A member of the Democratic Party, Cissna's legislative career spanned from 1999 to 2013, during which she was involved in various committees and focused on issues pertinent to her constituents. Her background includes a diverse professional history in counseling and community service, as well as a commitment to education and local governance.

Early life and career

Sharon Marie Cissna was born on April 5, 1942, in Seattle, Washington. She completed her secondary education at Federal Way High School, graduating in 1960. Following high school, Cissna pursued further education at Knapp Business College, where she studied until 1962, and later attended the University of Washington until 1964. In 1967, she relocated to Alaska, where she has resided since, establishing deep roots in the community.

Cissna continued her education in Alaska, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Alaska-Anchorage in 1972. She furthered her academic credentials by obtaining a master's degree from Alaska Pacific University in 1992. In addition to her formal education, she completed community emergency response training in 1999, reflecting her commitment to community safety and preparedness.

Professionally, Cissna has been the Owner/Operator of PS Publication Services since 1972, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit. Her early career included a role as a legislative aide for the Alaska House of Representatives during the 1970s, which provided her with valuable insights into the legislative process. In the early 1990s, she worked as a counselor at South Central Foundation Traditional Healing from 1991 to 1992, and later served as a Supervisor at Family Treatment Homes from 1993 to 1994. From 1994 to 1998, she was involved in mental health counseling, operating SOLUTIONS, a family and individual counseling service, and also worked as a Home Based Mental Health Counselor at Hope Cottages during the same period. Cissna's community engagement extended to local governance, where she served as Chairwoman of the Airport Heights Community Council from 1997 to 1999.

Legislative service

Cissna's political career began with her first candidacy for the Alaska House of Representatives in 1996, where she narrowly lost in the primary election to former state representative Ann Spohnholz. Undeterred, she ran again in 1998, successfully winning the primary with a notable percentage of the vote. In the general election, she defeated the incumbent Republican state representative Joe Ryan, marking the beginning of her legislative tenure.

Throughout her time in the Alaska House of Representatives, Cissna was re-elected multiple times, demonstrating her ability to connect with voters and address their concerns. After redistricting in 2002, she transitioned to represent the newly established 22nd District, where she continued to secure re-election. Her electoral successes included significant margins, with one election resulting in a particularly high percentage of the vote.

During her legislative service, Cissna was appointed to several key committees, including the House Committee on Community and Regional Affairs, the House Committee on Education, the House Committee on Health and Social Services, and the House Committee on Military & Veterans' Affairs. These assignments allowed her to influence a range of policy areas, from education and health care to community development and veteran affairs.

Cissna's tenure in the legislature was marked by a notable incident in 2010 when she became a public figure in discussions surrounding Transportation Security Administration (TSA) procedures. After experiencing a humiliating screening process at the Seattle Airport due to her medical condition as a cancer survivor, she publicly criticized the TSA's methods. This incident garnered national attention and highlighted issues related to airport security protocols.

In 2012, Cissna announced her candidacy for a seat in the United States House of Representatives, aiming to challenge long-serving Republican Congressman Don Young. Her campaign focused on issues such as the TSA's treatment of passengers, particularly those with medical conditions. Although she won her primary election with a significant portion of the Democratic vote, she ultimately lost the general election to Young.

Policy focus and district

During her time in the Alaska House of Representatives, Cissna focused on a variety of policy areas that were important to her constituents. Her committee assignments reflect her commitment to community issues, education, health care, and veteran affairs. As a member of the House Committee on Education, she was involved in discussions and initiatives aimed at improving educational outcomes for students in Alaska. Her role on the Committee on Health and Social Services allowed her to address critical health care issues, particularly those affecting vulnerable populations.

Cissna's district, the 21st District, encompassed a diverse community with a range of needs and interests. Her background in counseling and mental health likely informed her approach to social services and community health initiatives. She advocated for policies that supported families and individuals, drawing on her professional experience in mental health and community service.

Cissna's engagement with her constituents extended beyond legislative duties. Her leadership roles in local organizations and community councils demonstrated her commitment to grassroots advocacy and community involvement. This local engagement was crucial in building trust and rapport with voters, contributing to her electoral successes.

In summary, Sharon Cissna's career as a state legislator in Alaska is characterized by her dedication to public service, her focus on education and health care, and her active participation in community governance. Her experiences as a counselor and community leader shaped her legislative priorities and her approach to representing the interests of her constituents.