Jacksonville businesswoman Katie Exum earlier this week launched her candidacy to seek the Republican nomination for the Alabama House of Representatives, District 40.
Exum is the owner of outdoor recreational magazine, “Alabama Trails Magazine,” which has been widely recognized and featured across the state.
The candidate holds an undergraduate degree in English, an elementary education certification from Troy State University-Dothan and a paralegal certificate from Jacksonville State University. She is currently seeking a law degree from the Birmingham School of Law.
In announcing her candidacy, Exum indicated that workforce development would be a top priority as a legislator.
“As a wife, mother, and woman business owner, I am very excited about Alabama’s future and the future of District 40,” she declared. “As your Representative, I will work very hard to develop our district into a district that is ready for the technological advances that our workforce will demand. By building a Workforce Development Center, we can ensure that all of District 40 citizens will have the skills and training for immediate employment in the fast-paced, technological trades of the next generation.”
Exum’s community and organizational involvement includes the American Agriculture Law Association, Rotary International, Christian Legal Society, Federalist Society, The Exchange Club of Jacksonville, Veteran’s Help Desk, YMCA, Junior League of Anniston, Girl Scouts of America, and the Calhoun and Cleburne County Chamber of Commerce.
“Combining new advances from all trades with science and engineering will help build a successful workforce with industry partners, manufacturing and industrial development, and substantially increase our district’s appeal for large employers. Education is very important to me,” she added.
“As a former public school teacher in Alabama, I understand how to make schools successful. Helping our schools set and reach benchmark goals for students in order to receive Blue Ribbon Excellence in Schools will raise our children’s opportunities for continued advancement in pursuing their dreams,” advised Exum. “Reading, Math, and Science are critical to the future opportunities for our students.”
In addition to supporting issues related to education and workforce development, Exum’s campaign noted that she would also seek to address law enforcement funding needs, as well as the expansion of health care options for veterans.
District 40 encompasses Calhoun and Cleburne Counties. The primary election is slated to occur on May 24, 2022.
Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL
