SPOTLIGHT RACE: Vanessa Vaughn West for KD-HD39

I'm a mom who is concerned about funding for our public schools, support for our teachers, achievement gaps for black and brown students, and resources for special needs students

I am the wife of a startup entrepreneur who understands the daily grind, sacrifice, drive and resiliency it takes to build a successful business in Kansas, as well as the need for additional fiscal and financial incentives to support small business owners

I am a budget conscious working parent who wants to see Kansas grocery prices drop due to the complete and immediate elimination of the state grocery tax.

I’m a Shawnee resident who walks where she can because I enjoy the beauty of our green spaces and meeting neighbors while reducing drive miles and emissions.

I am a concerned and engaged citizen who believes in the importance of prioritizing mental health and physical well-being, including supporting suicide prevention, violent crime reduction, and organizations that improve healthcare access and community safety.

I am a professional inclusion and belonging advocate and strategist who is passionate about elevating voices of underrepresented people. I am fueled by a commitment to human and civil rights and to fostering inclusive communities where everyone has a voice and knows they are welcome.

I am an experienced local government manager who cares deeply about removing barriers to economic resiliency, home ownership, and fully funding government employee retirement.

I’m a world traveler who loves getting to know the diverse people and cultures that add to the richness of the world. I enjoy dancing, all things musical theater and have been known to get trapped in the glorious Instagram rabbit hole of gourmet artisan cakes and cookies.





https://www.vanessaforkansas.com/