SPOTLIGHT RACE: Janelle Calhoun for MN-HD36A

I’m Janelle Calhoun, and I’m running to represent Lino Lakes, Circle Pines, Centerville, North Oaks and White Bear Township in the Minnesota House of Representatives. I’m the former executive director of a cancer research non-profit, an advocate for protecting our natural resources, and a supporter of high quality education. I believe in using common sense for the common good.

I was born and raised in Roseville, where both of my parents worked as hospital pharmacists, and I graduated from Roseville Area High School and obtained a degree in Conflict Resolution Through Mediation at St. Olaf.

My professional career has taken me through multiple industries, but always with the common thread of serving others. I trained flight attendants to ensure safe and comfortable flights for travelers. Then I followed my parents’ footsteps into the healthcare industry, working for a pharmaceuticals company specializing in mental health and neurology drugs to improve the lives of patients. Later, as a licensed investment advisor at Thrivent Financial, I taught financial literacy, earning the Sweet Success Award for outstanding service by the YWCA.
But I found my true passion through grief.

Twenty-five years ago, one of my best friends was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer and started a foundation to raise awareness and fund research into it. I later became the executive director of the foundation, growing its size and impact every year, even through the pandemic.
My husband and I (and our two dogs) have called Lino Lakes home for the past seven years. We enjoy outdoor activities, including rock climbing, and chose Lino Lakes for its abundant natural beauty.

I am an environmentalist who supports clean energy initiatives and the protection of natural resources, especially clean water. I’m a fervent supporter of women’s reproductive rights and LGBTQ+ rights, believing in equality for all citizens. And I believe in providing a high-quality education to all students. With your support, I will bring my enthusiasm and dedication to the House of Representatives.





https://www.janellecalhoun.com/