I met Bonny Specker 24 years ago when she was the newly endowed chair establishing the EA Martin Program in Human Nutrition at SDSU. She had received a $1 million grant award to study bone development in children and was interviewing for a research assistant. I took the position, never knowing the impact working with Bonny would have on my life!

As my mentor, Bonny encouraged me to take classes in statistics and research design. This led to her becoming my adviser as I completed my Ph.D. Over the years, I’ve watched Specker mentor and advise numerous students, taking the time out of her demanding schedule to ensure her students succeeded.

As my colleague, we’ve worked together over 20 years at SDSU, traveling to national and international scientific meetings presenting our work. Dr. Specker is well known in the bone research world. Bonny introduced me to world-renowned scientists who wanted to get her advice as they discussed their research findings.

As my friend, Bonny and I have gone through graduations, weddings, and now “grandmotherhood” together. Bonny was there for me and my husband Mark as I went through the challenges of my treatment for leukemia and stem cell transplant  – celebrating with us on the good days and reassuring us on the bad days.

You may have noticed our campaign signs side-by-side in yards around town, and now you know why! Bonny has been my mentor, my colleague, and most importantly my friend. I’m proud to stand with Bonny for Brookings and encourage you to vote for Bonny Specker for Brookings City Council.