Alumnus Update: Erin Meteer '06

From Erin Meteer, PLS '06:

I finally graduated after being a super senior at GVSU with a major in Political Science and a minor in French. I graduated on April 29th, moved up to Traverse City on April 30th, and started my job on that Monday May 1st. I had zero time to unpack and get comfortable back at my parents pad… yes a college graduate living with mom and dad… it was painful. I began my journey as State Senator Jason Allen's Campaign Manager. I ran his campaign in 8 counties: Grand Traverse, Antrim, Charlevoix, Emmet, Cheboygan, Presque Isle, Mackinac and Chippewa. I started the campaign with a local paper who took every chance to attack my boss. He was running for Senate Majority Leader and re-election; having a Senator from northern Michigan would have been great asset for northern Michigan, but, the paper didn't see it like that, so that was challenge number one. Our opponent was no problem at all, she played a little dirty, and had absolutely no experience in holding a public office. We kept our noses clean and pressed on with a smile. I have never had a boss so willing to do the work himself. He would go door to door with me, and he would make phone calls to people who came into the office. He wrote thank you notes to everyone who helped him in anyway. He is probably the most generous, hard working and honorable man I know. I learned that dirty campaigning doesn't pay off; playing nice wins the heart of voters. After we won every county in our district (which wasn't pulled off in his first race) I was offered a job with him in his Lansing office. I mainly handled constituent calls and letters, which was fun when I could actually help people. I wrote my first (and only) resolution that was voted in by the Senate. I was able to meet a ton of great people (elected officials included). I learned a lot from my time in the Senate.

Recently I took a job with the Michigan Republican Party. I am the Major Donor Program Manager, which basically means that I plan events and raise money from our major donors. I was able to see Rudy Giuliani, have my photo taken with him, and help plan for the huge fundraiser benefiting State Party and HRCC. It was a successful dinner, and we had a great time. I am currently planning an event with special guest Governor John Engler and Lieutenant Governor Connie Binsfeld. I am learning that there is a lot of work that goes into planning events. It's hard work, but I love it.

On a non-political note, I have found a wonderful man who can put up with my crazy political life. He and I will be married summer of 2009. He works for the State Senate, has been involved in politics and is a graduate of Grand Valley. We look forward to spending the rest of our lives together and continuing our work in Republican politics.