Shawna Mozdzen Sworn in as Ward 1 School Trustee in Brandon

Shawna Mozdzen was officially sworn in as the new school trustee for Ward 1 at a special meeting of the Brandon School Division board of trustees on October 16, 2023. The ceremony marked the beginning of her tenure following a decisive victory in the recent byelection.

During the formal ceremony, Denis Labossiere, the secretary-treasurer of the board, administered the oath of office. Mozdzen raised her right hand and pledged to “faithfully perform her duties and uphold the trustee code of ethics.” This commitment is central to her role as a trustee within the educational community.

Mozdzen expressed enthusiasm about her new position, stating her eagerness to collaborate with her fellow board members. “I’d like to get started and just work as a board — bring everyone together at the same table and come to great decisions as a board,” she remarked after the ceremony.

Election Results and Priorities

In the October 16 byelection, Mozdzen garnered 2,229 votes, representing 56.7 percent of the total votes cast. She triumphed over six other candidates, including Henry Sieklicki, Laura Armitage, Michael Grantham, Bonnie-Lynn Mills, and Eren Oleson. A total of 3,929 votes were cast, with 596 of those from advance polls and sealed ballots, as reported by the senior election official.

Mozdzen’s campaign focused on fostering a supportive and inclusive school environment for students and families. “I intend to speak up for students and staff. Just have my voice heard and speak to what I believe in, like I always do, and just try to do everything that’s right for the students and staff,” she emphasized.

With her background as a school support and educational assistant, Mozdzen brings valuable experience to the board. Her commitment to addressing the needs of students and staff will play a crucial role in her initiatives as trustee.

As she embarks on this new chapter, Mozdzen’s leadership is poised to contribute positively to the Brandon School Division, with a focus on collaboration and advocacy for the educational community. Her election reflects a strong mandate from voters, underscoring the importance of engaging with the needs and concerns of local families.