Candidate for
Council Member; City of Torrance

Susan's Story --

I was born in Boston, the second oldest of nine children and became a Torrance resident in August 1961 when my father changed his job, moved West, and bought a home in North Torrance. With nine children to educate, my parents put a great emphasis on each one of us striving to reach our full potential, whatever that might be, and insisted that homework came first. I received a scholarship to Marymount High School in Palos Verdes, and gave the valedictory address at graduation four years later. A California State Scholarship and federal student loan put me through college. The first two years were at Marymount College in Palos Verdes. Junior Year was spent in Paris, France, studying at l'Institut Catholique before returning to finish my bachelor's degree at Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles.

While still in college, I responded to an ad for a Civil Service Exam being given by the City of Torrance for the position of Policewoman, and less than five months later I was wearing a police uniform and beginning what would be over three decades of public service in Torrance. When I retired from the Torrance Police Department in August of 2002, I had achieved the rank of Captain. During my tenure I had also been elected to the Torrance Police Officers Association (TPOA) Board of Directors, serving eight years, including terms as President and Vice President.

While with the Department I earned my Masters in Management from Cal Poly Pomona, and had the privilege of attending the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia.

Those years with the Torrance Police Department gave me routine exposure to the politics and administrative realities of the City, including the budget process. They were wonderful years of service, opened my eyes to the strengths and weaknesses of people, and gave me the opportunity to experience the joys of making a small difference in an individual's life. I particularly enjoyed participating in the annual TPOA Santa Float! Since my retirement I have continued my community involvement by serving on the Salvation Army Advisory Board, Torrance Library Foundation, Torrance Symphony Board, ExxonMobil Citizen Advisory Panel, and the Torrance Airport Commission. I also served five years on the Torrance Windemere Homeowners Assn Board, including three years as Treasurer, and was Secretary for the Torrance Police Retirees Assn. for two years.

I see our city at a crucial point. I'm motivated to run for office in order to help ensure that the quality of life in Torrance which we all treasure is protected for future generations.