Cathy Giessel is a Republican state senator representing District E in Alaska, which includes areas such as Eagle River, East Anchorage, and surrounding regions like Girdwood and Seward. Born on November 9, 1951, in Fairbanks, Alaska, she is a lifelong resident and registered nurse with over 50 years of experience, including 24 years as an advanced nurse practitioner. Married to Richard for over 50 years, she has three adult children and at least seven grandchildren. She served in the Alaska State Senate from 2011-2020 , lost a 2020 primary, and returned in 2023 to present. Notable achievements include bipartisan leadership, focus on resource development, healthcare access, Arctic policy, and budget; she has received awards like Anchorage Republican Woman of the Year and Fellow of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.

Education and Political Experience

Education:

- Lathrop High School, Fairbanks

- Bachelor of Science in Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

- Master of Science in Nursing, University of Alaska Anchorage

Political Experience:

- Alaska State Senate, District E : 2011-2020 and 2023-present

- Senate President: 2019-2021

- Key committees: Labor & Commerce, State Affairs, Finance

- Caucuses: Joint In-State Gas, Outdoor Heritage, Anchorage

- National roles: American Legislative Exchange Council, National Council of State Legislators

- Legislation highlights: Resource development, healthcare costs/access, children with disabilities, addiction treatment, foster care