Civics Week kicks off its second event with a few words of guidance from a local politician
Cameron Cyprain Staff Writer
On May 13th, students shared an insightful pizza luncheon with Lakewood Deputy Mayor Don Anderson. The mayor made his appearance as part of this year’s Civics Week, which is a five-day long series of events meant to promote good citizenship and public service arranged and hosted by Student Life.
In his speech, Anderson emphasized the sentiment that being selfless by allocating a little of one’s time and effort can lead to significant payoffs. “Be selfish,” he began, “Get involved in your community. You can contribute and do for others, and this will come to benefit you in the end.”
Anderson spoke from years of experience to support the sentiment. At the age of 18, Anderson went up for election as President of the Puyallup School District Board. To his surprise, the state approved him for the position, making him the youngest individual to be elected at the state level to date.
He has served as Board President of Tacoma Goodwill Industries as well as a Board Member of Rotary Club #8. Having served for six years, he is also credited with holding the longest tenure on the Lakewood City Council. Anderson is also a Navy veteran with three years served as a JAG officer from 1978 to 1981.
Despite years of valuable experience and an education that could afford him much higher paying jobs, Anderson asserted his stance that “It’s not like viewing things in terms of black and white, or mono and stereo. The experience much more rich and insightful. that’s what it’s like to volunteer for your community. ”
Aside from his involvement in the public arena, Anderson has been closely involved with various private enterprise ventures and was a business major while studying at the University of Puget Sound.
“I’ve always held the position that one should draw on experiences they gain in the private sector. That’s how you can utilize the more effective tools of leadership.”
Through the many connections he has made while remaining active in his community, Anderson garnered a reputation that earned him a unanimous Lakewood City Council vote to place him in his current position.
Students had the opportunity to ask Mayor Anderson about his time in office and how he felt his experiences could be used as an example. When asked what was his favorite part about being mayor, Anderson responded, “Being involved with people. I do value getting all the small things done rather than the big one’s.”
