ESCANABA — Terri Mileski says she likes that Bay College is focused on the phrase “education with a purpose.” After being appointed to the Board of Trustees in January, Mileski is running for re-election to a six-year-term.

Instead of developing programs for the college, Mileski says everything they do is focused on the needs of the students and business.

“They’re really listening to kids. They’re listen to business and industry. What are the needs? Because if you want our young people to stay here they have to be able to have better paying jobs, they have to be able to have the access to training and if they don’t have that then they don’t have a choice,” Mileski said.

A retired school superintendent, Mileski says she understands the needs of the K-12 educational system. Something she hopes is beneficial to the college as it works on developing dual enrollment and early middle college programs.

“I knew I still want to contribute because I think education is hugely important not just for the students but for the community. So, when this opportunity came along I was very appreciative because it allows me to be supportive, be involved but not necessarily be at the helm. I like being in the supportive role,” said Mileski.

Mileski is running for one of two positions on the board of trustees among four candidates.