The Oxford Board of Education chose an educator to fill a vacancy created with a recent resignation.
Mary T. Stein, a professor at Oakland University, and mother of four Oxford High School graduates, was chosen over two other candidates to replace Major Murray, who resigned in June.
The term Stein was tabbed to fill will expire on December 31 so she would be required to run for election in November if she wants to retain the position. Stein said she intends to run for the seat.
The three finalists for the position were interviewed by the board on Monday night before the decision was made to appoint Stein. The other two finalists for the position were Bill Keenist and Daniel D’Alessandro.
Board members said any of the three would have been a great addition to the body but several said they chose Stein because she brings a different dimension and set of experiences to the group ? that of an educational background.
Stein is currently a professor at Oakland University teaching science and has a doctorate degree. She also has worked in the K-12 level teaching science.
‘This was an outstanding pool,? said Board president Colleen Schultz. ‘How lucky are we in this community? We can’t go wrong no matter who we select.?
In an initial polling of the board following the interviews, Schultz and board members Carol Mitchell, Doug Myer and Lee Barclay said they liked Stein because she is an educator and no other board member has a background in education.
Other board members Pam Phelps and Sue Tombrella said they supported Keenist because of his creativity and community involvement.
Keenist is the senior vice president of communications for the Detroit Lions. He is very active in numerous projects in the Oxford district and several board members said he would be a valuable addition to the body.
‘He would cast a different influence on so many things we do,? said Tombrella. ‘We need someone with a creative look at community involvement.?
All three candidates are very active in Oxford schools and any would be a good addition to the district, said board members.
D’Alessandro is the owner of D’Alessandro Consulting, a sales and marketing company.
During his interview he spoke of his commitment to the district, which including coaching baseball and other serving on the strategic planning committee.
Keenist spoke of his passion for the job.
‘It’s about an opportunity to help the students and the community. It’s an obligation and I am very passionate about it,? Keenist said.
Keenist said he follows a simple creed to just do the right thing.
‘If you believe you are doing the best for the students, then it’s the right decision,? he said.
Stein said she follows a simple creed to nurture body, mind and spirit and the district should offer a wide range of opportunities for students.
Following news of her appointment, Stein said she was excited.
‘I think I can contribute,? Stein said. ‘I will ask good questions before we move forward on issues.?
Stein said some of the board members know that she will speak out on issues.
‘They know I’m willing to be outspoken.?
But, Stein said, she will always focus on what is best for the students.