DebraLee Hovey

She was elected to her fifth term in November 2010. Rep. Hovey is employed as an educational consultant, balancing her practice with public office. Recognizing her leadership qualities and record of achievements, House Minority Leader Lawrence F. Cafero, R-142nd District, appointed Rep. Hovey as an Assistant Minority Leader for the 2009-10 and 2011-12 legislative sessions. Representative Hovey, who was born in Houlton , Maine, was active in politics and civic groups in the state for several years. She was the vice chairperson and chief negotiator for the Freeport School Board and a member of the Board of Directors of the Preble Street Resource Center for the Homeless. She also was active with the Junior League of Portland, Maine and Junior League of Fairfield County. Rep. Hovey, an accomplished equestrian, is married to Paul J. Balsano, a Bridgeport firefighter. They have a blended family with her son Christopher, and his daughters Ashley and Jessica. MS, Exceptionality, Concentration in Gifted Child Education and Education of the Learning Disabled, University of Southern Maine, 1988 BS, Education of the Learning Disabled/K-12 & Elementary Education, K-8, University of Maine, 1976