From collection Member List
Dayna Lynn Polehanki (Beta 1991/Central Michigan) grew up in Flushing, Michigan, and went on to attend Central Michigan University, where she received her bachelor’s degree in psychology. She joined Alpha Sigma Tau during her time there and was initiated into Beta Chapter in 1991. After six years working in California, Dayna returned to Michigan and decided to become a teacher, studying at Alma College. Later, she earned her master’s degree in teaching from Marygrove College.
Dayna proceeded to teach for nearly 18 years, then opened Detroit Casting Agency. After the 2016 election and having seen how decades of insufficient funding had impacted education in Michigan, Dayna decided to run for office. She successfully campaigned to win a state Senate race and has spent her time in office as an advocate for teachers, students, parents, and public schools. She was re-elected for a second term in 2022.
Many honors and awards recognize Dayna’s excellence in her career. Among other awards, she is a two-time winner of the "Teacher of the Year" at New Haven Community Schools; she also won the 2022 Distinguished Government Service Award from the Ohio-Michigan Association of Career Colleges and Schools. She currently serves as the Majority Caucus Chair for the Michigan Senate Democrats and has served on several committees during her political career.
When not promoting education in the Michigan Senate, Dayna devotes her time to her husband, Jim, and their dog and horse. She also loves to spend time with her three adult step-children and her three nieces.
Dayna proceeded to teach for nearly 18 years, then opened Detroit Casting Agency. After the 2016 election and having seen how decades of insufficient funding had impacted education in Michigan, Dayna decided to run for office. She successfully campaigned to win a state Senate race and has spent her time in office as an advocate for teachers, students, parents, and public schools. She was re-elected for a second term in 2022.
Many honors and awards recognize Dayna’s excellence in her career. Among other awards, she is a two-time winner of the "Teacher of the Year" at New Haven Community Schools; she also won the 2022 Distinguished Government Service Award from the Ohio-Michigan Association of Career Colleges and Schools. She currently serves as the Majority Caucus Chair for the Michigan Senate Democrats and has served on several committees during her political career.
When not promoting education in the Michigan Senate, Dayna devotes her time to her husband, Jim, and their dog and horse. She also loves to spend time with her three adult step-children and her three nieces.
