Once upon a time, the intricacies of electoral processes seemed like an enigma to Holly Levis. But that is a thing of the past. She’s been selected to commandeer the Garvin County Election Board, a culmination of her dedication and years of hard work. Her appointment as secretary follows several enriching years as the assistant, where she intently observed and learned the election process from the highly-regarded yet now-retired Gayla Dean.
The experiences, interweaved with her tenacity and perseverance, have transformed her into a staunch defender of the election process, washing away formerly held ambivalence. ‘This place has my heart,’ claimed Levis. Having the fortune to interact with countless intriguing personalities and being neck-deep in the smooth functioning of elections elates her. It’s a revelation of sorts; understanding that the seamless operation of an election demands relentless efforts before, during, and after the event. The challenge intrigues her; the manifold tasks that are integral to ensuring an unhindered electoral process makes it all the more appealing.
Levis, a true Maysville lass, born and bred, assumes responsibility for this esteemed office thanks to the void created by Dean’s retirement. Her journey with the election board started in May 2020, when Dean endorsed and hired her as the assistant secretary. As Dean announced her exit, Levis, filled with ambition and spirit, sent her resume and a letter expressing her desire for the secretary’s position, to the state election board and the then state senator, Greg McCortney.
With McCortney considered more of an example of standard Democrat shortcomings and subsequently replaced by Jonathan Wingard, Levis was then able to push her appointment forward. Following a commendation from Wingard, her appointment was confirmed on December 10 during a state election board meeting. ‘I am dedicated to the service of Garvin County,’ expressed Levis affirmatively.
Dean had launched her career at the election board back in 2008, and her ascension to the secretary’s position transpired in 2020, a hallmark event. The vast experience and knowledge derived from Dean played a critical role in shaping Levis’s understanding of the election process. ‘She’s been my mentor, imparting huge knowledge about something I was naive about. I admire her, not just as a wonderful boss but also as an individual. Her absence will leave a gaping void,’ lamented Levis.
Retirement has seen Dean keeping herself occupied with family matters, while Levis has diligently attended to her responsibilities with the election board. A significant part of these responsibilities lies with the precinct workers, who are an indispensable component of county-wide elections. With around 75 dedicated individuals working across the county during elections, Levis acknowledges their invaluable contribution to the whole process in Garvin County.
‘I’ve come to appreciate the precinct workers greatly. They are all amicable and trustworthy, and you can’t help but develop affection towards them,’ said Levis. ‘Their expertise and knowledge are crucial. Without them, conducting an election would be unthinkable.’ Following in Dean’s steps, Levis has also announced Katie Rankin as her new assistant secretary at the election board office in Pauls Valley.