Meet Sharon

Early Years

Sharon MacDonell was born in Bethpage, New York. From an early age, she faced challenges head-on, such as an early Rheumatoid Arthritis diagnosis that taught her the perseverance that is an essential part of her character even today. 

Growing up in Michigan with three siblings and a divorced mom, she developed her talent for forging and encouraging teamwork. A proud graduate of Michigan's exemplary public school system, Sharon continued her education at the University of Michigan, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree.

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Deep Community Roots

Since graduation, Sharon has worked for several broadcasting and automotive firms in a wide variety of creative and problem-solving positions, including as a journalist, marketing professional and video producer. She is currently the Marketing and Video Manager at Lawrence Technological University. 

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While State House District 56 may be a new district, Sharon is a longtime resident, with nearly 30 years of insight into the strengths, needs, and ambitions of this diverse community. Her personal journey is a veritable tour of District 56, from meeting her husband in Royal Oak, marrying him and adopting two children while living in Clawson, to making Troy their current home in 2005.

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Becoming an Activist

It was her civic pride and respect for education that prompted Sharon to add "Community Activist" to her long list of accomplishments. When a partisan city council threatened to close the essential Troy Public Library, Sharon became a self-made grassroots organizer with her "Keep Troy Strong" blog. She united the city's citizens to fight to preserve the library and other public resources. After two years and three millage votes, the library was saved.

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Her movement to demand accountability from government officials and speak truth to authority continued in 2012. While an unprofessional and divisive mayor threatened the City of Troy's national image, Sharon was a leader in the successful effort to have that mayor recalled.

Later, after a city manager was caught embezzling funds and accused of abusive behavior, Sharon demanded transparency from city council members who had defended that manager. The manager was eventually arrested and sentenced to federal prison.

Leading from the front

Sharon already puts her time, effort, and persistence to work for the citizens of District 56. She co-founded Troy Indivisible. She was elected co-chair and chairperson of the Troy Democratic Club.

Sharon works hard each and every election to get the best candidates elected to the Troy City Council, the Michigan State House and Senate, as well as the U.S. Congress. Her efforts have been essential to turning Michigan blue. 

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Now, with your help – and on your behalf – Sharon is taking the fight to Lansing!