As many conservative Fresno Christian students lamented the loss of Republican presidential nominee John McCain, campus alumna Ashley Swearengin softened the blow by winning the Fresno mayoral race 55% to 45% against Henry T. Perea, Nov. 4.

Swearengin, ’90, participated in cheer and student leadership on campus and went on to study business at California State University, Fresno. She spoke at FC graduation on May 23.

Having grown up at in Christian environment and high school, Swearengin cites her faith as a major incentive to run for Fresno mayor.

“I’m running for mayor because of the heart of God for this city,” Swearengin said. “My belief in what God wants to do in this city and my race were connected.”

Swearengin aims to be involved in revitalizing Fresno County when she is sworn in Jan. 6.

“Poverty, unemployment, gangs and broken neighborhoods; God wants all these things to change,” Swearengin said. “I want to be involved and do what I can.”

For more information on Swearengin and the election, read Alumna fosters mayoral dreams or Mock election polls political opinion.