The Dowagiac Union Schools’ Board of Education swore in Beth Davis Monday night to fill the vacant seat that became available after former board president Larry Seurynck resigned.

During the regular meeting of the board, Davis, an employee with the Cass County Sheriff’s office, took the oath to serve a two-year term for the district. Secretary Stacy Leversen and Trustee Julia Smith made and seconded the motion, having both served on the interview committee. President Michelle Helmuth-Charles said the board was glad to welcome Davis.

“She is an excellent candidate and she will be a great addition,” Helmuth-Charles said. “She’ll offer a new set of eyes on the board.”

Davis has a son who is currently a freshman at Dowagiac Union High School. After spending years discussing changes she’d like to see, she said it was time to apply.

“There has been so many times where myself and others talked about things we’d like to see happen in the district,” Davis said. “I thought it was time to step up.”

Davis said she hopes to gain knowledge from her position on the board throughout the next two years.

“I’m looking forward to sitting in and learning from meetings,” Davis said. “I’d just like to try and make a difference.”

The next Dowagiac Union Schools board meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 15.