IN THE PUBLIC EYE: Donna Hayes

Home: Bradenton

Education: Chartered Underwriter (CLU) designation, Juniata College, the University of Pittsburgh and The American College

Hayes also holds the Life Underwriters Training Council Fellowship and Certified Senior Advisor designation.

A native of North Hills, Pa., a suburb of Pittsburgh, Hayes moved to Florida in 1976 and eventually settled in Manatee County in 1980. Upon moving to Florida, Hayes founded her own insurance agency, Hayes Gailey Insurance Inc. After nearly 35 years, the business is still up and running with Hayes serving as the president and general agent.

An avid Republican since the age of 21, Hayes joined the Republican Club of Manatee County in 1983 and began serving as the chairman of the Republican Party’s executive committee in 1994 — a position she held for 10 years. Most recently, Hayes became involved in the East Manatee Republican Committee, serving as the president and co-founder of the East Manatee Republican Committee, and the Lakewood Ranch Republican Club.

But it wasn’t until 2004 when former Manatee County District 5 Commissioner Jonathan Bruce decided not to run for re-election that Hayes’ name was first cast into the political arena. Hayes was elected to the board in 2004 and was re-elected again in 2008.

During her tenure, Hayes served as chairman of the board in 2010, the second vice chairman in 2006 and 2009, the third vice chairman in 2005, 2007 and 2008.

In 2004, Hayes also organized the District 5 Advisory Committee, which meets quarterly to discuss East County issues, concerns and the plans, initiatives and goals for the county. Hayes also serves on the Port Manatee Authority board and is a member of the Manatee County Civic Center Authority and the Metropolitan Planning Organization.

When she’s not hard at work, Hayes can be found serving on the Hospitality Ministry for Our Lady of Angels Catholic Church, reading a good book, going to the movies and going on Princess cruises. Hayes also enjoys spending time with her son, daughter, stepson and four grandchildren.

In June, Hayes dropped her bid for re-election in 2012 to spend more time wither her family, travel and play golf.