Why is rebecca running?
I believe in a future where hope drives progress and where MSU reflects the values of dignity, respect, and opportunity for all. I’m running to create a future where students aren’t burdened by crushing loan debt, where collaboration and civility are the standard for Trustees, administration, and all stakeholders. A future where student workers, faculty, and staff don’t have to fight for fair wages—they already have them. We will keep our campus safe, so no parent receives a heartbreaking message during a crisis. And MSU will recommit to its roots in community service, teaching students the power of giving back. This is my vision for MSU, and I humbly ask for your vote this November.
Rebecca's Bio
Rebecca Bahar-Cook, CEO of Capitol Fundraising Associates, brings extensive experience in fundraising and nonprofit management. She creates fundraising strategies, plans events, leads capital campaigns, designs solicitation materials, and trains others in donor development. Her work spans board development and volunteer recruitment, ensuring nonprofits succeed in their missions.
An MSU alumna and proud parent of two recent graduates, Rebecca is running for MSU Trustee to advocate for affordable tuition, maintain MSU’s research excellence, and promote community engagement among students. Her vision is to ensure MSU remains accessible to working-class families while preparing students to contribute to society.
Rebecca's career includes work with numerous nonprofits, including Children’s Trust Michigan, Equality Michigan, and Greater Lansing Food Bank. She has also consulted on significant political campaigns and events, including Senator Debbie Stabenow's campaign and the Whitmer Gilchrist Inaugural Committee. Her fundraising experience began in college, working for Congressman Bob Carr in both Michigan and Washington, D.C.
In addition to her professional work, Rebecca is deeply involved in her community. She chairs the Capitol Area Michigan Works! Workforce Development Board and serves on several other boards, including the Capital Regional Community Foundation. Rebecca lives in East Lansing with her husband, Todd.
Rebecca's Endorsements
- AFSCME
- AFT Michigan
- Erin and Hon. Andy Schor
- Governor Gretchen Whitmer
- Hon. Curtis Hertel
- Hon. Kara Hope
- Hon. Kerry Ebersole Singh and Hon. Sam Singh
- Hon. Kristen McDonald Rivet
- Hon. Larry Owen
- Hon. Penelope Tsernoglou
- Hon. Sarah Anthony
- Hon. Todd Tennis
- IBEW
- Janet and Hon. Jim Blanchard
- MEA
- Michigan AFL-CIO
- Michigan Democratic Party
- Planned Parenthood of Michigan
- SEIU
- Teamsters
- The Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and Millwrights
- UAW
- UFCW Local 951
- Unity State
