Catherine Giessel is a lifelong Alaskan, born in Fairbanks before Statehood, and graduated from Lathrop High School in Fairbanks.  She has lived in Anchorage since 1974.  Catherine holds a BSN from University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and an MSN from the University of Alaska, Anchorage.  She is a licensed RN and APRN.  Cathy has been married to Richard for 47 years, has 3 children and 7 grandchildren.

Mrs. Giessel was a State Senator from 2011 – 2021 focusing on natural resource development, healthcare access and cost, and a state vaccine program for children.  Catherine now services on the board of directors for several healthcare, public policy, and economic development organizations.  She volunteers at Safe Families for Children Alaska, Alaska Health Fairs, and Christian Health Associates.