About the Candidate
Meet Angela Chidester
A Milan neighbor, a public school parent, and a community advocate
Her Background
My Story
I have lived in Milan with my family since 2009. I have two children in the school district, 18-year-old Anson who just graduated from High School, and 15-year-old Julian who just graduated from the Middle School. My experiences with the school district have been mostly in volunteering and participation in my children’s classrooms. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Biology from Heidelberg College in Tiffin, Ohio. I pursued a PhD in Cellular and Molecular Biology at MSU before ultimately deciding on a career at the Advanced Genomics Core at the University of Michigan. I have been there now for 21 years. I am fortunate to have some teaching experience to give me the benefit of that perspective. I taught Laboratory courses in Biology at my alma mater for a time.
I have been a leader with Milan Cub Scout Pack #3491 since 2014, and Milan Boy Scout Troop #0449 since 2021. At various times I have been Den Leader, Committee Member, Cub Master, Fundraising Chair, Advancement Chair, Membership and Recruitment Chair, and District Fundraising Chair for Southeast Michigan. Each position has given me experience and skills in effectively running a group, serving youth, organizing effective leadership, developing a vision for success, and being a model leader. I have invested myself in training and leadership at all levels. I was awarded the District Award of Merit in 2018. I was awarded Wood Badge certification by Scouts BSA in December 2022, which is an advanced national leadership course that has been a model training course adopted by Fortune 500 companies.
I’m newly elected to the Greater Milan Area Community Foundation (GMACF) Board of Trustees. Through endowment funds managed by GMACF in partnership with the Community Foundation of Monroe County, the Foundation is able to support organizations such as the Historical Society, Aid in Milan, and the Library. I’m running for the board because I have a passion for and desire to serve my community. Milan Area Schools has always had my love and support. At this time, I feel a draw to step up and offer what I can to give back. The school board deserves a candidate to fill a role that will be difficult at times. I am up for the challenge of serving the students, the families, the staff, the board, and the Superintendent.
Rooted in Milan
Community Involvement
Milan Cub Scout Leader
2014 – PresentActive Leader and lover of all things Scouts!
Milan Boy Scout Troop Leader
2021 – PresentProud mother of an Eagle Scout who did his project at Aid in Milan. My youngest son has just earned his First Class Rank.
Greater Milan Area Community Foundation Trustee
2026Newly elected after having helped with the Gala for a few years. It has been amazing to have been brought on board to such a great organization that has such an impact in our community.
American Legion Auxiliary Member
2023 – PresentProud member, focused mainly on the connection between the Legion and the Scouts, because the Legion is the Charter Organization of both Scout groups in town. Fostering a good relationship is a great way to bring together everyone and find opportunities to serve the community.
Core Values
What Drives Me
Every Child Deserves Excellence
Not just the kids in the advanced track. Not just the kids whose parents can advocate loudly. Every single child in this district deserves a great education.
Parents Belong at the Table
The school board is a bridge between the community and the administration — not a wall. I'll always listen before deciding.
Accountability Matters
Public money demands public accountability. I'm open for honest conversations about what's working and what isn't.
Community Support
Key Endorsements
"Proud to support Angela Chidester for Milan School Board."
Tom Faro
Milan School Board
"Proud to endorse Angela Chidester for Milan School Board. This individual shows character, compassion and a dedication to civic engagement. Support Angela Chidester by visiting their website, liking and following their Facebook pages, sharing their posts, and putting a sign in your front yard."
Cassie Prior
Milan School Board
Ready to Help?
Whether you want to donate, request a yard sign, or just spread the word — every bit of support makes a difference.