Candidates Vie for Two Board of Education Seats

The school district is governed by a seven-member Board of Education elected by the eligible voters of the district. Members are volunteer public officials who serve without pay. As elected representatives of district residents, and as officers of the state of New York, board members must carry out duties required by the state Legislature, the Board of Regents, and the state Commissioner of Education. The board establishes policies for the operation of the district. This year, eligible voters in Rush-Henrietta will elect two candidates to the Board of Education. This information is provided by each candidate. A random drawing determined the ballot order of the candidates.


Suzanne Bennett

Name: Suzanne Bennett

Address: 199 Peakview Drive, Henrietta, NY 14467

Resident of the District: 21 years

Family: Spouse, Russell Bennett, and children, Erin Bennett, 23; Shannon Bennett, 20

Education: Alfred University, B.A., Biology; Nazareth Academy High School, Regents Diploma

Employment: Director of Recreation, Town of Rush Afterschool Program
Honors/Activities: Recipient of Assemblymember Harry Bronson’s 2025 Women of Distinction Award; Rush-Henrietta Board of Education Liaison to Winslow PTO, Burger Parent Group, R-H Sports Boosters, and Henrietta Youth Asset Team; Girl Scout leader, 13 years; Sunday School teacher at St. Marianne Cope Parish, seven years; adult leader for St. Marianne Cope Parish’s RHYM youth group, seven years.

Statement: For 20 years, I have nurtured and taught kids. My own children and others have been part of my home, employment, and volunteer activities. I offered nighttime child care in my home because a family needed it. I worked Child Watch at the YMCA, then moved to teaching preschool when children needed me home. At church, I taught first grade, then transitioned to youth group. I led a Girl Scout Troop for 13 years. Currently, I run an afterschool program. I interact with Rush-Henrietta students, families, and employees daily. I care deeply for them. Three years ago, R-H was in flux from COVID and needed a new superintendent. I wanted to help and was honored to be elected. With Dr. Mullen and Vision 2037, R-H is positioned to grow greater. I ask for your vote to the Board of Education to continue to serve this community.

Mai Abdullah

Name: Mai Abdullah

Address: 83 Churchview Lane, Pittsford, NY 14534

Resident of the District: 27 years

Family: Spouse, Mohamed Mekkielamin; Children, Danya, 24; Zeena, 19; and Amin, 17

Education: M.S., Environmental Health and Safety Management, Rochester Institute of Technology

Employment: Refugees Helping Refugees, Executive Director

Honors/Activities: Graduate of the Parent Leadership Training Institute; Leadership Rochester; YWCA Equity Through Development Program; Ed Trust NY Parent Lab; School Board Partners Fellow

Statement: I’m running for re-election to the board because I remain deeply committed to our students, families, and the longterm success of our district. I’ve proudly served as a board member for six-plus years, bringing a thoughtful, compassionate, and community-rooted perspective. I’ve lived in this district for 27 years and am a proud parent of graduates, with one more child about to graduate. I know firsthand the value of a strong public education system and the critical role schools play in shaping children’s futures. I’ve remained committed to growing as a board member, participating in professional development courses, workshops, and leadership opportunities to better serve our community and make informed, equitable decisions. I believe every child, regardless of ability, background, or zip code, deserves an excellent education, a safe and inclusive environment, and the opportunity to thrive. I bring experience, deep community ties, and a strong commitment to equity, transparency, and collaboration.