The candidates for the TRS Board of Control election are listed below by position in the order they will appear on the ballot. The order was determined in a random drawing by the TRS Election Committee. The statements below were provided by the candidates to give voters more information.

Ms. Susan Lockridge - “It has been my pleasure to serve in the position of the Support Personnel No. 1 for the Teacher’s Retirement System Board of Control.   It would be a blessing to be in a position to continue to serve in this post. My background with the school system, various banks and businesses over the years have afforded me the opportunity to have the experience to support the qualifications for this position by working in areas such as Bank Management, Marketing, Compliance, Business Development, and Personnel & Benefit Management. Over the years I have served on many boards for non-profit organizations in the top leadership position and I have acquired the ability to develop plans from my experiences and share information while doing my very best to listen, provide excellent input and makes sound decisions that contribute to the board’s success.”

Mr. Bernard Sanderson - “Having a sound and productive Teachers’ Retirement System (TRS) Board of Control is essential to every member of the education profession in Alabama. Providing decent retirement and health care programs are cornerstones to recruiting and retaining excellent teachers and support professionals for our public schools. Making sure the TRS operates to the highest standards is directly tied to the quality of education we provide the children of this and future generations. Bernard Sanderson asks to serve on the TRS Board to protect the interest and needs of the education support professionals, teachers, postsecondary employees, retirees, and other members of the retirement system. Bernard Sanderson pledges to be an active voice for all educators and will continue to strive to keep the retirement system strong in the face of many contentious decision decisions that face the board.”

Ms. Peggy Mobley - “The TRS Board is one of the largest financial institutions in Alabama. In addition, it is also the Board of Control for health insurance. The success of TRS has an impact on all our lives. We must keep an elected Board and must be able to protect the benefits for ALL educators. I will stand strong on the issues that effect our retirement and health insurance. We are under Attack! I have spent numerous hours lobbying and working with the legislature in my involvement with AEA. Elect a person who will stand and fight for you. Please support Peggy Mobley for Place 1 Retired on the TRS Board.”

Mrs. Sarah Swindle, Incumbent - "I believe the TRS/PEEHIP Boards must remain stable so our retirement benefits and health insurance are sound and well managed. During the last year, the TRS/PEEHIP Boards and staff have had changes in leadership roles; therefore, those of us who have remained constant should be relied on to keep the boards strong. Proven experience is imperative. WHEN EXPERIENCE IS NEEDED, EXPERIENCE COUNTS. I have served on the boards since 1985, first as an active classroom teacher and since 1994 as one of two retired members. I worked closely as Vice Chair with Dr. Hubbert, Chair of the Board until his retirement in December 2011. Currently serving as Chair, my goal is to make sure the board remains focused on what is best for our members and the retirement system. We have to remain strong and protect our benefits. For years we have given up pay raises in order to fund PEEHIP and make sure our health insurance is not hurt in any way. I would ask that you re-elect me because I have the experience and knowledge to continue to serve you. Currently, I am the most experienced person serving on your TRS/PEEHIP Boards. Thanks for your trust and support."