Senator Kiana Sears - Contact Information

Kiana Sears is a Democratic member of the Arizona State Senate, representing District 9. She assumed office on March 31, 2025, after being appointed to fill a vacancy, and her current term will end in January 2027.

Kiana Maria Sears was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1974/1975. She grew up in New Orleans East before moving to Arizona in 1995 with her husband, Ernest. Together, they built a life in Mesa, raising two children, including her daughter Elaissia. Sears’s personal journey from Louisiana to Arizona shaped her perspective on community, resilience, and the importance of civic engagement. Her early experiences instilled in her a strong sense of responsibility to serve others, which later became the foundation of her political career.

Sears pursued higher education at Arizona State University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in interpersonal and intercultural communication with a minor in business administration. She later completed a master’s degree in public administration, further equipping her with the skills to navigate the complexities of governance and public service. Her academic background reflects her commitment to understanding diverse communities and fostering inclusive policies.

Before joining the Arizona State Senate, Sears served on the Mesa Public Schools Governing Board as an at-large member from 2016 to 2025. In this role, she worked to improve educational outcomes, advocate for equity in schools, and ensure that students had access to the resources they needed to succeed. Her leadership on the board highlighted her dedication to education and her ability to bring practical solutions to challenges faced by families and educators.

Sears’s appointment to the Arizona State Senate came after Senator Eva Burch resigned in early 2025. The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors selected Sears from a list of candidates recommended by local Democratic leaders. Her appointment was significant, as District 9, which encompasses parts of Mesa, is considered one of Arizona’s most competitive legislative districts. Sears’s selection reflected confidence in her ability to represent the district effectively and continue advocating for Democratic priorities in a Republican-controlled legislature.

As a senator, Sears has focused on issues such as healthcare, education, and community development. She has emphasized the importance of transparency in government and has been a vocal advocate for policies that promote fairness and opportunity. Her professional background as a corporate relations executive with the Valley of the Sun United Way has given her insight into nonprofit work and the importance of building partnerships between government, businesses, and community organizations. This experience has informed her legislative approach, which prioritizes collaboration and practical solutions.

Sears’s leadership style is characterized by accessibility and empathy. She frequently engages with constituents, listening to their concerns and working to address them through policy initiatives. Her ability to connect with diverse communities has made her a respected figure in Arizona politics. She is known for her commitment to amplifying the voices of underrepresented groups and ensuring that all residents of District 9 have a seat at the table.

Looking ahead, Kiana Sears’s current term will conclude in 2027, but her early tenure has already demonstrated her potential to be a lasting figure in Arizona politics. With her focus on education, healthcare, and community empowerment, she is positioned to continue shaping policy that reflects the values and needs of her constituents. Her story—from her beginnings in New Orleans to her role as a state senator in Arizona—serves as a testament to perseverance, dedication, and the opportunities available through public service.