MEDFORD, MA – An area mom announced her first-time run for the state house Thursday, challenging Rep. Sean Garballey for the 23rd Middlesex District seat. Arlington resident Lori Lennon, who is the mother to an 8-year-old daughter, said she is ready to lead the district with a "new voice and fresh perspective."

Lennon is the director of communications for the college of science at Northeastern University and volunteers on Arlington's Equal Opportunity Advisory Committee, the Superintendent's Diversity Task Force and the Diversity and Inclusion Committee at Northeastern's college of science. "I will lend my voice and experiences to the issues that affect all of our families," Lennon said in a statement. "Whether it be grappling with affordable childcare, managing student loan debt, or working to make housing affordable for our young families and seniors, I will address these struggles head on. With your help, we will find creative and innovative solutions to the issues that matter to us most."

Garballey has represented the district, which includes parts of Medford and Arlington, for nearly a decade. Lennon will hold her first meet and greet at Kickstand Cafe on Feb. 17 from 2-3 p.m. She said she is excited to meet with residents, hear their concerns and "continue to make the community stronger together.