Veteran assemblywoman Evans retiring

CARSON CITY -- Assembly Speaker Pro Tem Jan Evans, D-Sparks, said Thursday she won't run for re-election to an eighth term because of health reasons.

Recent tests, she said, showed no recurrence of cancer cells since her surgery last spring for ovarian cancer and follow-up chemotherapy treatments. But she said there is a long recovery period needed for this type of illness.

"As much as I have enjoyed my eight years of appointed service and 14 years in elected office, I believe it is time to devote my full time and attention to my recovery, rather than the rigors of a political campaign," she said.

She had left the 1999 session early because of her bout with cancer.

Assembly Speaker Joe Dini, D-Yerington, and Majority Leader Richard Perkins, D-Henderson, both praised her service. Dini said Evans has been an "incredible leader" on such issues as education funding, domestic violence and welfare reform.

"There is no one in either house who can hold a candle to Jan," on these issues, Dini said.

Perkins said Evans, in addition to her leadership skills, was a mentor and role model for new lawmakers.

"I can't imagine how I would have made it through my first session sitting on the Ways and Means Committee if it had not been for Jan," Perkins said. "I have watched her give that same kind of guidance and encouragement to many others."

Evans was first elected in 1986 after serving in a number of appointed positions. She has served as speaker pro temp since 1995 and was a member of the Ways and Means Committee for all of her seven sessions.

She worked for the medical school at the University of Nevada and was involved with numerous civic activities. Her awards include the Thornton Peace Prize, the People's Guardian Award, the Governor's Mental Health Leadership Award and the National Council of State Governments Toll Fellowship.

archive