Jennifer Summers Antel of Wayland has announced she will be a candidate for state representative in the 72nd District in the August Republican primary election.

Antel, a longtime Wayland City Council member and substitute teacher and coach in the Wayland school system, will run against incumbent Republican Steven Johnson of Wayland, who was first elected in August and November of 2016.

Antel posted on Facebook today, “I filed paperwork in Lansing today to seek the Republican nomination for the 72nd District State House seat. I’ve prayed long and hard and truly believe this is the path for me.”

She now serves as mayor pro tem for the city, thereby taking over functions for Mayor Tim Bala when he is not present. She also has been active on plans for a Rails to Trails non-motorized recreational trail effort, formerly was a member of the Wayland City Planning Commission and has been active with the Downtown Development Authority.

Antel was named Middle School Coach of the Year in by the Michigan Track Coaches Association (MITCA) and she and husband Ray have been intensely involved in cross-country and track and with the Wayland Road Runners club.

She and Ray have five children, all of whom have attended or graduated from Wayland High School. They have been active in the cross-country, track, swimming and theater programs at WHS.

A special campaign kickoff event including a limited menu for dinner is planned for 6 p.m. Thursday, March 22, at the Jayda Gale Distillery on South Main Street downtown. She and family members will be on hand to meet and greet well wishers and the curious.

The 72nd District includes the City of Wayland, the City of Kentwood and Dorr, Leighton, Gaines and Wayland Townships.