Consedine Confirmed as First Woman Secretary/Parlimentarian of PA Senate

Megan Totino Consedine was unanimously confirmed today as the Secretary/Parliamentarian for the Pennsylvania State Senate. Totino Consedine is the first woman to serve as Secretary/Parliamentarian of the Pennsylvania State Senate, according to Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati (R-Jefferson).

As an elected officer of the Senate, the Secretary/Parliamentarian supervises an extensive array of offices and services essential to the day-to-day operations of the Senate, including overseeing numerous legislative, financial and administrative functions. The Senate Secretary is also integral to the process of Senate Session and oversees a staff of approximately 80 Senate employees, including those in the Secretary's Office, Senate Library, bill room and page room.

"In Megan Consedine, I feel confident that we have found the right individual who will serve with integrity, independence and a commitment to excellence," Scarnati said. "Serving as Secretary of the Senate requires a vast knowledge of the legislative process, respect for the institution and the ability to be fair and even-handed. Megan has clearly demonstrated that she possesses these important qualities, during the last month-and-a-half that she has served as Acting Senate Secretary."

Scarnati said the Senate conducted a rigorous three-month search for the individual to fill this vital position, and interviewed numerous qualified candidates. "Megan Totino Consedine stood out because of her experience in both the executive and judicial branches and her extensive resume that demonstrates a wide range of knowledge and independence."

"I am humbled by the opportunity to serve the Senate and excited to take on this new challenge," Totino Consedine said. "My goal will be to continue the policy of openness and cooperation that the Senate leaders have established."

Totino Consedine most recently served as a Deputy General Counsel in the Pennsylvania Governor's Office, where she worked as a legal counsel to several state departments and agencies. She also previously served as an Assistant Counsel to the Department of the Navy and a Special Assistant to former Governor Tom Ridge. In addition, Totino Consedine has taught at Widener University School of Law and Harrisburg Area Community College.

Totino Consedine received her Bachelor's degree from the University of Delaware and her law degree from Widener University School of Law in Harrisburg.

"I know that Megan will serve with integrity and distinction and bring her unique style and attributes to this very important role," Scarnati said. "I look forward to working with her as we continue to make this chamber an open and bipartisan institution."

Courtesy of Senate Republican Communications

The news leader of the Twin Tiers ...
since 1947