Gov. Little appoints Mary Lynn Hartwell, Joel Beck to Idaho State Board of Education

Boise, Idaho ~ Boise, Idaho - Governor Brad Little has announced the appointment of Mary Lynn Hartwell and Joel Beck to the State Board of Education. The two new members, both hailing from different cities in Idaho, bring a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to public service.

According to Governor Little, Hartwell and Beck's professional backgrounds and firsthand experience with education and community leadership make them valuable additions to the State Board. He believes that their contributions will help strengthen Idaho's education system and prepare students for success.

State Board chairman Kurt Liebich also expressed his gratitude for the new appointments, stating that the board is looking forward to working with Hartwell and Beck as they remain committed to improving Idaho's schools and universities for future generations.

Hartwell, a longtime community leader in Idaho Falls, brings over four decades of experience in the insurance industry. She retired as executive vice president of The Hartwell Corporation in 2013 but continues to serve on its board of directors. In addition to her professional achievements, Hartwell has also been actively involved in various community organizations such as the College of Eastern Idaho Finance Committee, Civic Center Performing Arts Foundation, United Way of Idaho Falls and Bonneville County, Zonta Club, Idaho Falls Rotary, Idaho Falls Arts Council, and Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center. She was also recognized with the 2026 John D. Hansen Award for Civility and Public Service from the City Club of Idaho Falls. Hartwell is a graduate of Idaho Falls High School.

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Expressing her honor at being appointed to this role, Hartwell stated that she looks forward to working with her fellow board members in supporting students, families, and educators across the state.

Beck is a lifelong resident of Idaho who brings a diverse set of skills to his new role on the State Board. He earned a bachelor's degree in communication from the University of Utah before obtaining his law degree from the University of Idaho in 2002. With over two decades of experience practicing law in Idaho, Beck is currently a partner and owner of Ruchti & Beck Law Offices in Pocatello. He also serves on the Sixth Judicial District Magistrate Commission and the boards of Friends of the Children-Eastern Idaho and the Idaho Trial Lawyers Association. In the past, he has also served as a trustee for the American Falls School District and was a member of the Community Council of Idaho board.

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As someone who has personally experienced the benefits of Idaho's public schools and served as a school board trustee, Beck understands the importance of providing students with a strong education and opportunities for success. He expressed his honor at being chosen to serve in this capacity.

Hartwell and Beck will be replacing Bill Gilbert and Cindy Siddoway, whose terms on the board have expired. The State Board is confident that their contributions will help further their mission to improve education in Idaho for all students.

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